Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$58,450 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 58,450, Licensed Practical Nurses in Kentucky earn 6% below the national median of $62,340. Kentucky ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$58,450Hourly estimate
$28.106% below national median
Difference: -$3,890
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#42 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Ohio | $60,990 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $49,850 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $62,310 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $54,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $59,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $66,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Ohio | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | 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
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Nursing
312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 300, Louisville, KY, 40222
Phone: 5022719759
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Kentucky is 58,450. Salaries range from $46,230 (10th percentile) to $69,310 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Kentucky earn 6% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 58,450.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 9,190 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://kbn.ky.gov/.