Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Oregon
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for OR
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Oregon
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Oregon, you must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The Oregon State Board of Nursing handles licensing, and the application process typically takes 3-6 weeks. Oregon does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, so LPNs from other states must apply for licensure by endorsement. A criminal background check and specific continuing education requirements, including pain management and cultural competency courses, are also mandatory.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Oregon
| Detail | Oregon |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Oregon State Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $195 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 20.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | A one-time, 7-hour pain management course (including a 1-hour Oregon Pain Management Commission module) and a 2-hour cultural competency course are required for initial licensure/first renewal. Starting January 1, 2026, practice hours will no longer be required for renewal. Beginning January 1, 2028, LPNs will need to provide evidence of 20 hours of continuing education every two years for renewal, in addition to the pain management and cultural competency requirements. A criminal background check is mandatory. Minimum age of 18 years old. |
Source: Oregon State Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Oregon
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Oregon is $76,570 per year, which is 22.8% above the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $62,980 |
| 25th | $67,750 |
| 50th (median) | $76,570 |
| 75th | $82,390 |
| 90th (experienced) | $94,880 |
Oregon employs approximately 4,340 licensed practical nurses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook
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 Oregon Worth It?
Factors to consider: Oregon's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.