Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in Iowa, 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 Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$59,460 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 59,460, Licensed Practical Nurses in Iowa earn 5% below the national median of $62,340. Iowa ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$59,460Hourly estimate
$28.595% below national median
Difference: -$2,880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $59,460 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $60,870 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $61,040 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $66,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $59,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $60,740 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $49,170 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 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. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50325
Phone: 5152814822
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa 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 Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Iowa is 59,460. Salaries range from $48,510 (10th percentile) to $75,320 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Iowa earn 5% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 59,460.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 5,520 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/i-need/licenses/medical/nursing-professional-midwifery.