Licensed Practical Nurse in Texas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TX. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Texas.
Jobs (TX)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a licensed practical nurse in Texas
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Texas, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Applicants must also submit an application to the Texas Board of Nursing, pay the associated fees, and pass a criminal background check and the Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam. Texas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs with a multi-state license to practice in other NLC states.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Texas. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Texas requirements
| Licensing body | Texas Board of Nursing |
| State license | Required |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application fee | $75 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 20.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Application fee includes a criminal background check with fingerprinting. Must pass a Texas Nursing Jurisprudence Exam. CE must include 2 hours on nursing jurisprudence and ethics every third renewal period, and a human trafficking prevention course for direct patient care. Other specific CE requirements may apply based on practice area (e.g., geriatrics, forensic evidence collection). |
Source: Texas Board of Nursing
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleTexas license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk