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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License in West Virginia

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in WV. 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 West Virginia.

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your WV application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NCLEX-PN.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

To obtain your Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in West Virginia, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. West Virginia requires all applicants to pass the NCLEX-PN before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in WV is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

Before applying for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in West Virginia, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. WV requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the NCLEX-PN is a non-negotiable requirement in West Virginia.

Fees & Costs

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

License Fee Calculator — Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in West Virginia

Base License Fee$175
Estimated Total$175

Renewal Process

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

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

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

Additional Information

Working as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in West Virginia offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. WV 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. West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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) NoneAK does not recognize WV Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize WV Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts WV Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for WV license holders.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize WV Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for WV license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for WV license holders.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize WV Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in West Virginia

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

Charleston

1900 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25305

(304) 558-6000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Huntington

800 5th Ave, Huntington, WV 25701

(304) 696-5540

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Morgantown

389 Spruce St, Morgantown, WV 26505

(304) 284-7400

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Parkersburg

1 Government Square, Parkersburg, WV 26101

(304) 424-8500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Wheeling

1500 Chapline St, Wheeling, WV 26003

(304) 234-3600

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Official West Virginia Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the West Virginia 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.