2026 data West Virginia board official source

West 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 West Virginia data shows for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)s

To practice as a licensed practical nurse (lpn) in West Virginia, the state licensing board requires 1,142 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NCLEX-PN. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under West Virginia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Diploma or Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $110, with renewal running $78 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 24 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

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

Licensing Requirements in West Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Diploma or Associate Degree
1,142 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-PN
Required
Initial License Fee
$110
Renewal Fee
$78
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 West Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in West Virginia?
West Virginia's requirements cover 1142 hours of education or training, the NCLEX-PN exam, and an initial fee of $110. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in West Virginia?
West Virginia licenses licensed practical nurse (lpn)s who complete its requirements (1142 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the West Virginia licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does West Virginia require a background check for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for licensed practical nurse (lpn) licensing in West 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 West Virginia?
Licensed licensed practical nurse (lpn)s in West Virginia must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $78.

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