Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- 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
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$53,930 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 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 Louisiana
With a median salary of 53,930, Licensed Practical Nurses in Louisiana earn 13% below the national median of $62,340. Louisiana ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$53,930Hourly estimate
$25.9313% below national median
Difference: -$8,410
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#45 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $53,930 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $51,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $48,850 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $60,150 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 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
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners
131 Airline Drive, Suite 301, Metairie, LA, 70001
Phone: 5048385791
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $97,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $56,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $38,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Louisiana is 53,930. Salaries range from $42,860 (10th percentile) to $64,240 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Louisiana earn 13% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 53,930.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 18,630 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The licensing agency is Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals / Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.lsbpne.com/.