Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Practical Nurse in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,170 median (24% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 77,170, Licensed Practical Nurses in California earn 24% above the national median of $62,340. California ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$77,170Hourly estimate
$37.1024% above national median
Difference: +$14,830
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#4 of 50 statesfor Licensed Practical Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 79,700 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 77,940 |
| #3 | Alaska | 77,670 |
| #4 | California | 77,170 |
| #5 | Oregon | 76,570 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Practical Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $77,170 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $76,570 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $73,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $74,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 205, Sacramento, CA, 95833
Phone: 9162637800
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in California?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in California is 77,170. Salaries range from $62,390 (10th percentile) to $99,840 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in California compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in California earn 24% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 77,170.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in California?
California employs approximately 79,610 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Practical Nurses in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Review agency details at https://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/.