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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License in Minnesota

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in MN. 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 Minnesota.

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your MN application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NCLEX-PN.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Minnesota, the licensing process begins with education. MN mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the NCLEX-PN. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Minnesota regulatory board.

Requirements

Minnesota has specific requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to provide basic nursing care under rn supervision. A clean background check is mandatory in MN, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The NCLEX-PN must be passed with a minimum score set by the Minnesota board.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in Minnesota is approximately $175. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. MN also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Minnesota may incur additional penalties of up to $44.

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

Base License Fee$175
Estimated Total$175

Renewal Process

License renewal for Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) professionals in Minnesota occurs on a 2-year cycle. MN charges a renewal fee of $100 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Minnesota at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

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

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

Additional Information

Working as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Minnesota offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. MN has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Minnesota also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) professionals.

Document Checklist — Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Minnesota 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 MN license holders.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize MN Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts MN Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for MN license holders.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize MN Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts MN Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts MN Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize MN Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Minnesota

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

St. Paul

85 7th Place E, St. Paul, MN 55101

(651) 539-1500

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

Minneapolis

350 S 5th St, Minneapolis, MN 55415

(612) 673-3000

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

Rochester

201 4th St SE, Rochester, MN 55904

(507) 328-2000

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

Duluth

411 W 1st St, Duluth, MN 55802

(218) 730-5000

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

Bloomington

1800 W Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington, MN 55431

(952) 563-8700

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

Official Minnesota Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Minnesota 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.