Licensed Practical Nurse in Florida

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for FL. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary
$60,080
trending_down -3.6% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Florida.

engineering
36,470

Jobs (FL)

monitoring Stable
+2.6%

10-yr job growth

payments
$375

Licensing fees

schedule
12-18 months

Time to complete

route How to become a licensed practical nurse in Florida

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Florida, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. The licensing body is the Florida Board of Nursing. Applicants must also undergo a Level II background check and drug screening, and be at least 18 years old. Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which simplifies practice for LPNs from other compact states, while those from non-compact states can apply for licensure by endorsement.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $48,970
25th percentile $53,430
50th (median) $60,080
75th percentile $63,260
90th (experienced) $72,950

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Florida. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Florida requirements

Licensing bodyFlorida Board of Nursing
State license Required
EducationCompletion of a state-approved practical nursing program
ExamNCLEX-PN ($200)
Application fee$175
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing education24.0 hours per cycle
NotesMinimum age of 18. Requires a Level II background check and drug screening. CE requirements include specific topics like human trafficking, domestic violence (every third renewal, in addition to the 24 hours), medical errors, Florida laws and rules, and recognizing impairment in the workplace (every other renewal). A one-time HIV/AIDS course is required for the first renewal.

Source: Florida Board of Nursing

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth
+2.6%
Average
Annual openings
54,400
Nationwide per year
Total employment
651,400
Nationwide
neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -0.51/1.00

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

  • check_circleFlorida license required — clearer credential signal to employers
  • check_circleLow AI disruption risk
psychology
Wondering if a licensed practical nurse career is the right fit?
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Frequently asked questions

What's required to work as a licensed practical nurse in Florida? expand_more
The path to licensed practical nurse licensure in Florida: complete the required education (Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program), pass the NCLEX-PN, and submit your application ($175 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a licensed practical nurse in Florida? expand_more
Yes, Florida requires a state license to practice as a licensed practical nurse. The licensing body is Florida Board of Nursing. You must pass the NCLEX-PN.
What is the average licensed practical nurse salary in Florida? expand_more
In Florida, the median pay for licensed practical nurses comes to $60,080/year. That's roughly in line with the $62,340 national median. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $48,970, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $72,950.
What are the fees to become a licensed practical nurse in Florida? expand_more
Costs include exam fee ($200) and application fee ($175). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse in Florida? expand_more
The typical timeline in Florida is 12-18 months. This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.
How many CE hours do licensed practical nurses need in Florida? expand_more
Florida requires 24.0 hours of continuing education every 2.0 years to maintain your licensed practical nurse license.

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