Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in Virginia, 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 Virginia
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
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$62,310 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 62,310, Licensed Practical Nurses in Virginia earn 0% below the national median of $62,340. Virginia ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$62,310Hourly estimate
$29.960% above national median
Difference: -$30
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#22 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $62,310 | 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 |
| Kentucky | $58,450 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $54,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $61,380 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | 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. |
| North Carolina | 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 Health Professions • Virginia Board of Nursing
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043674515
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| Audiologist | $85,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia 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 Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in Virginia is 62,310. Salaries range from $48,160 (10th percentile) to $77,450 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in Virginia earn 0% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 62,310.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 16,710 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing/.