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

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

Maryland sets the entry bar for licensed practical nurse (lpn)s at 1,331 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 Maryland's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

The initial price tag is $158, and renewal costs $116 every 2 years. 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 Maryland

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,331 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$158
Renewal Fee
$116
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 Maryland licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Maryland licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maryland? ▼
Maryland requires 1331 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-PN), and an initial fee of $158. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maryland? ▼
To become a licensed licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Maryland, you must meet the state's requirements including 1331 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Maryland licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to Maryland 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 Maryland licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Maryland require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensing process in Maryland. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maryland? ▼
Maryland ties continued licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $116 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.