Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in District of Columbia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DC
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in District of Columbia
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the District of Columbia, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The licensing body is the District of Columbia Board of Nursing. A criminal background check is required for initial licensure and at every two-year renewal. The District of Columbia does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, but offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs licensed in other states.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in District of Columbia
| Detail | District of Columbia |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | District of Columbia Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $237 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 18.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | A criminal background check is required for initial licensure and at every two-year renewal. CE must include 2 hours on LGBTQ topics or cultural awareness, and 3 hours in public health topics as specified by D.C. Health. First-time renewals are exempt from CE requirements. The District of Columbia is not a Nurse Licensure Compact state. |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in District of Columbia
The median licensed practical nurse salary in District of Columbia is $70,420 per year, which is 13.0% above the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $58,500 |
| 25th | $64,510 |
| 50th (median) | $70,420 |
| 75th | $78,270 |
| 90th (experienced) | $81,410 |
District of Columbia employs approximately 1,170 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 District of Columbia Worth It?
Factors to consider: District of Columbia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.