Connecticut LPN License Requirements 2026

Everything you need to know to get — and keep — your CT LPN license

$150CT Licensure Application Fee
$200NCLEX-PN Exam Fee
2 yrsLicense Renewal Cycle
10 hrsCE Required for Renewal

How to Get Your Connecticut LPN License: Step by Step

Connecticut LPN licensure is issued by the Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH). Here's exactly what you need to do:

1

Graduate from a CT DPH-Approved LPN Program

You must complete a state-approved practical nursing program. Graduating from an unapproved program will disqualify you from Connecticut licensure. Verify approval at portal.ct.gov/DPH.

  • Program must be approved by CT Department of Public Health
  • Must include minimum clinical hours required by state
  • Request official transcripts upon graduation
2

Submit CT DPH Licensure Application

Apply online through CT eLicense.

  • Complete online application
  • Pay $150 application fee
  • Submit official transcripts from your nursing program
  • Complete criminal background check (LiveScan fingerprinting)
  • Submit proof of identity

Processing time: 2-4 weeks after all documents received

3

Register for NCLEX-PN Through Pearson VUE

After CT DPH approves your application, you'll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email.

  • Register at PearsonVUE.com/NCLEX
  • Pay $200 exam fee
  • ATT email arrives within 1-4 weeks of DPH approval
  • Schedule exam at CT testing centers: Hamden, Hartford, or Danbury
  • ATT is valid for 90 days — schedule promptly
4

Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam

  • Computer adaptive test: 85-205 questions, up to 5 hours
  • Connecticut average pass rate: 89% (above national 86%)
  • Unofficial results via Pearson VUE Quick Results ($7.95, 48 hrs post-exam)
  • Official results sent to CT DPH within 1-2 weeks
  • If you don't pass: retake after 45-day waiting period
5

Receive Your Connecticut LPN License 🎉

  • License issued after CT DPH receives passing NCLEX results
  • License verification available immediately on CT eLicense
  • Physical license certificate mailed within 2-3 weeks
  • You can begin working as a licensed LPN in Connecticut!
✅ Total Cost to Get Licensed: $150 (application) + $200 (NCLEX) + ~$80 (background check) = approximately $430 in licensing fees, on top of your program tuition.

🎓 Find LPN Programs in Connecticut

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License Renewal Requirements

Connecticut LPN licenses must be renewed every 2 years. Your renewal date is based on your birth month.

What You Need to Renew

Approved CE Topics

⚠️ Late Renewal: Practicing with an expired LPN license is illegal in Connecticut. Set a reminder 60 days before your renewal date. CT eLicense will send email reminders, but it's your responsibility to renew on time.

Endorsement: Licensed in Another State?

If you hold an active LPN license from another state and want to work in Connecticut, you can apply for licensure by endorsement rather than retaking NCLEX.

Endorsement Requirements

📌 Is Connecticut a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) State? No. Connecticut is not a compact state, meaning your license from a compact state does not automatically allow you to work in CT. You must apply for endorsement. Processing typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Endorsement Timeline

StepTimelineCost
Submit endorsement applicationDay 1$150
Background check processing1-2 weeks~$80
License verification from home state1-3 weeksVaries
CT DPH review and approval2-4 weeks—
Total estimated time4-8 weeks~$230

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a CT LPN license after passing NCLEX?

After passing NCLEX-PN, CT DPH typically processes your license within 1-3 weeks. You can verify your license status immediately on CT eLicense once issued — you don't need to wait for the physical certificate to start working.

Can I work as an LPN while my CT license application is pending?

No. You must have an active Connecticut LPN license before practicing as an LPN. Working without a license is illegal and can result in criminal charges. Some employers allow you to work as a nursing assistant (CNA) while awaiting licensure.

What happens if I fail the NCLEX-PN in Connecticut?

You must wait 45 days before retaking the exam. You'll need to re-register with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee again. There is no limit on retakes in Connecticut, but some programs require you to complete additional remediation after multiple failures.

Where can I verify a Connecticut LPN license?

Anyone can verify a Connecticut nursing license for free at CT eLicense. Search by name or license number. This is how employers verify your credentials before hiring.

Do I need CE credits to renew my CT LPN license?

Yes — 10 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal period. CE must be from an approved provider. Keep all certificates in case of a CT DPH audit. Online CE courses from providers like Nurse.com, CEUFast, or NursingCE.com are accepted.

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