How to Become an LPN in Montana for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Montana’s healthcare system continues to expand, and the demand for skilled support staff is rising quickly. According to the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs) rank as the sixth most in-demand healthcare profession (Trautman, 2024). This growing demand reflects a broader push to improve healthcare access and quality across Montana’s diverse communities.

An LPN in Montana performs a wide range of duties, from tracking patient progress to supporting families, other nurses, and healthcare providers. Their work is essential in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and community health programs, where practical nursing skills are in high demand.

In the following sections, we will explain how to become an LPN in Montana. You will learn about education and licensing requirements, necessary skills for success, expected salaries, job market projections, and other vital information to help you build a rewarding career in practical nursing.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPN in Montana

Montana's LPN job outlook is positive, with over 100 positions expected to open each year, reflecting steady demand in healthcare facilities statewide.
The average annual salary for LPNs in Montana is approximately $59,000, varying by location and employer within the state.
Several LPNs in Montana work in nursing homes and ambulatory care. However, opportunities also exist in hospitals and home health services.

What education is required to become an LPN in Montana?
How do you obtain an LPN license in Montana?
Can you transfer your LPN license to Montana?
What financial aid options are available for LPN students in Montana?
What is the average salary of an LPN in Montana?
What is the job outlook for LPNs in Montana?
Where do LPNs work in Montana?
How are legal and policy changes shaping LPN careers in Montana?
How can LPNs transition to advanced practice roles?
How does ongoing education and licensure renewal impact career longevity for LPNs in Montana?
What additional certifications can enhance an LPN’s career in Montana?
Are there other career opportunities that LPNs can explore in Montana?
What are the challenges of being an LPN in Montana’s healthcare system?
How are emerging technologies influencing LPN career growth in Montana?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPN in Montana

What education is required to become an LPN in Montana?

Embarking on the journey to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Montana is like assembling the perfect toolkit, each piece carefully chosen to build a solid foundation. The educational path is a blend of essential credentials and immersive training designed to prepare you for the real-world challenges of nursing. Here’s a breakdown of the key educational requirements you’ll need to achieve:

Obtain a high school diploma or GED to ensure you have the fundamental skills for nursing education.
Enroll in an accredited practical nursing program that delivers a certificate or diploma upon completion, typically lasting about one year. Depending on the program's admission requirements, you may also need to prepare for the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) during your application.
Engage in a curriculum that merges classroom learning with hands-on clinical practice, covering vital subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care techniques.
Complete a state-mandated number of clinical internship hours, gaining supervised, practical experience in healthcare settings.
Focus on specialized coursework that addresses rural healthcare challenges, equipping you to serve Montana’s diverse communities effectively.

How do you obtain an LPN license in Montana?

Embarking on the path to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Montana involves navigating a thoughtfully crafted sequence of requirements set by the state’s nursing authorities. This journey ensures that every candidate has the expertise and integrity crucial for compassionate patient care. Below is a breakdown of the essential steps you’ll need to take:

Complete and submit an application package to the Montana Board of Nursing, including all necessary forms, supporting documents, and fees.
Demonstrate successful completion of a practical nursing program approved by the Board or prove equivalent qualifications.
Pass the NCLEX-PN exam, the standardized test that validates your readiness to practice as an LPN.
Undergo a criminal background check involving fingerprint submission, reinforcing the state’s commitment to public safety.
If you hold a nursing license from another state, provide official verification to apply for licensure by endorsement.
Fulfill other Montana-specific mandates, such as proving good moral character and complying with local nursing laws and regulations.

Every step in this process is designed to uphold Montana’s high standards for nursing professionals, ensuring they are capable and ethical caregivers. Staying licensed also means meeting ongoing education and renewal criteria as prescribed by the Board.

When I spoke with a nurse from Montana about her experience, she reflected, “The fingerprinting and background check felt like a moment of real accountability—it was humbling but necessary.” She also mentioned how navigating the endorsement process from another state required patience and detailed attention to paperwork, but ultimately, it deepened her appreciation for the thoroughness of Montana’s licensing system.

Can you transfer your LPN license to Montana?

As a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), Montana allows both in-state and out-of-state nurses to expand healthcare access across the country. According to the Montana Board of Nursing, LPNs who hold a multistate license from another Compact state are permitted to practice in Montana without needing to obtain a separate state license. Around 92% of LPNs in Montana possess a Multistate privilege (Trautman, 2023).

To qualify for a multistate license, nurses must meet the NLC’s Uniform Licensure Requirements (ULRs). These include fulfilling their home state’s licensure criteria, graduating from accredited licensed practical nurse programs, demonstrating English proficiency (for non-native speakers and international graduates), passing the NCLEX exam, maintaining an active and unencumbered license, completing a criminal background check, having no prior disciplinary actions, having no participation in alternative programs, and possessing a U.S. Social Security number.

However, if you intend to establish Montana as your primary residence, you must apply for a Montana LPN license within 60 days of relocating. This process involves applying for licensure by endorsement, submitting a completed application form, providing verification of your active license from your current state, and undergoing a background check.

What financial aid options are available for LPN students in Montana?

Embarking on the path to become an LPN in Montana comes with its share of financial hurdles, but the state offers a garden of tailored aid opportunities to help you bloom. Targeted scholarships and grants specifically for nursing students can soften the weight of tuition and fees, often with the added purpose of growing Montana’s healthcare workforce. Below are some standout options that aspiring LPNs should explore to ease their educational journey.

Montana State University Scholarship Program: This initiative, managed by the university's College of Nursing, typically awards financial aid annually to nursing students, including those pursuing LPN credentials.
Montana Health Care Association: Rewarding financial aid to students pursuing a career in nursing, this scholarship offers $2,500 in assistance.
John and Darlene Skees Memorial Nursing Scholarship: This program provides assistance to LPNs who wish to become RNs or pursue advanced nursing education.
Local Hospital and Healthcare Provider Scholarships: Various healthcare facilities across Montana provide financial support aimed at LPN students who plan to join their teams, with awards varying by institution.
Federal Nursing Workforce Diversity Program: This federal grant program supports nursing students from diverse backgrounds nationwide, offering additional funding that can complement Montana’s state-specific aids.

When I talked with a Montana nurse about his early days, he said, “Navigating the maze of scholarships felt overwhelming, but each application was a step closer to my dream.” He recalled how the blend of local and state aid made him feel supported and motivated, turning financial stress into a hopeful journey.

What is the average salary of an LPN in Montana?

Licensed Practical Nurses in Montana earn an average annual salary of $58,710, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This is lower than the national average for the profession, which was $64,150 in 2024. However, the range of the salary lands between $47,040 in the 10th percentile and $74,500 in the 90th percentile.

In comparison to other nursing roles, LPNs have earnings that are closer to those of certified nursing assistants (CNAs), who earn an average salary of $42,020. In contrast, registered nurses (RNs) make approximately $88,480 per year, while advanced practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners (NPs), earn around $131,560. Nursing instructors also command higher salaries, averaging $85,630 annually.

When sizing up the Licensed Practical Nurse pay Montana against neighboring states, Montana’s wage is competitive but not at the top. Washington LPNs gain the highest salary, at $79,970. This is followed by LPNs in Wyoming ($61,080) and North Dakota ($60,110). At $59,340, LPNs in Idaho have a slightly higher wage than those in Montana. Lastly, those in South Dakota have the lowest wages, at $51,230, among Montana's neighbors.

Several factors shape wage differences for LPNs within Montana. Experience level, specialty certifications, and the type of healthcare facility play significant roles. Geographic location also matters, as rural areas might have different pay scales due to workforce supply and patient demand fluctuations.

For those considering career growth, exploring flexible LPN to BSN courses may offer a pathway to higher salaries and expanded opportunities in nursing.

What is the job outlook for LPNs in Montana?

The outlook for future LPNs in Montana is bright, supported by consistent demand across the state’s healthcare system. From 2023 to 2033, employment for LPNs is projected to add approximately 188 new positions each year, aligning with national trends and indicating a strong, expanding job market.

Most of these openings will stem from workforce turnover, such as retirements and career shifts, with about 26 positions created annually due to job growth. Notably, 34% of LPNs in Montana are over the age of 60, 26% are between 50 and 59, 35% fall within the 30 to 49 age range, and just 6% are under 30 (Trautman, 2023). Despite this, the state’s evolving healthcare needs and aging population continue to drive the demand for LPNs.

For comparison, nursing assistants are expected to see an increase of 865 positions over the decade, registered nurses (RNs) will have around 745 annual job openings, nurse practitioners (NPs) will gain about 96 new positions each year, and nursing instructors will add approximately 22 new roles annually.

For those eager to step into this role, the landscape offers diverse paths across hospitals, nursing facilities, and home care settings. The consistent call for skilled hands in these environments means aspiring LPNs can expect not just job security but also the chance to evolve professionally, carving out niches and specialties as healthcare needs shift and grow.

This chart displays the projected supply and demand of LPNs.

Where do LPNs work in Montana?

For those exploring lpn job opportunities in montana, the landscape is rich with diverse and rewarding possibilities. Whether you crave the bustling energy of hospitals or the intimate setting of home health care, the state offers a variety of workplaces tailored to different nursing passions. Below is a snapshot of notable Montana employers where licensed practical nurses can thrive.

Billings Clinic: This hospital is celebrated for its comprehensive training programs and collaborative care teams that help LPNs sharpen clinical skills alongside RNs and physicians.
St. Peter's Health: Known for emphasizing professional development and offering competitive benefits, this facility attracts LPNs aiming for career growth.
Montana Veterans' Home, Columbia Falls: A skilled nursing facility dedicated to veteran care, providing LPNs with a specialized environment rich in purpose and community connection.
Benefis Health System: An outpatient clinic and home health agency that values flexible scheduling and patient-centered care, ideal for LPNs wanting to work closely with patients in less acute settings.

According to Montana's Department of Labor & Industry (Trautman, 2024; 2023), 77% of LPNs work within the nursing field, 7% are in another field, 17% are not in the labor force, and 1% are unemployed. Of those employed, 26% are employed in nursing homes or extended care, 17% work in other employment settings, 15% are in ambulatory care, 10% work in hospitals, and 9% work in home health.

Montana’s rural geography fuels a high demand for home health nursing, where LPNs deliver vital care to patients unable to visit medical facilities easily. For those interested in accelerating their path, there are short fast-track LPN programs designed to help aspiring nurses step into these roles quickly. This variety of workplaces not only supports meaningful patient care but also encourages ongoing professional development, making Montana a fertile ground for licensed practical nurse workplaces.

How are legal and policy changes shaping LPN careers in Montana?

LPNs in Montana must monitor evolving legal frameworks and regulatory updates that directly impact their scope of practice, patient care standards, and employment conditions. Recent policy modifications and legislative discussions are aimed at refining practice guidelines and ensuring compliance with state and federal healthcare standards. Staying informed through local professional associations and state board announcements can empower LPNs to adapt their practice in alignment with new regulations. For additional insights on advancing within the nursing field, explore guidance on how to become an LVN nurse in Montana.

How can LPNs transition to advanced practice roles?

LPNs seeking to broaden their scope beyond traditional bedside care can consider targeted academic bridge programs and career pathways that lead to advanced practice roles. Transitioning often begins with obtaining additional credentials and enrolling in structured pathways that facilitate movement from practical nursing to roles with greater clinical autonomy. By pursuing accredited RN programs or specialized bridging courses, LPNs can build the foundation necessary for roles that demand advanced clinical reasoning and leadership. For those aiming to further elevate their practice, exploring avenues such as becoming a nurse practitioner in Montana provides detailed insights into the educational requirements and professional steps needed to advance to a nurse practitioner role. This progression not only enhances clinical expertise but also positions nurses for improved compensation and expanded responsibilities within Montana’s healthcare system.

How does ongoing education and licensure renewal impact career longevity for LPNs in Montana?

Maintaining an active LPN license in Montana requires adherence to structured continuing education and renewal protocols that directly influence long-term career sustainability. LPNs are expected to stay abreast of contemporary best practices, regulatory updates, and evolving clinical guidelines through accredited courses and targeted professional development initiatives. Consistent engagement with these educational opportunities not only reinforces clinical competencies but also ensures compliance with the latest Montana nursing licensure requirements. This proactive approach to licensure maintenance supports high-quality patient care while fostering professional growth in an ever-changing healthcare environment.

What additional certifications can enhance an LPN’s career in Montana?

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, continuing education and advanced certifications serve as powerful tools for LPNs aiming to soar beyond entry-level roles. These certifications not only sharpen clinical skills but also unlock new career pathways, higher compensation, and enhanced professional respect. For LPNs in Montana, where healthcare demands range from rural clinics to urban hospitals, acquiring advanced LPN certifications Montana can be a game-changer in adapting to diverse patient needs and increasing job security.

Among the many Montana LPN career certification options, two stand out for their practical impact and relevance. The first is the Wound Care Certification, equipping LPNs with expertise in assessing, treating, and managing wounds. With Montana’s aging population and the prevalence of chronic illnesses like diabetes, this certification addresses critical healthcare challenges. LPNs skilled in wound care play a key role in accelerating healing, preventing infections, and reducing costly hospital readmissions.

Another one is IV Therapy Certification. However, Montana does not offer an endorsement for IV certification, but before performing IV therapy, practical nurses must complete a course from a board-approved nursing program that demonstrates their ability to safely administer IV procedures. Moreover, according to the State Board of Nursing, it is the responsibility of the nurse to assess whether they have the required education and competence to perform IV therapy procedures.

For those seeking to expand their horizons, exploring affordable LPN programs can provide a pathway to these certifications and beyond. Pursuing these credentials demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and positions LPNs as indispensable healthcare providers ready to meet Montana’s evolving medical needs.

Are there other career opportunities that LPNs can explore in Montana?

LPNs in Montana have a vibrant spectrum of career opportunities beyond traditional nursing roles. For those eager to pivot or expand their horizons, there are plenty of options in Montana that capitalize on clinical skills while opening doors to new professional landscapes. Exploring LPN alternative careers in Montana reveals several paths where nursing expertise meets innovation and flexibility.

Medical Biller: This role centers on managing patient billing and insurance claims, ensuring precise coding and reimbursement. It’s ideal for detail-oriented LPNs interested in the administrative side of healthcare and offers stable employment as Montana’s healthcare sector grows.
Home Health Aide: Leveraging nursing knowledge, LPNs can provide compassionate in-home care for elderly or disabled patients. This expanding field suits those craving flexible schedules and meaningful patient interaction, especially in response to Montana’s aging population.
Medical Assistant: A blend of clinical and administrative duties, taking vitals, scheduling appointments, makes this a natural fit for LPNs. Their clinical background enhances value in outpatient clinics or primary care settings.
Pharmacy Technician: For those fascinated by pharmacology, this career involves medication management and patient counseling. Additional certification is required, but it offers a unique niche for LPNs eager to specialize.

For LPNs eyeing certification as medical billers, Montana provides review classes and seminars through community colleges and healthcare organizations. Mastering ICD-10 coding and reimbursement rules is vital; tools like practice exams and study guides from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) can sharpen skills. Engaging with study groups or online forums tailored for Montana healthcare professionals can boost confidence before certification exams.

Moreover, LPNs seeking to further their nursing education might explore low-cost LPN to RN programs as a strategic next step within Montana nursing career options. RNs have more responsibilities, including overseeing patient care plans, supervising nursing staff, and performing more complex medical procedures, making this a logical career progression. Advancing to an RN role not only offers greater job responsibilities but also opens the door to higher earning potential and more career opportunities in the healthcare field.

This chart reflects the annual pay of various medical workers.

What are the challenges of being an LPN in Montana’s healthcare system?

Stepping into the shoes of an LPN in Montana means navigating a healthcare landscape shaped by vast open spaces and tight-knit rural communities, but also by unique obstacles that test resilience and adaptability.

Rural Isolation and Scarce Resources: Much of Montana’s geography creates a patchwork of remote clinics and care homes where LPNs are the backbone. Yet, these areas often grapple with limited staffing and fewer chances for skill-building, making career growth a steep climb.
Growing Demand From an Aging Population: With more seniors needing care in nursing homes and assisted living, LPNs face heavier workloads that can stretch their capacities and impact job satisfaction.
Advanced Training Bottlenecks: The scarcity of specialized programs in less populated regions means LPNs may struggle to find opportunities to advance or diversify their expertise, potentially stalling career momentum.
Urban Salary Magnetism: Competitive pay in Montana’s cities pulls LPNs away from rural posts, deepening workforce gaps in underserved areas and increasing pressure on those who stay.
COVID-19 Burnout and Turnover: The pandemic amplified existing stresses, pushing many LPNs to their limits and fueling higher rates of job fatigue and departure from the profession.
Regulatory Hurdles and Practice Limits: Differing rules across Montana can confuse LPNs and restrict their ability to fully apply their skills, adding another layer of complexity to their daily work.

For those aspiring to join Montana’s LPN ranks, embracing flexibility is key. Understanding these hurdles can prepare candidates to thrive amid the state’s evolving healthcare challenges.

How are emerging technologies influencing LPN career growth in Montana?

Advanced digital systems, telehealth services, and automated administrative tools are redefining the LPN role in Montana. LPNs are increasingly expected to integrate digital documentation, electronic health records, and remote monitoring into their daily practice. This technological shift also opens avenues for cross-training in complementary fields, such as medical billing and coding, enabling LPNs to diversify their responsibilities and improve workflow efficiency. For instance, acquiring skills in digital claims processing can set an LPN apart in today’s tech-driven healthcare environment – learn how to become a medical coder in Montana.

What LPNs in Montana Say About Their Careers

"Working as an LPN in Billings has given me the chance to deeply connect with my community and make a tangible difference in patients’ lives every day. The practical nursing program at Helena College prepared me thoroughly, and I love how Montana’s smaller healthcare settings allow for more personalized care. I feel proud knowing my work supports families close to home." - Nathaniel
"Montana’s unique rural environment presents challenges that have truly shaped my nursing skills and adaptability. Graduating from Montana State University, I now work in a remote clinic near Kalispell, where I often handle a variety of cases independently. This experience has opened doors for advanced certifications and career growth that I hadn’t anticipated." - Cathy
"Balancing a nursing career with raising my family in Missoula has been surprisingly manageable thanks to Montana’s affordable living and supportive healthcare employers. As a veteran LPN with over 20 years of experience, I appreciate the opportunities for mentoring new nurses and continuing education available through the University of Montana’s programs. This career continues to challenge and inspire me." - Lana

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPN in Montana

How much does it cost to complete an LPN program in Montana?

Embarking on the journey to become an LPN in Montana typically requires an investment averaging around $7,000 to $12,000 in tuition fees. This sum covers the core educational experience but is only part of the financial picture. Students should anticipate additional costs such as textbooks, uniforms, and licensing exam fees, which can add several hundred dollars more.

Beyond tuition, fees for background checks, immunizations, and clinical supplies also factor into the total cost. These expenses, often overlooked, are essential to ensure both safety and compliance throughout clinical training. Understanding these layered costs is crucial for a clear financial roadmap toward becoming an LPN in Montana’s healthcare landscape.

Are there fast-track LPN programs in Montana?

In Montana, fast-track LPN programs do exist, designed for those seeking a swift leap into nursing. These accelerated paths often last about 9 to 12 months, compressing core nursing education into an intense, focused experience. Prerequisites typically include a high school diploma and prerequisite courses like anatomy and physiology. Examples of such programs include the accelerated LPN track at Great Falls College and the condensed curriculum at Flathead Valley Community College, both embracing speed without sacrificing essential clinical skills.

Can you take online LPN programs in Montana?

In Montana, fully online LPN programs are rare due to the hands-on nature of nursing training. Some schools offer hybrid options combining online theory with mandatory in-person clinicals. This blend ensures students gain practical skills essential for Montana’s healthcare settings. Unlike on-campus programs, online paths demand strong self-discipline and proactive scheduling for clinical hours.

Is Montana a good place for LPNs?

Montana is indeed a promising state to embark on a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Its unique blend of rural charm and growing healthcare needs creates a fertile ground for practical nurses seeking both stability and meaningful work.

Demand in Rural Areas: Montana’s vast landscapes mean many communities rely heavily on LPNs to fill essential healthcare roles where doctors and RNs may be scarce, making practical nurses indispensable.
Competitive Salary Growth: While not the highest nationally, Montana offers steady salary increases for LPNs, reflecting growing recognition of their critical role in healthcare teams.
Pathways to Advancement: The state supports LPNs through accessible bridge programs, allowing practical nurses to advance toward RN status without uprooting their lives, nurturing long-term career growth.

References:

Montana Department of Labor & Industry. (2023). Montana’s Job Projections 2023-2033. Montana Labor Market Information. Retrieved April 28, 2025, from https://lmi.mt.gov/Projections
National Council of State Boards of Nursing. (2023). 2023 NCLEX Examination Statistics. https://www.ncsbn.org/public-files/2023_NCLEXExamStats_Final.pdf
National Council of State Boards of Nursing. (2025, January). The 2025 NCSBN Environmental Scan: Going Beyond. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 15(4), S1–S48. https://www.journalofnursingregulation.com/article/S2155-8256(25)00038-9/fulltext
Trautman, E. (2023, October). The Status of the Nursing Workforce in Montana: A Summary of the Results from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing 20222 Survey. Montana Department of Labor & Industry. https://lmi.mt.gov/_docs/Publications/LMI-Pubs/Labor-Market-Publications/2023_NursingSurvey.pdf
Trautman, E. (2024, January). Montana’s Healthcare Workforce. Montana Department of Labor & Industry. https://archive.legmt.gov/content/Committees/Interim/2023-2024/Children-Families/CFHHS_Meetings/2024_Mar_12/03-24_Montanas_Healthcare_Workforce.pdf
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025a, April 28). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Montana, May 2024. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Query System. Retrieved April 28, 2025, from https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/area/3000000
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025b, April 18). Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/licensed-practical-and-licensed-vocational-nurses.htm