Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New York

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NY

Median Salary
$64,030
New York (2024)
National Median
$62,340
All states
License Fees
$343
Exam + application
Time to Complete
1-2 years
From start to licensed

How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New York

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New York, you must be licensed and registered by the New York State Education Department (NYSED), Office of the Professions. Key steps include graduating from an NYSED-approved LPN program or an equivalent, passing the NCLEX-PN exam, and submitting an application with a fee of $143. New York does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, but licensure by endorsement is available for those licensed in other states who meet New York's specific requirements. Additionally, applicants must complete mandatory coursework in Infection Control and Child Abuse Identification.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in New York

DetailNew York
Licensing BodyNew York State Education Department, Office of the Professions - Nursing
State License Required Yes
EducationCompletion of a New York State Education Department (NYSED)-approved LPN program or an equivalent program in another U.S. state/territory or military program deemed satisfactory by NYSED. Graduates of general RN programs are also eligible.
Exam NCLEX-PN ($200)
Application Fee$143
RenewalEvery 3.0 years
NotesMinimum age 17 years old. Must be of good moral character and have a high school diploma or GED. Requires approved coursework in Infection Control (upon initial licensure and every 4 years thereafter) and Child Abuse Identification (one-time requirement for initial licensure, unless graduated from a NYS-registered program on or after September 1, 1990). A background check is not required for licensure by endorsement, but all criminal convictions and disciplinary actions must be reported. A limited permit is available for those who have not yet taken the NCLEX-PN.

Source: New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions - Nursing

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in New York

The median licensed practical nurse salary in New York is $64,030 per year, which is 2.7% above the national median of $62,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$51,490
25th$58,350
50th (median)$64,030
75th$74,460
90th (experienced)$80,400

New York employs approximately 40,720 licensed practical nurses.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook

10-Year Growth
+2.6%
Average
Annual Openings
54.4
Nationwide per year
Total Employment
651.4
Nationwide

AI Impact on Licensed Practical Nurses

Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.51/1.00)

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

Is Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in New York Worth It?

Factors to consider: New York's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a licensed practical nurse in New York?
To become a licensed practical nurse in New York, you need to complete the required education (Completion of a New York State Education Department (NYSED)-approved LPN program or an equivalent program in another U.S. state/territory or military program deemed satisfactory by NYSED. Graduates of general RN programs are also eligible.), pass the NCLEX-PN, and submit your application ($143 fee).
Does New York require licensed practical nurse licensure?
New York mandates state licensure for licensed practical nurses. New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions - Nursing oversees the process, which includes passing the NCLEX-PN.
What is the average licensed practical nurse salary in New York?
In New York, the median pay for licensed practical nurses comes to $64,030/year. That's roughly in line with the $62,340 national median. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $51,490, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $80,400.
How much does it cost to become a licensed practical nurse in New York?
Costs include exam fee ($200) and application fee ($143). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse in New York?
Most candidates in New York complete the process in 1-2 years, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.

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