Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
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: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Nursing Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$62,010 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 62,010, Licensed Practical Nurses in Pennsylvania earn 1% below the national median of $62,340. Pennsylvania ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$62,010Hourly estimate
$29.811% below national median
Difference: -$330
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $62,010 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $64,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $71,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $66,090 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $69,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $49,850 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $60,990 | Degree required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 54 | 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. |
| New Jersey | 50 | 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. |
| Maryland | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Nursing Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 8333672762
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Pennsylvania is 62,010. Salaries range from $48,890 (10th percentile) to $76,890 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Pennsylvania earn 1% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 62,010.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 31,140 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to Pennsylvania from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Nursing Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Nursing/Pages/default.aspx.