2026 data Ohio board official source

Ohio Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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

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

Ohio sets the entry bar for licensed practical nurse (lpn)s at 1,257 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 Ohio's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

Budget $139 to get started, plus $101 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 Ohio

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,257 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$139
Renewal Fee
$101
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Ohio licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Ohio?
Ohio's requirements cover 1257 hours of education or training, the NCLEX-PN exam, and an initial fee of $139. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Ohio?
Certification as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Ohio means clearing the state's checklist: 1257 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Ohio licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to Ohio 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 Ohio licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Ohio require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing?
Yes, Ohio 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 Ohio?
Ohio ties continued licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $101 renewal fee.

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