Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Texas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TX
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Texas
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Texas, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Applicants must also submit an application to the Texas Board of Nursing, pay the associated fees, and pass a criminal background check and the Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam. Texas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs with a multi-state license to practice in other NLC states.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in Texas
| Detail | Texas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Texas Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 20.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Application fee includes a criminal background check with fingerprinting. Must pass a Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam. CE must include 2 hours on nursing jurisprudence and ethics every third renewal period, and a human trafficking prevention course for direct patient care. Other specific CE requirements may apply based on practice area (e.g., geriatrics, forensic evidence collection). |
Source: Texas Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in Texas
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Texas is $60,150 per year, which is 3.5% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $47,820 |
| 25th | $52,530 |
| 50th (median) | $60,150 |
| 75th | $64,160 |
| 90th (experienced) | $73,610 |
Texas employs approximately 59,060 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 Texas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Texas's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.