Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Tennessee
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Tennessee, aspiring nurses must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The application process involves submitting an online application to the Tennessee Board of Nursing with a fee of $175, providing a passport-style photo, and undergoing a criminal background check. Tennessee is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing LPNs from other compact states to practice there, while those from non-compact states can apply for licensure by endorsement.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Tennessee
| Detail | Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Tennessee Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $175 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. A criminal background check is required. Continued competence must be demonstrated for renewal through various options, including 5 contact hours of CE (10 if not practicing), national certification, employer evaluation, peer evaluation, patient/family evaluation, contract renewal, self-evaluation, nursing goals document, volunteer nursing, nursing student education, published nursing article, refresher course, comprehensive orientation, 2 hours of nursing credit, or retaking NCLEX. Foreign graduates have additional requirements for credentials evaluation and English language proficiency. |
Source: Tennessee Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Tennessee
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Tennessee is $54,530 per year, which is 12.5% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,680 |
| 25th | $46,370 |
| 50th (median) | $54,530 |
| 75th | $60,410 |
| 90th (experienced) | $65,140 |
Tennessee employs approximately 19,140 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 Tennessee Worth It?
Factors to consider: Tennessee's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.