Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
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: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Law and Public Safety • Division of Consumer Affairs • Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$71,180 median (14% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#10 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 New Jersey
With a median salary of 71,180, Licensed Practical Nurses in New Jersey earn 14% above the national median of $62,340. New Jersey ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$71,180Hourly estimate
$34.2214% above national median
Difference: +$8,840
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#10 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $71,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $64,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $62,010 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $66,090 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 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
Department of Law and Public Safety • Division of Consumer Affairs • Board of Nursing
PO Box 45010, Newark, NJ, 7101
Phone: 9735046503
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $101,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,270 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,070 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in New Jersey is 71,180. Salaries range from $60,110 (10th percentile) to $79,980 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in New Jersey earn 14% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 71,180.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 15,210 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Law and Public Safety / Division of Consumer Affairs / Board of Nursing. Review agency details at http://www.state.nj.us/lps/ca/medical/nursing.htm.