Best LPN Programs in Idaho 2026
Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Idaho with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Idaho.
2027 Best LPN Programs in Idaho
College of Southern Idaho
Twin Falls, ID - Public 4-Year - csi.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
College of Southern Idaho's Practical Nursing program, offered on campus, equips students for LPN licensure through integrated classroom and clinical training. Coursework spans nursing fundamentals, anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN. Admission is competitive, requiring a 2.5 minimum GPA, a TEAS exam score, and CNA certification or NURP 103 completion. Health-related work experience strengthens applications. Selected students attend mandatory orientation, undergo annual TB screening, background checks, and must maintain health insurance. The program does not keep a waitlist. Graduates find employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, benefiting from small cohorts and supportive faculty.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Competitive ranking admission process
- CNA certification or NURP 103 required
- Health-related work experience considered
- Mandatory in-person orientation
- Annual tuberculosis screening required
Idaho State University
Pocatello, ID - Public 4-Year - isu.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Idaho State University’s Practical Nursing certificate prepares LPNs through classroom theory, skills labs, and clinicals in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care. Students gain patient care, medication administration, and health assessment skills, with prerequisites in anatomy, English, and math. The veteran-friendly bridge awards credit for military medical experience. Admission includes a readiness test, current CPR and CNA certification, 2.0 GPA minimum, and background/drug screening. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-PN and report a 95% positive placement rate. The certificate also leads to an Associate of Science in Nursing. Offered on campus with one fall start, this 3–4 semester program fits working students; clinical hours may involve evenings, weekends, or overnights.
- Entrance exam required
- Complete in 3 to 4 Semesters
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 95% job placement rate
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Military benefits accepted
- Veteran-friendly bridge curriculum
College of Eastern Idaho
Idaho Falls, ID - Public 4-Year - cei.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
College of Eastern Idaho’s Practical Nursing program offers a direct-admission, accelerated path to LPN licensure, completable in three semesters or even two with an adjusted schedule. The 46-credit curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN. At $150 per credit, total tuition is approximately $6,900, making it one of Idaho’s most affordable options. The program reports a 100% licensure pass rate and an 89% job placement rate, with financial aid available. An LPN-to-RN bridge pathway supports career advancement. Approved by the Idaho Board of Nursing and a candidate for ACEN accreditation, the program offers fall and spring starts, mandatory orientations, and two start dates per year.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- $6,900 total program tuition
- $150 per credit
- 3-Semester program
- 46 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 89% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
North Idaho College
Coeur d'Alene, ID - Public 2-Year - nic.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
North Idaho College offers an 11-month campus-based Practical Nursing certificate that readies students for entry-level LPN roles. The curriculum spans medical-surgical, maternal-child, psychiatric, geriatric nursing, and pharmacology, pairing classroom instruction with clinical rotations. Applicants face a competitive process: CNA certification, prerequisite coursework, a 2.5 minimum GPA, and the TEAS entrance exam are all required. The program runs full- or part-time with a single August start, and clinical sites span Idaho and Washington. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-PN, achieving a 100% licensure pass rate. Career paths include hospitals, clinics, home health, and long-term care. Financial aid and military-friendly benefits are available, making this a solid launchpad for nursing.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 11-Month program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
College of Western Idaho
Nampa, ID - Public 4-Year - cwi.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
College of Western Idaho's Practical Nursing program delivers a rigorous pathway to LPN licensure through ACEN-accredited coursework and immersive clinical rotations at Saint Alphonsus and St. Luke's hospitals. Students master patient care, pharmacology, health assessment, and safety protocols in modern simulation labs. The curriculum offers two tracks: an Associate of Applied Science or a faster Intermediate Technical Certificate, both preparing graduates for the NCLEX-PN. With a 100% licensure pass rate and job placement, the program ensures career readiness in long-term care, clinics, and home health. Prerequisites are required, and applicants must take the Kaplan Nursing Admissions Exam. Total tuition is $10,157, with financial aid and scholarships available. Applications close October 19, 2026.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- $10,157 total program tuition
- Apply by 2026-10-19
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Idaho LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Prospective students in Idaho seeking to enroll in a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program must meet specific eligibility criteria before applying. These typically include holding a high school diploma or GED, passing a criminal background check, and demonstrating competency in reading, writing, and math through entrance exams like the ACCUPLACER or TEAS. Additionally, students should provide up-to-date immunization records, complete a physical health examination, and possess Healthcare Provider or Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR certification prior to clinical instruction. Some programs may require prerequisite coursework in anatomy and physiology or biology as part of the admission process.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Idaho prepare students with foundational nursing knowledge and practical skills required for licensure and employment. Core curriculum involves coursework in human anatomy, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and geriatric care. Hands-on training in clinical settings is a key component, allowing students to apply their learning under supervision.
Accreditation is vital for ensuring educational standards are met and is often a requirement for financial aid eligibility. LPN programs in Idaho must be approved by the Idaho Board of Nursing for graduates to be eligible for licensure. While not universally required for licensure, some programs may also seek accreditation by national agencies such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), which can be beneficial for transferability of credits and broader recognition. Attending an approved program is essential for eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam.
LPN Schools and Classes
Idaho offers LPN programs through a variety of public community colleges, vocational schools, and technical education centers across the state. These institutions provide state-approved programs that blend theoretical class instruction with clinical experience in local healthcare facilities.
Students in Idaho LPN programs can expect coursework in nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, mental health nursing, maternal-child health, and nutrition. In addition to general nursing modules, classes also cover documentation, patient safety, and ethical standards. Clinical practicums provide real-world exposure in settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics.
Career Outlook
The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in Idaho continues to grow, driven by an aging population and healthcare needs in rural communities. LPNs in Idaho typically work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare agencies. The role offers flexible scheduling opportunities, including day, night, and weekend shifts, making it appealing for those seeking work-life balance or career ladder progression.
According to state labor data, employment opportunities for LPNs in Idaho are expected to increase, offering job security and potential advancement into registered nursing through bridge programs. The profession offers a meaningful entry point into healthcare with the potential for long-term career growth.
LPN Program Length
Idaho offers LPN training programs in multiple formats to accommodate student needs. A full-time LPN program typically takes 10 to 12 months to complete. Part-time and evening/weekend tracks are available at some institutions and may extend the program duration to 18 to 24 months depending on the school’s structure and course availability. These flexible options are ideal for working adults or students with family obligations.
2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Idaho
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho State University |
|
|
| North Idaho College |
|
|
| College of Eastern Idaho |
|
|
Tuition and Costs
Tuition for LPN programs in Idaho for in-state residents typically ranges from approximately $4,000 to $9,000. For out-of-state residents, tuition can range from $13,000 to over $19,000, depending on the school. Additional costs include textbooks, uniforms, liability insurance, background check fees, immunizations, and exam preparation materials. Some schools also charge fees for lab supplies and clinical placements.
Housing and transportation costs should also be factored in, particularly for students relocating or commuting to campus. In Idaho, average student housing costs vary by city but generally range from $500 to $900 per month, depending on location and shared accommodations.
2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Idaho
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| College of Eastern Idaho |
|
|
| College of Western Idaho |
|
|
| Idaho State University |
|
|
Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
LPN programs in Idaho cannot be completed entirely online due to the critical hands-on clinical training required by state regulations. While some theoretical or general education courses may be offered in a hybrid format, the Idaho Board of Nursing mandates that students receive direct, supervised clinical experience in healthcare environments. This ensures competency in patient care, safety protocols, and nursing procedures, making full in-person participation essential for licensure and future employment.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Idaho
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Idaho, graduates of approved practical nursing programs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This standardized exam evaluates a candidate’s knowledge and readiness to perform safely and effectively as an entry-level LPN. Candidates must apply for licensure with the Idaho Board of Nursing and register with Pearson VUE to schedule the examination. Idaho applicants must also undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check as part of the application process.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Idaho is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs with a compact license in another participating state to practice in Idaho without obtaining additional licensure. Licensed Practical Nurses moving to Idaho from a non-compact state or those without a multistate license must apply for licensure by endorsement. This includes submitting verification of current licensure, official transcripts, and passing NCLEX-PN scores. Criminal background checks are required, and proof of active nursing practice or continuing education may also be required for endorsement applicants.
Licensure Requirements
The Idaho Board of Nursing oversees all LPN licensing in the state. To be eligible for initial licensure, applicants must complete an accredited practical nursing program, submit a completed application, pay applicable fees, and pass the NCLEX-PN. The Board also requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check and may request additional documentation to determine eligibility related to professional conduct or any past convictions.
License Renewal
Idaho LPN licenses must be renewed biennially before August 31 of odd-numbered years. To maintain licensure, nurses must complete at least 200 hours of nursing practice in the previous two years or earn a minimum of 15 contact hours of continuing education. The Idaho Board of Nursing may audit licensees at random to verify compliance with renewal requirements. Renewal applications and fees must be submitted online through the Idaho Board of Nursing’s licensing portal.
Idaho LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) salary in Idaho is $59,340, which is slightly below the national average of $62,340. This difference is influenced by several state-specific economic and healthcare market factors. Idaho's relatively lower cost of living index often correlates with wages that are below the national benchmark. Furthermore, regional dynamics such as state population trends, the specific demand for long-term care, and the balance of hospital openings and closures also contribute to shaping local compensation levels for healthcare professionals.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Idaho LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
Approximately 11-12 months (typically three semesters).
Credential Awarded:
Technical Certificate or Diploma in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Successful completion makes graduates eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam.
Program Focus:
Emphasizes core clinical skills and direct, hands-on patient care required for entry-level practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Average In-State Tuition in Idaho:
Approximately $6,500 - $9,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as an LPN.
School Types:
Community colleges and technical colleges (e.g., College of Western Idaho, Idaho State University College of Technology, North Idaho College).
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
The LPN pathway is typically the first year of a 2-year Associate Degree in Nursing (RN) program. Completing the full degree takes two years.
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science (AS) in Nursing. A certificate is often awarded after the first year if exiting as an LPN.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Most Idaho RN programs offer an "LPN exit option" after completing the first year, making students eligible for the NCLEX-PN.
Program Focus:
A broader foundation including LPN skills plus general education courses (e.g., anatomy, psychology, English) and deeper nursing theory to prepare for the RN role.
Average In-State Tuition in Idaho:
Approximately $14,000 - $18,000 for the full two-year degree. The cost for the first-year LPN portion is similar to a certificate program.
Best For:
Students who plan to become a Registered Nurse (RN) but want the option to work as an LPN after their first year of study.
School Types:
Community colleges and some state universities (e.g., College of Southern Idaho, Lewis-Clark State College).
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Entry to Workforce: It is the quickest path to becoming a licensed nurse and earning an income, typically in just one year.
- Lower Overall Cost: The total tuition and fees are significantly less than a two-year associate degree program.
- Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates entirely on the essential nursing skills and knowledge needed for the LPN role, without additional general education requirements.
- Ideal for Career Changers: It is an efficient option for adults changing careers who need a focused, short-term training program.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Seamless RN Pathway: It provides a direct and efficient academic bridge to becoming a Registered Nurse, as all credits apply toward the associate degree.
- Greater Flexibility: Offers an "exit option" to get licensed and work as an LPN while continuing your education toward an RN credential.
- Broader Educational Foundation: Includes general education courses that improve critical thinking and communication skills, which are valuable for career advancement.
- Enhanced Transferability: Credits from an associate degree are more easily transferred to a four-year university for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in the future.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Idaho
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $52,240 - $70,050 | 11-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 500-600 hours | $8,000 - $10,000 |
| MA | $37,900 - $47,690 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) | 160-200 hours | $5,000 - $17,000 |
| CNA | $35,880 - $44,050 | 3-8 weeks | Idaho Nurse Aide Competency Exam | 40+ hours | $800 - $1,500 |
| DA | $38,570 - $51,680 | 9-10 months | DANB CDA Exam (for certification) | 250-300 hours | $5,000 - $16,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $37,640 - $48,010 | 6-9 months | PTCE (CPhT) or ExCPT (CPhT-S) | 200-300 hours | $4,000 - $7,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $36,250 - $45,860 | 1-4 months | PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or similar | 40-100 hours | $700 - $2,500 |
| OTA | $57,290 - $75,980 | 24 months (Associate's degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours | $28,000 - $35,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Idaho
Boise, ID
Eagle Gate College-Boise
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 12-Month program
- 86% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- VR-enhanced training
- SIM and Skills Labs
- Hybrid format
Coeur D'alene, ID
North Idaho College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 11-Month program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 2.5 GPA minimum
Idaho Falls, ID
College of Eastern Idaho
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- $6,900 total program tuition
- $150 per credit
- 3-Semester program
- 46 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
Nampa, ID
College of Western Idaho
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- $10,157 total program tuition
- Apply by 2026-10-19
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Pocatello, ID
Idaho State University
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Complete in 3 to 4 Semesters
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 95% job placement rate
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Twin Falls, ID
College of Southern Idaho
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Competitive ranking admission process
- CNA certification or NURP 103 required
- Health-related work experience considered
Related Articles
- Most Affordable LPN/LVN Programs for 2026: Your Path to Nursing Success on a Budget
- LPN / LVN History & Background
- LPN to RN Bridge Programs: Accelerating Career Growth for Practical Nurses
- You Will ALWAYS Be Learning!
- Nursing in Long Term Care
- Full Time Mother and LPN
- Culture of LPNs and RNs in Team Nursing
- How to Prepare for Your LPN/LVN Program Entrance Exam