Best LPN Programs in Idaho – Accredited Online LPN Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in California and Texas) are the entry-level nursing positions that every healthcare facility depends on for first-line work with patients. They provide basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or physician.

The number of LPNs and LVNs in the United States is expected to increase from 724,500 in 2016 to 807,000 by 2028, or a 9.1% average ten-year increase, with an average annual salary of $43,835 (DataUSA, 2023a). Demand for LPNs in Idaho continues to exceed the massive nurse shortage in the U.S. healthcare system. As of 2017, LPNs in Idaho numbered 3,650, with 444 from outside Idaho and 3,206 Idaho residents (Idaho.gov, 2023).

Utilizing the latest public data and information, Research.com’s expert research team compiled a list of some of the best LPN programs in Idaho, along with the details about schools, licenses, and salaries in ID for LPNs in comparison to some online nursing degree programs.

Best LPN Programs in Idaho Table of Contents

1. How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Idaho
2. What is the typical cost of a licensed practical nursing program in Idaho?
3. How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse in Idaho?
4. Can you become a licensed practical nurse in Idaho with an online degree?
5. Online Licensed Practical Nursing Programs in Idaho for 2025
6. What can I do with a licensed practical nursing degree in Idaho?
7. Is Idaho good for a licensed practical nurse?
8. Could interdisciplinary training boost my LPN career in Idaho?
9. What to Look For in an LPN Program in Idaho
10. How can professional networking and mentorship enhance my LPN career in Idaho?
11. How can I gain specialized skills or certifications as an LPN in Idaho?
12. What regulatory changes should LPNs monitor in Idaho?
13. How can you transition from LPN to RN in Idaho?
14. What challenges do LPNs encounter in Idaho’s evolving healthcare landscape?
15. Can LPNs Transition into Nurse Midwifery Roles in Idaho?
16. What makes accelerated nursing programs a viable option for LPNs in Idaho?
17. How do different nursing degree paths compare for advancing your career?
18. How can emerging healthcare technologies enhance LPN roles in Idaho?
19. What is the potential return on investment for LPN programs in Idaho?

How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Idaho

To become an LPN in Idaho, one must have a high school degree or a GED from an accredited school in the USA. International degrees are also taken into consideration by the Idaho Board of Nursing. Some competitive LPN programs in Idaho require college-level credits and prerequisite subjects such as pharmacology, human biology, and English composition, among others. Increasingly, applicants need more formal prerequisites for coursework for LPN programs in Idaho.

Some programs require a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate (from any state) as part of application requirements.

After completing all coursework, an internship or practicum component is counted to complete around 300 clinic hours, usually obtained through their place of employment or internship healthcare facility.

To obtain LPN licensure, one must pass the NCLEX exam (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses).

Score reports are sent directly by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) to the test taker and the desired state licensing board and/or potential employers.

An application with all the requirements above to the Idaho Board of Nursing is then made, after which the board confers a license to practice in Idaho.

As for Compact state rules, note that an Idaho multistate license will be issued if Idaho is one’s primary state of residence. But if one changes one’s state of residence to another state, one must request a new license in that state. If one’s new state of residence is a member of the Compact, upon issuance of one’s new multistate license, one’s Idaho license will become invalid. If one’s new state of residence is not a Compact state, a single state Idaho license valid only for practice in Idaho will be issued.

Background checks and electronic fingerprinting are routine procedures for all aspiring licensees via LPN programs in Idaho. Drug screening, vaccinations/ immunizations, and TB-negative results are required for all Idaho nurses. COVID vaccinations especially are required for all nursing programs.

LPN license renewal is from June 1 through August 31 during even-numbered years. All license applications and renewals can be made only through the Idaho Board of Nursing Nurse Portal.

These include initial licensure by exam, license by endorsement, and renewals of all license types.

What is the typical cost of a licensed practical nursing program in Idaho?

Tuition fees for LPN programs in Idaho vary with the type of college, especially in university fees for in-state and out-of-state tuition. In addition, room and board and other costs can be a necessary extra cost for some. As a sampling, the following are sample tuition rates at some LPN schools in ID.

How much does it cost to become a nurse? For one, Eagle Gate College has discounted its PN certificate program tuition to $25,000. North Idaho College’s tuition per credit hour depends on the student type: resident at $141.50, non-district at $215.00, WA at $246.00, and nonresident at $364.00.

The College of Southern Idaho charges $140.00/credit for residents and $285.00/credit for nonresidents. The College of Eastern Idaho charges tuition and general fees for two semesters at $3,390 for residents and $6,750 for out-of-state nonresidents. Lastly, Carrington College costs $36,888 for its entire program.

With due diligence, you should find affordable nursing schools in the state. You can start with the mentioned programs.

How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse in Idaho?

LPN programs in Idaho typically take one or two years to finish full-time; LPN programs completion time in Idaho of less than one year are usually accelerated programs that require full-time attendance. LPN to RN, LPN to BSN, or other higher degree bridging programs are also offered to those who already are LPNs.

Typically, the internship or practicum clinic component counts current work experience in one’s place of employment as credit hours to allow working nurses to pursue an LPN degree and sit for the NCLEX licensure exam.

It all depends on the types and levels of nursing degrees one wants to pursue.

Can you become a licensed practical nurse in Idaho with an online degree?

There are no 100% online LPN programs in Idaho; however, several bridging programs offer purely online study, like LPN to RN and others. Almost all programs offer some hybrid online courses, but most coursework is still offered onsite or face-to-face only.

An important component of a nursing program is its internship or practicum part, which is exclusively offered on-site due to its practical and hands-on nature in patient care.

More information about all LPN programs in Idaho in accredited nursing schools can be found in the Idaho Board of Nursing FAQ, which lists all accredited nursing schools in Idaho.

Online Licensed Practical Nursing Programs in Idaho for 2025

As there are currently no 100% online LPN programs in Idaho, the following list includes LPN and LPN to RN bridging programs with some online components. These choices for the top LPN programs in Idaho, which are recommended by experts at Research.com, are not comprehensive and serve only as a sampling of the LPN programs in Idaho. As prices are subject to change, it is best to check the latest information on the respective program’s website you are interested in.

1. Carrington College

Carrington College, located in Boise, Idaho, offers a practical nursing program that culminates in a Certificate of Achievement in Practical Nursing. The program covers major areas of nursing: medical surgical nursing, mental health nursing, pediatric nursing, and anatomy and physiology, among others. The program prepares aspiring nurses for entry-level positions in the nursing industry in Idaho. It had a 97.14% NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2022.

1. Program Length: 48 weeks
2. Tracks/concentrations: PN
3. Total tuition cost: PN certificate: $36,888 (2 years)
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 41 credits, 540 clinic hours
5. Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

2. College of Eastern Idaho

The College of Eastern Idaho offers a practical nursing program leading to an Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC). The program includes theory and practical hands-on experience under faculty supervision; over 300 clinical hours are spent as practicum requirements. It now requires all applicants to be certified CNAs before application. The college offers a PN to RN option for those who want to become registered nurses quicker by offering two RN-level classes to transition to the RN program. It boasts a 95.26% average placement for graduates in the past five years.

1. Program Length: 2 semesters/ one year
2. Tracks/concentrations: PN
3. Tuition and General Fees (2 semesters): Resident: $3,390; Out-of-state nonresident: $6,750
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 28 credits
5. Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

3. College of Southern Idaho

The College of Southern Idaho (Twin Falls) offers a Practical Nursing Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC) and an LPN to ADN program. The program prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX exam and apply for an LPN license in Idaho. Its NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2022 was 92.86%.

1. Program Length: 1 year
2. Tracks/concentrations: PN
3. Tuition cost per credit: Resident: $140.00/credit; nonresident: $285.00/credit
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 46 credits
5. Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

4. Eagle Gate College

Eagle Gate College (Idaho Falls) offers a Practical Nursing Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC). The following are the areas of training that the program teaches: nursing fundamentals theory, nursing fundamentals clinical/skills, pharmacology, medical-surgical theory and clinical, maternal and newborn, pediatrics, and professional development. The college provides NCLEX-PN test preparation and offers job placement assistance to students. Its 2022 NCLEX-PN pass rate was 100% (three test takers).

1. Program Length: 1 year
2. Tracks/concentrations: PN
3. Total Program Tuition: $25,000
4. Required Credits to Graduate: not available
5. Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)

5. North Idaho College

North Idaho College (Coeur d’Alene) offers a offers a Practical Nursing Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC). Students are taught a curriculum that includes the basic and clinical foundations of nursing, medical and surgical nursing, maternal care, care of infants and children, psychiatric nursing, pharmacology, and geriatrics. Its 2022 NCLEX-PN pass rate was 93.33% (15 test takers).

1. Program Length: 11 months
2. Tracks/concentrations: PN
3. Tuition cost per credit: Resident: $141.50; Non-District: $215.00; WA: $246.00; Nonresident: $364.00
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 52 credits
5. Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

The 2022 Idaho nursing colleges’ NCLEX pass rates for first-time test takers are shown in the following chart. Of test takers from LPN programs, the following were the pass rates: Carrington College LPN at 97.14% (35 test takers), College of Eastern Idaho LPN at 100% (24 test takers), College of Southern Idaho LPN at 92.86% (14 test takers), College of Western Idaho LPN at 100% (17 test takers), Eagle Gate Boise LPN at 100% (3 test takers), Idaho State University LPN at 96.3% (27 test takers), and North Idaho College LPN at 93.33% (15 test takers) (Idaho.gov, 2023).

Aside from LPN programs in Idaho results, those from Idaho RN, ADN RN, BSN RN, and MEPN RN programs are shown for comparison since they are advanced degrees that LPNs can study to enhance their nursing careers.

What can I do with a licensed practical nursing degree in Idaho?

LPNs care for ill, injured, or convalescing patients and PWDs in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, and other healthcare facilities or organizations under the supervision of a registered nurse. An LPN degree and license to practice equips you to help patients live better and healthier lives. The state of Idaho offers a lot of promise salary-wise and in terms of cost of living and personal satisfaction.

The ten leading causes of death in Idaho in 2021 were diseases of the heart at 3,430, malignant neoplasms (cancer) at 3,126, COVID-19 at 2,406, accidents at 1,163, chronic lower respiratory diseases at 919, Alzheimer’s disease at 789, cerebrovascular diseases at 752, diabetes mellitus at 541, suicide at 387, and chronic liver disease and cirrhosis at 351 deaths (bureau of vital records and health statistics, 2022).

These areas require more attention and help, and LPNs can help treat or prevent these diseases in their patients.

Is Idaho good for a licensed practical nurse?

Salary and Employment Outlook

In Idaho in 2022, 13,680 registered nurses were earning $78,610/year, 270 nurse anesthetists earning $181,110/year, 70 nurse midwives earning $59,080/year, and 1,170 nurse practitioners earning $117,720/ year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics., 2023). These are all very good salaries, but the number of nurses overall still falls short of the minimum number required to provide excellent healthcare. Practice opportunities for LPNs in Idaho abound.

Idaho cities with the top annual LPN salaries in 2023 are Idaho Falls at $62,315, Boise at $60,809, and Rigby at $60,519. The salaries are not that much different in the top five cities. These are followed by Nampa at $60,247, Coeur d’Alene at $59,126, Ketchum at $56,824, Pocatello at $56,824, Post Falls at $56,265, Lewiston at $55,120, and Twin Falls at $53,175 (ZipRecruiter, 2023). These are decent salaries, and combined with cost of living considerations per city, ID can offer you a good income and lifestyle.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Idaho is $2,114, which is 1.02 times less expensive than the average COL in the United States; the state is ranked the 25th most expensive state to live in, positioning it halfway through all U.S. states. It is one of the most cost-competitive places to live and work in the USA. (Livingcost.org, 2023).

In detail, a single person’s monthly cost of living in Idaho is $2,114 with rent, $766 without rent, $541 for food, and $1,348 for rent and utilities.

For a family of four, it is $4,677 with rent, $2,547 without rent, $1,411 for food, and $2,131 for rent and utilities (Livingcost.org, 2023). ID is around average in terms of costs compared to most major U.S. cities, much lower than in the top most expensive cities in the USA.

With the good ID LPN salaries, learning how to become an LPN in Idaho makes sense.

2020 Medical Coverage in Idaho

Medical coverage in Idaho is quite comprehensive—only 10.2% of its population is uninsured. The majority have employer coverage at 46.2%, while 14.1% have Medicaid and 11.7% are on Medicare. Non-group insurance covers 15.8% of the population, and 2.08% possess military or VA insurance (Data USA, 2023). As insurance provides coverage and protection, almost 90% of Idaho’s population is well-equipped to pay for healthcare costs when necessary through their providers. The job roles of LPNs in Idaho involve catering to these communities.

Could interdisciplinary training boost my LPN career in Idaho?

Interdisciplinary training offers LPNs an opportunity to diversify their clinical and administrative skill sets, enhancing versatility in a competitive healthcare market. Delving into complementary programs can provide hands-on experience with broader patient care techniques and technical proficiencies that elevate patient support and overall practice efficiency. For example, integrating knowledge from the best medical assistant programs in Idaho can help bridge gaps between direct patient care and supportive clinical services, ultimately strengthening your career portfolio and expanding job prospects.

What to Look For in an LPN Program in Idaho

Accreditation

Accreditation is a way to make sure that a university degree is real, up-to-date, and considered legitimate by employers and universities. Non-accredited degrees are worthless to employers. A fake degree could hurt or even kill someone if you do not know what you are doing.

Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), among others, is a safe bet that LPN programs in Idaho are legitimate.

Faculty Credentials and Publications

Teaching faculty must be licensed practitioners in their fields, besides having excellent teaching and mentorship skills. Publications or other contributions to the nursing or medical field are ideal; you can always research their publications online.

Certification Exam Pass Rates

NCLEX-PN exam pass rates indicate how successful and current an LPN program is. Although many other factors affect exam scores, consistently good passing rates are a good indicator. Exam pass rates are also part of the conditions for maintaining program accreditation to continue.

How can professional networking and mentorship enhance my LPN career in Idaho?

Engaging in professional networking and formal mentorship programs is crucial for expanding clinical expertise and accessing emerging career opportunities. Building connections with experienced professionals not only provides insight into industry trends but also introduces pathways to specialized roles and hidden job markets. Consider attending local and state healthcare conferences or joining professional associations in Idaho to establish reliable connections within the community. Utilizing digital platforms can further facilitate exchanges of best practices and guidance on career advancement, including niche fields—such as exploring how to become a nutritionist in Idaho—which may complement your clinical experience. Prioritizing the development of leadership, communication, and collaborative skills will strengthen your professional profile and contribute significantly to long-term career growth.

How can I gain specialized skills or certifications as an LPN in Idaho?

Expanding your skills through specialized certifications can open doors to more advanced roles, higher salaries, and unique career paths within healthcare as an LPN in Idaho. Here are some common certification options and their benefits:

IV Therapy Certification

• Expanded Scope: Many LPNs pursue IV Therapy certification to gain the skills needed to administer intravenous medications and fluids.
• Enhanced Job Prospects: IV-certified LPNs are often in high demand in hospitals and other acute care settings.
• Availability in Idaho: This certification is typically available as a short course or training program through vocational schools and healthcare institutions in Idaho.

Wound Care Certification

• Specialized Patient Care: LPNs certified in wound care can provide specialized treatment for patients with complex wounds, pressure ulcers, and diabetic wounds.
• Job Flexibility: This skillset can lead to roles in long-term care facilities, home health, and specialized wound care clinics.
• Certification Providers: National organizations like the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy (NAWCO) offer these certifications, which are recognized in Idaho.

Gerontology Certification

• Senior Patient Care Expertise: Gerontology certification provides specialized knowledge for working with elderly patients, focusing on age-related conditions and challenges.
• Career Advancement: This qualification is especially beneficial for LPNs seeking roles in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospice care.
• Certification Bodies: The National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service (NAPNES) offers this certification to LPNs nationwide.

Phlebotomy Certification

• Blood Draw Expertise: With phlebotomy skills, LPNs can perform blood draws and handle specimens, which enhances their value in outpatient clinics and hospitals.
• Broader Scope: Phlebotomy skills increase an LPN's scope of practice and can lead to specialized roles in laboratory settings.
• Training Options: Idaho community colleges and healthcare facilities often provide phlebotomy training courses for LPNs.

Pediatric or Maternal Health Certification

• Focused Patient Groups: LPNs with certifications in pediatric or maternal health care are trained to address specific needs of children and maternal patients.
• Niche Opportunities: These certifications are valuable in hospitals, pediatric clinics, and family health practices.
• Certification Programs: Organizations like NAPNES and specialized healthcare schools offer courses that align with Idaho’s healthcare standards.

What regulatory changes should LPNs monitor in Idaho?

Staying updated on state-specific regulatory shifts is essential for maintaining a compliant LPN practice. Monitoring changes in legal standards, scope of practice updates, and periodic revisions in licensure protocols helps safeguard your career. Regularly reviewing the latest information and updates—including those outlined under Idaho nursing license requirements—ensures adherence to evolving professional guidelines and supports continued compliance with state mandates.

How can you transition from LPN to RN in Idaho?

Advancing from a licensed practical nurse to a registered nurse in Idaho not only elevates your role but also significantly boosts your earning potential and career opportunities. Idaho offers several LPN-to-RN programs, which typically allow working professionals to build on their existing knowledge while balancing their schedules.

These bridging programs often feature a mix of online and in-person course options, covering foundational RN nursing practices, advanced patient care, and leadership skills. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, a key requirement to secure RN licensure. If you're exploring this path, understanding how to become a registered nurse in Idaho can provide critical guidance and resources to streamline your transition.

Many Idaho-based programs also offer financial aid and flexible timelines to accommodate full-time LPNs. Embracing this academic journey ensures not just a higher salary but also increased responsibilities, autonomy, and a broader impact on patient care. Upgrading from LPN to RN is a pivotal step to unlocking your full potential in the healthcare field.

What challenges do LPNs encounter in Idaho’s evolving healthcare landscape?

LPNs in Idaho face dynamic challenges as they adapt to shifting regulatory standards, evolving patient demographics, and increasingly sophisticated healthcare technologies. Limited scope of practice and resource constraints may influence clinical decision-making and impede rapid career advancement. Balancing day-to-day responsibilities while seeking specialized training to overcome these obstacles is critical. Many LPNs mitigate these issues by pursuing targeted certifications and engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance their clinical acumen. For those looking to expand their practice authority, exploring how to become a nurse practitioner in Idaho can open new avenues to address these challenges effectively.

What are the opportunities for advanced nursing education in Idaho after becoming an LPN?

After gaining experience as an LPN in Idaho, you may consider pursuing advanced nursing education to enhance your career prospects. If you're interested in becoming a nurse practitioner, you can explore the best nurse practitioner programs in Idaho to find a program that suits your needs and goals. These programs can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to take on more complex roles in the healthcare industry. Additionally, advancing your education can lead to higher salary potential, increased job satisfaction, and a broader range of career opportunities in Idaho's healthcare sector.

Can LPNs Transition into Nurse Midwifery Roles in Idaho?

For LPNs aiming to further diversify their clinical expertise and expand their scope of practice, transitioning into nurse midwifery offers a viable pathway. This advanced specialization requires additional academic and clinical commitments, including meeting specific prerequisites and rigorous training protocols. Prospective candidates should thoroughly examine nurse midwife education requirements in Idaho to understand the credentialing process, clinical hour prerequisites, and certification standards essential for a successful transition.

What makes accelerated nursing programs a viable option for LPNs in Idaho?

Accelerated pathways integrate intensive coursework with condensed clinical experiences to equip LPNs for advanced practice roles in less time. These programs offer a streamlined approach that minimizes downtime between academic and clinical components, fostering rapid skill enhancement and immediate applicability in specialized settings. For LPNs looking to expand their scope of practice and assume leadership responsibilities quicker, exploring options like the 12-month FNP program online can prove instrumental. Evaluating these programs’ curriculum structure, clinical partnerships, and support services is critical when considering an efficient transition to advanced practice.

How do different nursing degree paths compare for advancing your career?

When considering further education, LPNs should evaluate various degree options to determine which one aligns best with their long-term career goals. Choosing between an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS), or an Associate of Arts Degree in Nursing (AAD) requires assessing factors such as program duration, curriculum focus, affordability, and potential salary impact. For detailed insights, review the ADN vs AAD vs AAS nursing degree programs difference. This analysis can guide your decision on how each pathway may enhance clinical expertise, facilitate transitions into advanced practice roles, and improve overall career growth opportunities.

How can emerging healthcare technologies enhance LPN roles in Idaho?

Advancements in healthcare technology are reshaping clinical practices and patient engagement, offering LPNs opportunities to work with digital tools that streamline care. Integration of telehealth services, remote patient monitoring systems, and electronic health records supports quicker decision-making and improved patient outcomes. These technologies demand continuous skill upgrades, making it essential for LPNs to pursue targeted training that aligns with modern healthcare delivery trends. For guidance on foundational steps to enter the field, review our guide on how to become a certified LPN in Idaho.

What is the potential return on investment for LPN programs in Idaho?

Evaluating the return on investment for LPN programs in Idaho requires a careful assessment of tuition costs, program duration, and post-graduation earnings. Many accelerated programs offer condensed learning paths that can lead to earlier entry into the workforce, allowing graduates to recoup their educational expenses faster. Prospective students should also consider factors such as clinical practicum opportunities and the reputation of institutions, including insights from the best nursing schools in Idaho, to ensure a quality education coupled with strong career prospects. A well-considered investment in an LPN program can translate into competitive salaries and a rapid payback period, especially in regions where demand for practical nursing skills is high.

Secure Your Practical Nursing Career with LPN Programs in Idaho

Idaho’s health statistics in 2022 showed that the ratio of patients to primary care physicians was 1,517 to 1; the patient-to-dentist ratio was 1,511 to 1 (Data USA, 2023b). The high proportions of patients to healthcare workers are prevalent throughout the U.S. and are a major cause for concern. What are good majors for nursing? Licensed practical nurses in Idaho are in great need as indicated by Bureau of Labor Statistics projections for LPNs.

LPN programs in Idaho have performed exceptionally well in terms of NCLEX-PN pass rates, employment placements of graduates, and employer satisfaction. The state is encouraging young students to take up nursing to help ameliorate its workforce shortage. LPNs will always be in demand and will continue earning competitive salaries.

We encourage you to pursue an LPN career in Idaho to help patients get better and live healthier lives. Now is the time for you to start—good luck on your LPN journey!

Key Insights

• Rising Demand for LPNs: The number of LPNs in the U.S. is projected to increase significantly, including in Idaho, where demand exceeds supply due to a severe nursing shortage.
• Educational Pathway: Becoming an LPN in Idaho involves completing an accredited program, passing the NCLEX-PN exam, and meeting specific state licensure requirements.
• Cost and Duration: LPN programs in Idaho typically cost between $12,887 and $36,888, with most programs taking about one to two years to complete.
• Hybrid Learning Options: While there are no fully online LPN programs in Idaho, several institutions offer hybrid models combining online coursework with required in-person clinical practice.
• Competitive Salaries: LPNs in Idaho earn competitive salaries, with average annual earnings of $68,170, which can vary by city and experience level.
• Cost of Living: Idaho offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to the national average, making it a cost-competitive place to live and work.
• Positive Employment Outlook: Employment opportunities for LPNs in Idaho are robust, with significant job growth projected and a variety of healthcare settings available for work.

FAQ

1. How do I become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in Idaho?

To become an LPN in Idaho, you must complete an accredited LPN program, pass the NCLEX-PN exam, and apply for licensure through the Idaho Board of Nursing. You will also need to undergo a background check, provide proof of immunizations, and submit the necessary documentation and fees.

2. What is the typical cost of an LPN program in Idaho?

The cost of an LPN program in Idaho varies, with tuition ranging from $12,887 to $36,888. Additional costs may include books, supplies, and living expenses. Financial aid options, scholarships, and grants can help offset these costs.

3. How long does it take to become an LPN in Idaho?

It generally takes one to two years to complete an LPN program in Idaho. Accelerated programs may offer completion in less than one year for full-time students. The timeline includes coursework, clinical practice, and preparation for the NCLEX-PN exam.

4. Can I become an LPN in Idaho with an online degree?

No, you cannot complete an LPN program 100% online in Idaho due to the requirement for hands-on clinical practice. However, some programs offer hybrid models that include online coursework combined with in-person clinical experiences.

5. What are the requirements for LPN licensure in Idaho?

To obtain LPN licensure in Idaho, you must complete an accredited LPN program, pass the NCLEX-PN exam, submit an application with the Idaho Board of Nursing, undergo a background check, and provide proof of required immunizations. You will also need to pay the applicable fees.

6. Are there financial aid options available for LPN programs in Idaho?

Yes, financial aid options are available for LPN programs in Idaho. Students can apply for federal financial aid, scholarships, grants, and potentially employer-sponsored tuition assistance programs. It is advisable to check with individual institutions for specific financial aid opportunities.

7. What can I do with a licensed practical nursing degree in Idaho?

With an LPN degree in Idaho, you can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and private homes. LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs or physicians and can pursue advanced degrees for career advancement.

8. How often do I need to renew my LPN license in Idaho?

LPN licenses in Idaho are valid for two years. Renewal requires completing continuing education requirements, working at least 400 hours as an LPN, and paying the renewal fee. Renewal applications are submitted through the Idaho Board of Nursing Nurse Portal.

9. Is Idaho a good state for LPNs?

Yes, Idaho is a good state for LPNs due to competitive salaries, a positive employment outlook, and a relatively affordable cost of living. The demand for LPNs is high, providing ample job opportunities across various healthcare settings.

10. What should I look for in an LPN program in Idaho?

When choosing an LPN program in Idaho, consider accreditation status, faculty credentials, certification exam pass rates, program costs, and the availability of financial aid. Accreditation by recognized bodies such as the ACEN ensures the program meets quality standards.

References:

1. Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics. (2022). Leading causes of Death in Idaho. Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics.
2. Data USA. (2023a). Licensed practical & licensed vocational nurses. Data USA.
3. Data USA. (2023b). Idaho | Data USA. Data USA.
4. Idaho Board of Nursing. (2023). NCLEX First Time Pass Rates. Idaho Board of Nursing.
5. Livingcost.org. (2023, August 8). Cost of Living & Prices in Idaho: 13 cities compared [2023]. Livingcost.org.
6. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Idaho May 2022 OEWS state occupational employment and wage estimates. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.