✓ Universal LPN Program Requirements (All States)
- ✓High school diploma or GED (required nationwide)
- ✓Minimum age: 18 years old (some states allow 17 with parental consent)
- ✓Criminal background check (drug-related or violent felonies may disqualify you)
- ✓Immunizations: Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, Tdap, annual flu shot, TB test
- ✓Drug screening (negative test required for clinical rotations)
- ✓CPR certification (BLS for Healthcare Providers)
- ✓Entrance exam: TEAS, HESI, or Kaplan (varies by school)
Before you can start LPN training, you need to meet both admission requirements (to get into a program) and licensing requirements (to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam after graduation).
Requirements vary slightly by state and school, but this guide covers the universal standardsplus state-specific variations so you know exactly what you need.
Part 1: LPN Program Admission Requirements
These are the requirements to get accepted into an LPN program (before you even start training).
1. High School Diploma or GED
Required in all 50 states. You must have completed high school or earned a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
💡 What if I didn't finish high school?
You can take the GED exam (4 subjects: Math, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts). Many community colleges offer free GED prep classes. The exam costs $30-$150 depending on your state.
2. Minimum Age Requirement
Most states require you to be 18 years old to apply to LPN programs. A few states allow 17-year-olds to enroll with parental consent.
States that allow age 17 (with consent):
Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia
Most states: Age 18 minimum
You must be 18 by the time you start clinical rotations (even if you're 17 when you apply).
3. Entrance Exam (TEAS, HESI, or Kaplan)
Most LPN programs require an entrance exam to assess your readiness for nursing coursework. Common tests include:
TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
Most popular test. Covers reading, math, science, and English language. Score range: 0-100. Most programs want 60-70+ to be competitive.
Cost: $115 | Time: 3.5 hours | Format: Computer-based
HESI A2 (Health Education Systems, Inc.)
Similar to TEAS. Tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, math, anatomy & physiology, biology, chemistry.
Cost: $40-$70 | Time: 4 hours | Format: Computer-based
Kaplan Nursing Admission Test
Less common. Tests reading, math, writing, and science. Some schools use this instead of TEAS/HESI.
Cost: $80-$100 | Time: 3 hours | Format: Computer-based
💡 Study Tips:
- • Use official TEAS/HESI study guides ($30-$50 on Amazon)
- • Take free practice tests online (Mometrix, Kaplan, Union Test Prep)
- • Study for 2-4 weeks before your test date
- • You can usually retake the exam if you score too low (costs extra)
4. Prerequisite Courses (Some Schools)
Some programs require you to complete certain courses before applying:
⚠️ Important:
Not all schools require prerequisites! Community college LPN programs often do, but vocational schools usually don't. Check each school's website or call admissions.
5. Criminal Background Check
All students must pass a background check before starting clinical rotations. Hospitals and nursing homes won't allow students with certain criminal records.
🚨 Disqualifying Offenses (Usually Permanent):
- • Violent crimes (assault, domestic violence, murder)
- • Sexual offenses
- • Drug trafficking or distribution
- • Elder abuse or child abuse
- • Healthcare fraud
⚠️ Case-by-Case Review:
- • Misdemeanor drug possession (especially if 5+ years ago)
- • DUI/DWI (depends on how recent and how many)
- • Theft or property crimes
- • Minor offenses from when you were a juvenile
Tip: If you have a record, talk to the program director BEFORE applying. Some states allow you to petition for a "moral character review."
6. Drug Screening
You'll be drug tested before starting clinical rotations and often randomly throughout the program.
What's tested:
- • Marijuana (even in states where it's legal!)
- • Cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP
- • Prescription medications (you must disclose with a valid prescription)
Important: A positive drug test = immediate dismissal from the program in most cases. No refunds.
7. Immunizations & Health Requirements
Clinical sites require proof of immunizations to protect patients and students from infectious diseases.
Required Immunizations (All States):
💉 Hepatitis B
3-dose series (can start during program)
💉 MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
2 doses or proof of immunity
💉 Varicella (Chickenpox)
2 doses or proof of immunity
💉 Tdap (Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis)
Updated within last 10 years
💉 Annual Flu Shot
Required every year during flu season
🔬 TB Test (Tuberculosis)
Skin test or chest X-ray (annual)
💰 Cost-Saving Tip:
Many county health departments offer immunizations for FREE or low-cost ($10-$30). Don't pay your doctor $300+ for the same shots!
8. CPR Certification (BLS for Healthcare Providers)
You must have current CPR certification from the American Heart Association (AHA) before starting clinicals.
✅ Correct Certification:
"BLS for Healthcare Providers" (also called "BLS CPR") from the American Heart Association. This is different from basic CPR for the general public!
❌ NOT Accepted:
Red Cross CPR, online-only CPR courses, or expired certifications. Must be in-person, hands-on training.
💵 Where to Get It:
- • American Heart Association training centers ($50-$80)
- • Community colleges often offer classes ($40-$60)
- • Local hospitals (sometimes free for students)
- • Valid for 2 years (you'll need to renew before it expires)
Part 2: State-Specific Requirement Variations
While most requirements are universal, some states have unique rules:
California (LVN Programs)
LVN = LPN- •Fingerprint clearance required (FBI + CA DOJ background check - $80)
- •COVID-19 vaccination required for clinical sites
- •High school transcript must include biology or anatomy
Texas
- •Allows age 17 to start program (must be 18 for NCLEX)
- •Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test required at community colleges
- •Social Security number required for enrollment
Florida
- •Level 2 background screening (fingerprints + statewide check)
- •Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency required
- •Some programs require CNA certification before LPN admission
New York
- •Child Abuse Registry clearance required
- •Physical exam required before clinical rotations
- •Hepatitis B declination form if you refuse vaccination
Part 3: NCLEX-PN Eligibility Requirements (After Graduation)
After completing your LPN program, you must meet these requirements to take the NCLEX-PN licensing exam:
1. Graduate from an Approved Program
Your school must be approved by your state's Board of Nursing. Always verify accreditation before enrolling!
2. Submit Application to State Board
Apply for NCLEX authorization through your state board ($50-$200 fee). Includes another background check.
3. Pay NCLEX Exam Fee
$200 registration fee (paid to Pearson VUE, the testing company)
4. Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam
Computerized exam with 85-150 questions. Pass rate: ~85% nationally for first-time test-takers.
5. Apply for State License
Once you pass NCLEX, apply for your official LPN license ($50-$150 depending on state). Renewed every 1-2 years.
Total Cost of Meeting Requirements (Before Tuition)
💰 Budget for these expenses BEFORE your first day of class:
Tip: Spread these costs over 2-3 months before your program starts. Use county health departments for cheaper immunizations and TB tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become an LPN with a felony on my record?
It depends. Violent crimes, sexual offenses, drug trafficking, and healthcare fraud are typicallypermanent disqualifications. Non-violent crimes (theft, old drug possession charges) may be allowed depending on how long ago they occurred and your state's Board of Nursing policies. Contact your state board for a "moral character determination" before enrolling in a program.
Do I need to be a CNA before becoming an LPN?
No, but it helps! Most LPN programs do NOT require CNA certification. However, having CNA experience can make you a stronger candidate (especially for competitive programs) and gives you a head start in understanding patient care. Some students work as CNAs part-time while in LPN school.
What if I failed the entrance exam?
Most schools let you retake the exam after a waiting period (usually 30-90 days). You'll need to pay the exam fee again ($70-$115). Use that time to study harder! Consider buying a TEAS/HESI study guide and taking practice tests. Some community colleges offer free test prep workshops.
Can I get financial aid to cover entrance exams and immunizations?
Usually no. Financial aid (Pell Grants, loans) typically covers tuition and fees AFTER you're enrolled. However, some schools have emergency funds or scholarships to help low-income students cover pre-admission costs. Ask your admissions office. Also check local workforce development programs—some states offer grants for healthcare training preparation.
Do immunization requirements apply to online LPN programs?
Yes! Even "online" LPN programs require in-person clinical rotations (200-400 hours). Hospitals and nursing homes will not let you enter their facilities without proof of immunizations, background checks, and drug screenings. There are no fully online LPN programs that avoid these requirements.
Ready to Meet the Requirements?
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