How much does a Licensed Vocational Nurse license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $700, including application fees, and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Licensed Vocational Nurse license in California?

The process typically takes 12-24 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Licensed Vocational Nurse license in California?

You need to pass the NCLEX-PN (NCSBN). N/A

Licensed Vocational Nurse License in California

California licenses 'Licensed Vocational Nurses' (LVN), equivalent to LPN. Exam application $300, license $300, fingerprint $49, renewal $305 biennial — approximately $700 total. Exams year-round at 23+ locations. Must be 17+ with 12th-grade education and approved program completion.

Exam: NCLEX-PN (NCSBN)
Total Cost: $700 (est.)
Timeline: 12-24 months
Renewal: Every 2 years (biennial, one month after birthdate)

Requirements

Licensed Vocational Nurse license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $300
Renewal Fee: $305
Total Estimated Cost: $700

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians

Website 9162637800 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Licensed Vocational Nurse license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$300

Renewal Fee

$305

Total Estimated Cost

$700

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($305)

Application FeeEst.$300

Total Estimated Cost$300

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Licensed Vocational Nurse Salary in California

Entry Level

$62,390

Median

$77,170

Experienced

$99,840

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Licensed Vocational Nurse in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$300.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 12-24 months.

Licensed Vocational Nurse Licensing in California: What to Know

California uses 'Licensed Vocational Nurse' (LVN) instead of LPN. Detailed fees: Exam Application $300 (CA graduate) or $330 (out-of-state/equivalency), Fingerprint $49, License $300, Renewal $305, Interim Permit $50. NCLEX fee paid separately to NCSBN. Exams year-round Mon-Sat at 23 CA locations plus nationwide. Application processing 4-6 weeks. Must be 17+ with 12th-grade education. Qualifying paths: CA accredited program, equivalent out-of-state program, armed forces training + 12 months experience, or pharmacology course + paid work experience. The Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians oversees licensing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Licensed Vocational Nurse license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $700, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Licensed Vocational Nurse license in California?: The process typically takes 12-24 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Licensed Vocational Nurse license in California?: You need to pass the NCLEX-PN (NCSBN). N/A