Thomas Reed, RN
June 2, 2025
Delaware’s healthcare system relies on LPNs to administer direct patient care across the state’s hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health locations. Since the state’s elderly population is rising, and since there will always be a demand for skilled nursing workers, LPNs play critical roles in timely delivery of care to patients. LPNs perform multiple responsibilities which include vital sign monitoring, medication administration, daily living assistance, and patient healthcare team communication.
The state of Delaware does not provide fully online LPN programs because hands-on clinical training stands as an essential requirement for licensure. Some educational institutions provide hybrid programs which merge online learning with hands-on laboratory work and clinical practice. Students enrolled in hybrid nursing programs can finish their coursework online, as well as receive instruction for hands-on clinical nursing. Specific Delaware Technical Community College campuses have evening and weekend programs, which are tailored for students who have daytime commitments.
| Certifying Board | Delaware Board of Nursing, Division of Professional Regulation |
|---|---|
| Certification | Computer‐adaptive NCLEX‐PN exam administered by Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from a Board‐approved practical nursing program with official transcript and School Affidavit submitted via DELPROS Application & Background Check: $181 initial application fee, FD-258 fingerprint‐based criminal background check via IdentoGO, proof of U.S. residency/ID in DELPROS |
| Exam Authorization | Eligibility review and Board approval in DELPROS, receive an Authorization to Test (ATT), valid for 90 days to schedule the NCLEX |
| Application Processing Time | Eligibility review within 30 days, typical licensure issuance in about 4–6 weeks after passing the exam |
| License Renewal & CE | Biennial renewal by February 28 of even‐numbered years with a renewal fee, 24 contact hours of continuing education required per cycle, with random CE and practice audits |
| Licensure by Endorsement | $181 endorsement fee, Nursys verification of a current unrestricted LPN license, fingerprint CBC, proof of recent practice or completion of a board‐approved refresher. |
The job market for LPNs in Delaware is robust. The average salary range for LPNs in Delaware falls between low to mid $60,000 annually. The job market continues to show positive growth because of the sustained requirements for long-term care services, chronic disease management, and outpatient services. LPNs work in different healthcare facilities, which include skilled nursing facilities, specialty clinics, and rehabilitation centers. The job market in Wilmington and Dover urban areas provides more opportunities but rural areas maintain steady employment due to insufficient numbers of healthcare providers.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Delaware | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $58,164 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $28.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$65,004 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $58,164 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$52,432 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~9% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~180 | ~54,000 |
The state of Delaware offers direct career advancement opportunities for individuals willing to advance their career. LPNs can also advance their careers by enrolling in bridge programs and becoming Registered Nurses and by earning special certifications in wound care and IV therapy or moving into supervisory positions at long-term care facilities. The opportunities allow LPNs to increase their professional influence, as well as increase earnings and experience. The state of Delaware along with healthcare employers continue to provide support which makes it an attractive location for starting and advancing a practical nursing career.
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