Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Iowa
2026 data Iowa board official source

Iowa Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Provides basic patient care under supervision. Requires NCLEX-PN exam.

What the Iowa data shows for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

Iowa sets the entry bar for licensed practical nurse (lpn)s at 1,095 training hours and a passing score on NCLEX-PN. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Iowa's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $99, with renewal running $69 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 24 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

For licensed practical nurse (lpn)s, the reciprocity picture is: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Iowa

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,095 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$99
Renewal Fee
$69
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) All Iowa licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Iowa licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa? ▼
In Iowa, the license path calls for 1095 education/training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-PN, and a $99 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa? ▼
Iowa licenses licensed practical nurse (lpn)s who complete its requirements (1095 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Iowa licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to Iowa from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for licensed practical nurse (lpn)s: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Iowa licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Iowa require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing? ▼
Yes, Iowa requires a criminal background check as part of the licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa? ▼
Iowa ties continued licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $69 renewal fee.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.