Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in West 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 West 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
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,850 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 49,850, Licensed Practical Nurses in West Virginia earn 20% below the national median of $62,340. West Virginia ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,850Hourly estimate
$23.9720% below national median
Difference: -$12,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#48 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $49,850 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $62,010 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $69,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $62,310 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $58,450 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 50 | 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. |
| Maryland | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Ohio | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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
LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045583572
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,240 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,330 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in West 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 West Virginia?
West 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 West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in West Virginia is 49,850. Salaries range from $40,290 (10th percentile) to $64,200 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in West Virginia earn 20% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 49,850.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 6,330 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to West 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES. Review agency details at http://www.lpnboard.state.wv.us/.