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

Louisiana Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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

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

Louisiana sets the entry bar for licensed practical nurse (lpn)s at 1,365 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 Louisiana's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

Budget $166 to get started, plus $123 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Louisiana

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,365 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$166
Renewal Fee
$123
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 Louisiana licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Louisiana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Louisiana? ▼
In Louisiana, the license path calls for 1365 education/training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-PN, and a $166 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Louisiana? ▼
Certification as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Louisiana means clearing the state's checklist: 1365 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Louisiana licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to Louisiana from another state? ▼
For licensed practical nurse (lpn)s, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Louisiana licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Louisiana require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing? ▼
Louisiana does require a background check before issuing a licensed practical nurse (lpn) license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Louisiana? ▼
Louisiana ties continued licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $123 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.