Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in Massachusetts, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Practical Nurse in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Registration in Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,560 median (23% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Massachusetts eligibility requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Registration in Nursing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of $76,560, Licensed Practical Nurses in Massachusetts earn 23% above the national median of $62,340. Massachusetts ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$76,560Hourly estimate
$36.8123% above national median
Difference: +$14,220
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#6 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $76,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $74,660 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $64,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $64,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $69,130 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $77,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Hampshire | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Vermont | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Rhode Island | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Registration in Nursing
239 Causeway St., Suite 500, 5th Floor, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 8004140168
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $135,250 | Degree required | 1-18 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | 2 years |
| Athletic Trainer | $63,720 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Massachusetts?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Licensed Practical Nurses in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Massachusetts is $76,560. Salaries range from $62,990 (10th percentile) to $90,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Massachusetts earn 23% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of $76,560.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 15,210 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to Massachusetts from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Practical Nurses in Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Registration in Nursing. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/programs/hcq/dhpl/nursing/about/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Practical Nurse license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.