How to Get Your Pennsylvania LPN License in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

## How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania is home to two of the nation's top-tier academic medical centers (UPMC and Penn Medicine), a massive skilled-nursing facility market, and one of the highest-volume healthcare employment markets on the East Coast. LPNs are foundational to every segment — from Philadelphia's hospital corridor to Pittsburgh's complex care networks to rural central PA communities. Here's your complete 2026 guide to earning a Pennsylvania LPN license. ### Step 1: Complete an Accredited Practical Nursing Program Pennsylvania requires graduation from a practical nursing program approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Programs are offered at community colleges, career-and-technology centers (CTCs), and hospital-based schools and typically span 12–18 months. Institutions such as Community College of Philadelphia, CCAC (Community College of Allegheny County), Reading Area Community College, and dozens of CTCs across the state offer approved programs. Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn care, and supervised clinical rotations. Your official transcripts will be required when applying for licensure. ### Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam After completing your approved program, apply to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing to sit for the NCLEX-PN. Once your Authorization to Test is issued, schedule your exam through Pearson VUE. The adaptive exam runs 85–145 questions. Pass results are available in the Quick Results Service 48 hours after testing. ### Step 3: Apply for Your Pennsylvania LPN License Apply through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) at pals.pa.gov. Required documents include: - Completed online application and signed affidavit - Official nursing program transcripts - NCLEX-PN passage verification - Criminal history background check via the Pennsylvania State Police and FBI (fingerprints) - Application fee of approximately $75–$100 Processing typically runs two to six weeks. Pennsylvania LPN licenses renew every two years on a staggered schedule based on your license issue date. ### eNLC Compact Membership Pennsylvania joined the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC) and its membership is active for new licensees. Pennsylvania primary state of residence holders can practice in all other compact states without obtaining individual licenses — particularly valuable for the large New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, New York, West Virginia, and Ohio border markets. If you hold a compact license from another state and move to Pennsylvania, apply for a Pennsylvania license within 60 days of establishing residency. ### Continuing Education Requirements Pennsylvania LPNs must complete **30 CE hours per two-year renewal cycle**. Pennsylvania has a notable mandatory topic requirement: **Act 31 (Child Protective Services Law) requires 2 hours of approved child abuse recognition and reporting training** for every healthcare provider renewal cycle. This 2-hour Act 31 content must come from a provider approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. The remaining CE hours can be earned through employer in-services, college coursework, professional nursing association events (NFLPN, Pennsylvania Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service), and state-approved online platforms. Retain all CE certificates for at least four years. ### Pennsylvania LPN Salary Ranges Pennsylvania LPN salaries vary significantly by geography. Philadelphia-area LPNs earn approximately **$44,000–$60,000 per year**, with SNF settings and specialty units on the higher end. Pittsburgh-area LPNs earn roughly **$40,000–$56,000**. Central and rural Pennsylvania positions typically range from **$35,000–$48,000** but often include retention bonuses at critical-access facilities. ### Top Employers for LPNs in Pennsylvania **UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center)** is Pennsylvania's largest health system and employer, with hundreds of LPN positions across its acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, community health centers, and home health division. **Penn Medicine** anchors the Philadelphia academic market with major hospitals including HUP and Pennsylvania Hospital alongside a vast ambulatory network. **Jefferson Health** employs LPNs across its Philadelphia and South Jersey campus network in hospital and clinic roles. **Main Line Health** rounds out the Philadelphia suburban market with active LPN recruiting in inpatient and outpatient settings. The Philadelphia and Pittsburgh SNF corridors are among the busiest in the nation, offering LPNs substantial full-time and per-diem options with shift differentials.