Becoming an LPN in each state is different.
And because of that, it can be confusing which steps or requirements you need to fulfill.
Well, we’re here to help.
If you’re from Kansas, then we’ve created a complete 2023 guide for you. We won’t skip anything, so you will know exactly what you need to do.
Now, let’s see how to become an LPN in Kansas!
How to Become an LPN in Kansas in 5 Steps
Here are the 5 steps to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Kansas:
- Enroll in an LPN program
- Register for your Kansas LPN license
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
- Secure your first job
- Keep your LPN license active
Let’s look at these steps in detail.
NOTE: It’s important to know that in addition to the LPN, there are other nursing paths you could choose. Make sure you know what makes LPN unique by checking out the different nursing paths here.
Step #1: Enroll in an LPN Program
The first step to becoming an LPN in Kansas is to enroll in a state-approved LPN training program.
Now, there are hundreds of program options out there. However, it must meet state requirements. In other words, the program should have a state-approved accreditation.
If not, then it won’t satisfy your education requirements.
To find out if your course is accredited, check the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Kansas State Board of Nursing for a list of all state-approved programs.
To help you out, here are some of the most notable and highly acclaimed programs out there:
- Dodge City Community College
- North Central Kansas Technical College
- Manhattan Area Technical College
- Seward County Community College
- Flint Hills Technical College
Program Enrollment Requirements
Although the enrollment requirements differ from school to school, the following are some of the basics:
- Have a high school diploma
- Be at least 17 years old
- Have a CPR certification for healthcare providers
- Provide transcripts of previous college work (if any)
Step #2: Register for Your Kansas LPN License
To register for your Kansas LPN license, submit the following documents to the Kansas Board of Nursing:
- A filled-out application form (done online)
- Official transcript from your state-approved nursing program
- A valid photo
- Fingerprint, waivers, and background check (with the $48 fee)
- $75 application fee
- NCLEX registration with Pearson Vue ($200 registration fee)
Once your initial application is approved, you can move on to the next step — taking the NCLEX-PN exam.
NOTE: LPN license application must be sent within two years of graduating from a training program.
Licensure by Endorsement
Are you already an LPN in another state?
Want to work in Kansas without going through the exam again?
If so, you can go through licensure by endorsement. You simply need to submit the following to the Kansas Board of Nursing:
- Official transcript from a nursing program
- Criminal background check
- A fingerprint card and signed waiver
- Verification of licensure in another state
- Completion of an approved refresher course if the applicant hasn’t practiced as an LPN in the past 5 years
Great news!
Kansas is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) states, which means if you were granted a multi-state LPN license, then you can practice as an LPN in Kansas without having to get a Kansas LPN license. Of course, this is only for states that are part of the NLC.
Step #3: Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam
Next up, you need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam. You can schedule an appointment through the Pearson Vue website or by calling 866-496-2539.
If you pass, you will be given your LPN license.
NOTE: To prepare for the exam, you can take practice tests online.
What if you fail?
You are allowed to retake it 8 more times within a 45-day wait time. If you fail all 8, then you will need to go back to school.
Step #4: Secure Your First Job
You’ve completed the program, passed the exam, and are now officially a licensed practical nurse in Kansas.
What’s next?
Finding your first job, of course!
LPNs work in all types of fields, not just the hospital.
So to help you out, we listed the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports on primary LPN fields in Kansas:
- Residential care facilities – 38%
- Hospitals – 17%
- Doctors’ offices – 13%
- Home health care services – 11%
- Government state, local, and federal – 7%
Decide where you want to work as an LPN. From there, find the best facility, hospital, office, etc., and apply there.
Good luck!
Step #5: Keep Your LPN License Active
To keep practicing as an LPN, you need to make sure your license is active.
Now, in Kansas, LPN licenses expire every 2 years.
To renew it, you need to complete 30 hours of LPN continuing education.
FAQs
Before we end this complete guide, let’s go over some frequently asked questions about LPNs in Kansas.
How much does an LPN make in Kansas?
Depending on a variety of factors, such as which city you live in, your years of experience, the policy of where you work, and your general education, LPN salaries vary.
That being said, on average, LPNs make $21.64 per hour in Kansas. In yearly terms, that amounts to approximately $45,010.
How long will it take to complete an LPN program in Kansas?
The length of an LPN program depends on whether you are studying the training program full-time or part-time.
Here is an estimate of how long it will take:
- Full-time – 12 months
- Part-time – 18 months
Are LPNs Still in Demand?
Yes. In fact, among the many nursing jobs out there, LPNs are at the top of the list.
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for LPNs will increase by 9% through 2029.
Considering a rewarding field, handsome salaries, and exciting work life, it’s no wonder why people continue choosing the LPN path.
The Wrap Up
And that was how to become an LPN in Kansas.
Yes, there are just 5 steps:
- Complete a state-approved LPN program
- Register for your LPN license
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
- Find a job
- Keep your license active
But each step requires focus and diligence.
If you go through them one step at a time, then it won’t feel too overwhelming.
Good luck!