2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License Requirements

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

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

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

Becoming a licensed licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Virginia means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 1,203 training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-PN, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Virginia regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $126, with renewal running $91 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 Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,203 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$126
Renewal Fee
$91
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 Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia?
Virginia requires 1203 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-PN), and an initial fee of $126. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia?
Certification as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Virginia means clearing the state's checklist: 1203 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Virginia licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to Virginia 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 Virginia licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Virginia require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensing in Virginia. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Virginia?
To stay licensed as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in Virginia, plan on 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $91.

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