A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a licensed health care practitioner who provides nursing care under the direction of an RN, CNS, NP, midwife, physician, physician assistant, specialist assistant, dentist or podiatrist. LPNs provide compassionate care that is respectful of each patient’s needs, values and wishes. They work a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, mental health facilities, clinics, private practices, correctional facilities, and private homes.
New York law does not allow LPNs to: practice nursing independently, perform nursing assessments or triage, develop nursing care plans or provide mental health counseling. LPNs are not allowed to provide clinical services that require nursing or medical assessments. For example, LPNs do not administer IV chemotherapy, IV anesthesia or IV antibody therapy.
You must be licensed and registered by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to practice nursing as an LPN or refer to yourself as an “LPN” or “licensed practical nurse” in New York State.
The fee for licensure and first registration is $143.
The fee for a limited permit is $35.
In 2018, there were 3,163 licenses issued for this occupation.
In 2019, there were 3,116 licenses issued for this occupation.
As of July 1, 2020, there were 62,891 active licenses for this occupation.
New York State Education Department
Office of the Professions
State Board for Nursing
89 Washington Avenue
Albany, New York 12234
Phone: (518) 474-3817 Press 1 then Ext. 120
Fax: (518) 474-3706
Email: nursebd@nysed.gov
29-2061 - Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
To learn more about this occupation search the Occupational Information Network (O*Net).
Fees stated and other information contained in this report are subject to change. Please contact the licensing authority listed above for the most current information.
This page was last updated on 12/28/20.
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