Best LPN Programs in Florida 2026

Find Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Florida with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review licensing steps and the career outlook for practical nurses throughout the state.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2027 Best LPN Programs in Florida

At practicalnursing.org, we rank the best LPN programs in Florida. Our team digs into pass rates, tuition costs, and student support to find top choices. These programs give solid training for a licensed practical nurse career. Whether starting out or switching fields, there is a good fit here. We refresh our rankings each year to keep advice current. Our goal? Simple: help you make a smart choice. Use the list below to compare options and pick a program that fits your goals. For a full breakdown of how we put these rankings together, check out our methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Chipola College

Marianna, FL - Public 4-Year - chipola.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Chipola College's Practical Nursing program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and licensure as an LPN. Over three semesters (1350 clock hours), the curriculum blends classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical experiences in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Students learn patient care, medication administration, and nursing fundamentals under faculty guidance. Clinical rotations occur two days per week, including evenings and weekends, providing real-world exposure. The program boasts a 100% first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate and 100% job placement within 12 months for recent graduates. Located in Marianna, Florida, the program offers state-funded tuition assistance for eligible residents. Admission requires the TABE test, a clear drug screen, and a background check. With a focus on hands-on training and supportive faculty, this program equips students for immediate entry into the nursing workforce.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
Entrance exam required
3-Semester program
Apply by 2026-10-01
Starts spring
100% licensure pass rate
100% job placement rate
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
1350 clock hours total

Gulf Coast State College

Panama City, FL - Public 4-Year - gulfcoast.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nurse Certificate at Gulf Coast State College prepares you for a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Over 45 weeks, you'll build skills in practical nursing, medical-surgical nursing, and comprehensive transitional care. The program covers patient care under RN or physician supervision, with hands-on experience in diverse settings. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam and can pursue roles in hospitals, nursing homes, hospice, doctor's offices, and mental health facilities. With small class sizes, low tuition, and a selective admission process, you'll receive personalized support from caring faculty. The program is offered at the Gulf/Franklin Campus in Port St. Joe, Florida, and is ideal for high school graduates seeking a direct path to LPN licensure.

45-Week program
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Selective admission program
Small class sizes
Low tuition rates
90% graduate recommendation rate
Offered at Gulf/Franklin Campus
High school graduates eligible
45 weeks to complete

FVI School of Nursing and Technology

Miami, FL - Private 2-year - fvi.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

FVI School of Nursing and Technology's Practical Nursing diploma program prepares you for a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in just 18 months. The curriculum covers patient care techniques, medication administration, vital signs monitoring, wound care, patient communication, and clinical documentation. You'll gain hands-on experience through simulation labs and clinical rotations at hospitals, physician's offices, rehabilitation centers, assisted living facilities, home healthcare agencies, and schools. The program is taught on campus at FVI's Miami and Miramar locations by experienced faculty. With integrated NCLEX-PN preparation, dedicated success coaches, and job placement assistance, you'll be well-equipped to enter the workforce. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.

18-Month program
57 total credit hours
Rolling admissions
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Scholarships available
Hands-on simulation lab training
NCLEX-PN preparation integrated
Clinical rotations at hospitals
Job placement assistance

Florida Gateway College

Lake City, FL - Public 4-Year - fgc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, O.C.

Campus Based - Visit Website

Florida Gateway College's Practical Nursing certificate is a 12-month, 45-credit program that prepares students for entry-level nursing roles. The curriculum covers direct patient care, medication administration, and medical treatments, with hands-on learning in a low student-to-faculty ratio environment. Clinical experiences provide real-world training in settings like doctor's offices, home health, long-term care, and correctional facilities. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The program boasts a 100% state licensure pass rate and consistently high first-time NCLEX-PN pass rates. With a spring start and enrollment of 25+ students on average, this state-approved certificate offers a focused path to a rewarding healthcare career.

Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
$3,820 total program tuition
12-Month program
45 total credit hours
1 start dates per year
Starts spring
100% licensure pass rate
average Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Florida is $41,917
Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Miami Dade College

Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - mdc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing - Career technical Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Career Technical Certificate at Miami Dade College prepares students for entry-level nursing roles. This one-year program covers fundamentals of nursing, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, adult health, and professional role transition. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam and pursue careers in hospitals, assisted living facilities, home health care, and outpatient centers. The program is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and is a candidate for ACEN accreditation. Students must complete prerequisite courses and take pre-admission tests (TABE and TEAS). Offered at the Medical Campus, the program provides hands-on training and dedicated faculty support.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
Entrance exam required
Exams: TEAS
1-Year program
80% licensure pass rate
89% job placement rate
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Scholarships available

*IPEDS 2025 dataset, accessed via NCES Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Florida LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Florida, candidates must typically possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Many programs require applicants to pass a basic skills test, often the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), and complete a background check and drug screening. Additional requirements may include proof of immunizations, CPR certification for healthcare providers, and completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology. Specific standards vary by institution, so prospective students should consult individual program admissions for detailed criteria.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN programs in Florida focus on core nursing principles combined with practical, hands-on training. Students are prepared through courses in pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, geriatrics, and nursing fundamentals. Clinical rotations in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics give students direct patient care experience.

Program accreditation is essential for ensuring high educational standards. In Florida, LPN programs should be approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. Accredited programs meet established quality benchmarks and qualify graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Choosing an accredited program is also important for transferring credits or advancing to a Registered Nurse (RN) program in the future.

LPN Schools and Classes

A wide range of vocational schools, community colleges, and technical centers across Florida offer LPN programs. These institutions provide adult education options that accommodate both recent high school graduates and working professionals. Programs generally combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training in real healthcare settings.

Coursework typically includes anatomy and physiology, human growth and development, nutrition, pharmacology, and nursing fundamentals. Specialized courses may focus on areas like psychiatric nursing, maternity and pediatric care, and medical-surgical nursing. Clinical experiences allow students to apply their skills under supervision, helping build confidence and competency in patient care.

Career Outlook

Licensed Practical Nurses in Florida can work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, physicians’ offices, and home health agencies. Florida’s aging population contributes to strong demand for skilled LPNs, especially in geriatric and home care settings. LPNs in Florida often find flexible work schedules, including part-time, full-time, and shift-based options, offering opportunities for work-life balance.

According to FloridaCommerce, the employment of LPNs is projected to grow steadily through the coming years. The state’s large and diverse healthcare system supports multiple paths for LPNs, including specialization and advancement to Registered Nurse roles through bridge programs.

LPN Program Length

LPN program length in Florida varies based on the enrollment schedule. A full-time student can typically complete the program in about 12 months. Part-time and evening/weekend programs, which are designed for working adults, may take up to 18-24 months. Accelerated programs may offer compressed timelines, but students must still meet clinical hour requirements and pass all didactic and hands-on competency evaluations.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Florida

In today's fast-paced world, time is precious. For those looking to become licensed practical nurses, finding the fastest path to certification is often a top priority. That's why we've compiled a table of the shortest LPN programs across Florida, from Miami to Tampa. These accelerated options allow students to enter the workforce quickly, saving both time and money. The table below highlights key program details, including graduation and retention rates, to help compare efficiency. Choosing a shorter program can lead to quicker employment and a faster start to a rewarding healthcare career.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
FVI School of Nursing and Technology Practical Nursing	18-Month program 57 total credit hours Rolling admissions Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available Scholarships available Hands-on simulation lab training NCLEX-PN preparation integrated	Graduation Rate: 89% Retention Rate: 81% Student to Faculty Ratio: 13 :1
Fort Myers Technical College Practical Nursing	Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 12-Month program 5 total courses Apply by 2026-05-15 1 start dates per year Starts summer Cohort-based structure	Graduation Rate: 81% Retention Rate: 87% Student to Faculty Ratio: 21 :1
Manatee Technical College Practical Nursing	Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS $7,334 total program tuition 11-Month program 2 start dates per year Starts fall/spring 98% job placement rate $45 application fee	Graduation Rate: 64% Retention Rate: 78% Student to Faculty Ratio: 10 :1

*Source documentation: IPEDS 2025 Technical Review Panel report, NCES.

Tuition and Costs

Tuition for LPN programs in Florida ranges from approximately $4,000 to $15,000, depending on the type of institution and program length. Public technical colleges generally offer more affordable rates for in-state residents, while private institutions may charge higher tuition. Additional expenses include textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, supplies, licensing exam fees, and background checks.

Students should also budget for personal living expenses. Housing costs in Florida can vary significantly by location, with larger urban areas such as Miami, Orlando, and Tampa generally carrying a higher cost of living. Financial aid and scholarship options are available to eligible students through state and federal programs.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Florida

Finding an affordable LPN program in Florida is essential for many future nurses. With tuition costs rising, students need options that fit their budgets. The table below lists several certificate and diploma programs across the state, including program highlights and tuition ranges. By choosing a program that fits your budget, you can reduce debt while receiving quality training. We hope this helps you compare and pick a path that works for your career. Whether you live in Miami, Tampa, or Orlando, these schools provide a solid start.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Chipola College Practical Nursing	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited Entrance exam required 3-Semester program Apply by 2026-10-01 Starts spring 100% licensure pass rate 100% job placement rate Prepares for NCLEX-PN	$2,500 - $3,700 (Undergrad In-State) $7,200 - $10,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Miami Dade College Licensed Practical Nursing - Career technical Certificate	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 1-Year program 80% licensure pass rate 89% job placement rate Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-PN	$2,300 - $3,400 (Undergrad In-State) $7,700 - $11,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Gulf Coast State College Practical Nurse Certificate	45-Week program Prepares for NCLEX-PN Selective admission program Small class sizes Low tuition rates 90% graduate recommendation rate Offered at Gulf/Franklin Campus High school graduates eligible	$1,900 - $2,800 (Undergrad In-State) $6,900 - $10,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Data from: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2025.

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

Florida does not permit fully online LPN programs because of the hands-on clinical training and in-person skills practice required for licensure. LPN education combines theory with supervised patient care experiences that cannot be replicated in a virtual environment. While some general education or didactic coursework may be offered in a hybrid format, students must attend in-person labs and clinical rotations to meet Florida Board of Nursing requirements.

LPN Licensure Requirements in Florida

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Florida, graduates of approved nursing programs must pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The Florida Board of Nursing requires that applicants submit proof of completion from a Board-approved practical nursing program before they are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN. Once the application is submitted and approved through the Florida Board of Nursing, the applicant will receive authorization to test from Pearson VUE.

Florida nursing candidates can access application instructions and register for the NCLEX-PN through the Florida Board of Nursing. It is critical that candidates ensure all eligibility requirements are met before test registration. The test measures competencies needed to practice safely and effectively as an entry-level LPN.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Florida offers LPN licensure by endorsement to nurses who hold an active license in another state. To apply, individuals must provide verification of their out-of-state license, proof of education, and a background screening. Applicants must not have any disciplinary actions against their current license.

Florida is also a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses with a multistate license to practice in all participating compact states without having to obtain additional licensure. LPNs with a primary state of residence in Florida and who meet uniform licensure requirements can apply for a multistate license, increasing mobility and employment opportunities across state lines.

Licensure Requirements

The Florida Board of Nursing governs the licensure and regulation of LPNs in the state. To be eligible for initial licensure, applicants must:

Graduate from a Florida-approved or accredited practical nursing program
Submit a completed application and pay all applicable fees
Undergo a Level II background check, including fingerprinting
Pass the NCLEX-PN examination

The Florida Board of Nursing maintains a list of approved LPN programs and application forms on its official website. Applications can be submitted online and are processed in the order they are received.

License Renewal

Florida LPN licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal period ends July 31 of even-numbered years. To renew, LPNs must complete 24 hours of continuing education (CE). Required topics include:

Two hours on prevention of medical errors
Two hours on laws and rules that govern the practice of nursing in Florida
Two hours on recognizing impairment in the workplace
One hour on HIV/AIDS (required for first-time renewal only)
Two hours on domestic violence (required every third biennium)

All CE hours must be completed from a Florida Board-approved provider. Documentation of completed education is typically submitted electronically by the provider to CE Broker. Licensees are responsible for ensuring their CE records are complete and accurate via CE Broker. Failure to meet CE requirements may result in license inactivation.

Florida LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs

The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Florida is $60,320, which is slightly below the national average of $62,340. This variance is influenced by several state-specific economic factors, including a cost of living index that is near the national average but can be lower in many regions, which may suppress overall wage growth. While Florida's rapidly growing senior population drives high demand for LPNs, particularly in long-term care, a robust supply of healthcare workers and specific state regulations can also impact compensation levels, keeping them just under the U.S. figure.

Average LPN State Salary in Florida

$60,320

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024

Average LPN National Salary

$62,340 per year

2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Florida LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

12-15 months.

Credential Awarded:

Diploma or Certificate of Completion.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Concentrated training on core clinical skills, hands-on patient care, and preparation for the NCLEX-PN exam.

Average In-State Tuition in Florida:

$4,000 - $7,000 (program cost, not including fees or supplies).

Best For:

Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to becoming a licensed practical nurse and entering the workforce.

School Types:

Public technical colleges, vocational schools, and some private career colleges.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

24 months (2 years).

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science (AS).

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes.

Program Focus:

Combines the core LPN clinical curriculum with general education courses like English, math, and social sciences for a broader academic foundation.

Average In-State Tuition in Florida:

$8,000 - $12,000 (full degree cost, not including fees or supplies).

Best For:

Students who want a formal college degree alongside their LPN training and may want an easier transfer of credits into a future RN program.

School Types:

State colleges or community colleges (where offered).

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Speed to Employment: It is the fastest route to qualify for the NCLEX-PN and begin working as an LPN, typically in about one year.
Lower Cost: Tuition and associated fees are significantly less expensive than a two-year degree program.
Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates entirely on the nursing skills and knowledge required for the job, with no additional general education requirements.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Stronger Academic Foundation: Earning a college degree provides a broader education and may enhance critical thinking and communication skills.
Smoother Educational Ladder: General education credits earned are more likely to be accepted and transfer directly into an LPN-to-RN bridge program in the future.
Potential for Broader Roles: While the license is the same, some employers may favor the degree for future LPN leadership or specialized roles.
Personal Achievement: It fulfills the goal of earning a college degree, which is a valuable credential in itself.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Florida

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$47,000 - $66,000	12-15 months	NCLEX-PN	500-700 hours	$4,500 - $15,000
MA	$31,000 - $50,000	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) Exam	160-250 hours	$3,500 - $17,000
CNA	$30,000 - $43,000	4-12 weeks	Florida Nurse Aide Examination	40-60 hours	$500 - $1,500
DA	$36,000 - $59,000	8-11 months	DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) or Florida-specific expanded functions exams	300-500 hours	$4,000 - $18,000
Pharm Tech	$31,000 - $50,000	9-12 months	PTCB (CPhT) or ExCPT (NHA) Exam	160-300 hours	$3,000 - $12,000
Phlebotomist	$31,000 - $49,000	2-4 months	PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or RPT (AMT) Exam	30-100 successful collections	$700 - $2,500
OTA	$55,000 - $88,000	18-24 months	NBCOT COTA Exam	Minimum 640 hours	$8,000 - $45,000

List of LPN Programs in Florida

Jump to City:

Avon Park, FL

South Florida State College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN)
Campus Based - Website
- 1-Year program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Career certificate in practical nursing

Boynton Beach, FL

Southeastern College-West Palm Beach

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Diploma
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 12-Month program
- 43 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- ATI TEAS exam required for admission
- Federal student aid available

Bradenton, FL

Manatee Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $7,334 total program tuition
- 11-Month program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 98% job placement rate
- $45 application fee

Coconut Creek, FL

Atlantic Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS, HESI
- $3,780 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 5 start dates per year
- Starts summer/fall/winter/spring
- 99% licensure pass rate

Davie, FL

William T McFatter Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $3,780 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 5 start dates per year
- 97% licensure pass rate
- 77% job placement rate

Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 12-Month program
- 5 total courses
- Apply by 2026-05-15
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts summer
- Cohort-based structure

Gainesville, FL

Galen Health Institutes-Gainesville

Certificate/Diploma - Practical/Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 12-Month program
- 4 start dates per year
- $0 application fee
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available

Santa Fe College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, C.T.C.
Campus Based - Website
- Florida Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: SAT, ACT
- 12-Month program
- $62,340 median earnings
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available

Hialeah, FL

Florida National University

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate Program
Campus Based - Website
- 45 total credit hours
- 10 total courses
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Curriculum includes Fundamentals of Nursing
- Career opportunities in hospitals and nursing homes
- Growing demand: 22% growth annually
- Courses include Pharmacology and Pediatric Nursing
- Median pay $48,070 in 2021

Hollywood, FL

Sheridan Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- FLBON, FLDOE, ACEN accredited
- 12-Month program
- 5 start dates per year
- Starts summer/fall/winter/spring
- 92% licensure pass rate
- 50% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Approved by Florida Board of Nursing

Jacksonville, FL

Florida State College at Jacksonville

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Florida State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- $3,942 total program tuition
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 94% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Lake City, FL

Florida Gateway College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, O.C.
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $3,820 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 45 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts spring
- 100% licensure pass rate

Madison, FL

North Florida College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses
- State-approved by Florida Board of Nursing
- Fall term start only
- Campus-based in Madison, FL
- LPN to RN bridge available