Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Practical Nurse in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$66,030 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 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 Illinois
With a median salary of 66,030, Licensed Practical Nurses in Illinois earn 6% above the national median of $62,340. Illinois ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$66,030Hourly estimate
$31.756% above national median
Difference: +$3,690
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#16 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $66,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $61,040 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $59,460 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $59,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $58,450 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $63,690 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $84,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $67,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $66,940 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,430 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Illinois?
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 exams are required for Licensed Practical Nurses in Illinois?
Illinois lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Practical Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Illinois?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Illinois is 66,030. Salaries range from $51,150 (10th percentile) to $83,940 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Illinois earn 6% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 66,030.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 18,230 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Practical Nurses in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.