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

Illinois 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 Illinois data shows for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

Illinois sets the entry bar for licensed practical nurse (lpn)s at 1,459 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 Illinois's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

Budget $190 to get started, plus $142 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

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

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,459 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$190
Renewal Fee
$142
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 Illinois licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Illinois licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Illinois? ▼
In Illinois, the license path calls for 1459 education/training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-PN, and a $190 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Illinois? ▼
Certification as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Illinois means clearing the state's checklist: 1459 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Illinois licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to Illinois from another state? ▼
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licenses generally reciprocate as follows: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Illinois licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Illinois require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensing in Illinois. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Illinois? ▼
To stay licensed as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Illinois, plan on 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $142.

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.