Licensed Practical Nurse in Georgia

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

Median annual salary
$58,490
trending_down -6.2% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Georgia.

engineering
20,800

Jobs (GA)

monitoring Stable
+2.6%

10-yr job growth

payments
$240

Licensing fees

schedule
Varies (application processing 4-6 weeks)

Time to complete

route How to become a licensed practical nurse in Georgia

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Georgia, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The licensing body is the Georgia Board of Nursing. A criminal background check is required as part of the application process, and Georgia participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing for multistate licensure. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $44,500
25th percentile $50,400
50th (median) $58,490
75th percentile $64,280
90th (experienced) $73,040

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

checklist Georgia requirements

Licensing bodyGeorgia Board of Nursing
State license Required
EducationCompletion of a state-approved practical nursing program
ExamNCLEX-PN ($200)
Application fee$40
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing education20.0 hours per cycle
NotesA criminal background check is required. Minimum age not explicitly stated but implied by education requirements. Must pass NCLEX-PN within 3 years of graduation. If applying by endorsement, must have 500 hours of licensed practice within the four years immediately preceding the application date, or proof of graduation from an approved nursing education program within four years, or completion of a Georgia Board of Nursing approved reentry program.

Source: Georgia 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_circleGeorgia 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

How do I become a licensed practical nurse in Georgia? expand_more
To become a licensed practical nurse in Georgia, you need to complete the required education (Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program), pass the NCLEX-PN, and submit your application ($40 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a licensed practical nurse in Georgia? expand_more
Yes, Georgia requires a state license to practice as a licensed practical nurse. The licensing body is Georgia Board of Nursing. You must pass the NCLEX-PN.
How much does a licensed practical nurse make in Georgia? expand_more
The median licensed practical nurse salary in Georgia is $58,490 per year. That's 6% below the national median of $62,340. New licensed practical nurses start around $44,500; seasoned professionals can reach $73,040.
How expensive is licensed practical nurse licensing in Georgia? expand_more
Costs include exam fee ($200) and application fee ($40). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
What's the timeline to become a licensed practical nurse in Georgia? expand_more
In Georgia, becoming a licensed practical nurse generally takes Varies (application processing 4-6 weeks), accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.
What's required to renew a licensed practical nurse license in Georgia? expand_more
To keep your license active, Georgia mandates 20.0 CE hours every 2.0 years.

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