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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License in Iowa

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in IA. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$175

Processing Time

4-6 Weeks

Exam Required

NCLEX-PN

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Iowa.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training program in Iowa.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your IA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NCLEX-PN.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Iowa licensing board and pay the $175 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-6 weeks in IA. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

The path to becoming a licensed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa involves several key steps. First, complete an approved education program recognized by IA. Next, prepare for and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN. Finally, gather your documentation and submit your license application through the Iowa state licensing portal.

Requirements

To qualify for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensure in Iowa, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. IA mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the NCLEX-PN, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Iowa regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Iowa sets the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license application fee at $175. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in IA. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in Iowa typically ranges from $175 to $375.

License Fee Calculator — Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa

Base License Fee$175
Estimated Total$175

Renewal Process

Iowa requires Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $100 in IA. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Iowa offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in IA

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Iowa requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Iowa takes professional licensing seriously, and the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) field is no exception. The state board in IA regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Iowa, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The IA licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Iowa Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for IA license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for IA license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize IA Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts IA Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize IA Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts IA Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts IA Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for IA license holders.

Where to File Locally in Iowa

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Des Moines

321 E 12th St, Des Moines, IA 50319

(515) 281-0254

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Cedar Rapids

101 1st St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

(319) 286-5080

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Davenport

226 W 4th St, Davenport, IA 52801

(563) 326-7700

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Sioux City

405 6th St, Sioux City, IA 51101

(712) 279-6100

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Iowa City

410 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA 52240

(319) 356-5000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Iowa Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Iowa state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.