Transform Your Nursing Career in Idaho
Idaho's healthcare system is experiencing significant growth, creating excellent opportunities for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to advance to Registered Nurse (RN) positions. With Idaho's rapidly growing population and increasing demand for healthcare services—particularly in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello—now is an ideal time to transition from LPN to RN.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about LPN to RN bridge programs in Idaho, including accredited schools, salary expectations, certification requirements, and the significant advantages of Idaho's participation in the Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Whether you're in the Treasure Valley, eastern Idaho, or any other community across the state, you'll find valuable information to advance your nursing career.
Idaho LPN to RN Salary Increase
Per Year
Per Year
Idaho participates in the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), which means your Idaho RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This opens up travel nursing opportunities, telehealth positions, and flexibility to work across state lines—a significant career advantage.
1. Understanding LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Idaho
What is an LPN to RN Bridge Program?
An LPN to RN bridge program is a specialized nursing education pathway designed for Licensed Practical Nurses who want to become Registered Nurses. These programs recognize your existing nursing knowledge and clinical experience, allowing you to complete your RN education more efficiently than traditional nursing programs.
- Accelerated Timeline: Complete your RN education in 12-24 months instead of 2-4 years
- Credit for Experience: Your LPN training and work experience count toward your RN degree
- Flexible Formats: Many Idaho programs offer evening, weekend, and online options for working nurses
- Cost Savings: Shorter programs mean less tuition and faster return to higher earning potential
- Career Advancement: Qualify for supervisory roles, specialized nursing positions, and significantly higher salaries
- eNLC Benefits: Practice in 40+ states with one Idaho license
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Types of LPN to RN Programs in Idaho
Duration: 12-18 months (full-time) or 18-24 months (part-time)
Outcome: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree; eligible to take NCLEX-RN exam
Best For: LPNs who want to become RNs quickly and start earning higher salaries
Cost Range: $6,000-$15,000 total tuition (Idaho residents)
Duration: 2-3 years (varies based on transfer credits)
Outcome: Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree; eligible to take NCLEX-RN exam
Best For: LPNs seeking leadership positions, specialized nursing roles, or future graduate education
Cost Range: $20,000-$45,000 total tuition
Idaho-Specific Advantages
- eNLC Participation: Idaho is a Nurse Licensure Compact state—work in 40+ states with your Idaho RN license
- Affordable Programs: Idaho community colleges offer some of the most affordable nursing education in the region
- Growing Healthcare Market: Boise and surrounding Treasure Valley areas are among the fastest-growing healthcare markets in the U.S.
- Rural Health Opportunities: Idaho's rural communities offer loan forgiveness and incentive programs for RNs
- Lower Cost of Living: Compared to neighboring states, Idaho offers affordable housing and living expenses
- Multiple Program Locations: Programs available in Boise, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Twin Falls, and other cities
2. Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Idaho (2026)
Idaho offers several high-quality LPN to RN bridge programs. Here are the top accredited options for 2026:
Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Program Type: LPN to ADN Bridge (Associate Degree)
Accreditation: Approved by Idaho Board of Nursing; Regionally accredited
Duration: 12-18 months (varies by enrollment schedule)
Format: Hybrid (online coursework with in-person clinical rotations)
Clinical Sites: Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, Idaho Falls Community Hospital, and regional healthcare facilities
Estimated Tuition: $6,000-$10,000 (Idaho residents); $12,000-$18,000 (out-of-state)
Key Features:
- LPN to RN Bridge option with advanced standing for qualified LPNs
- Flexible scheduling designed for working nurses
- Strong clinical partnerships with major eastern Idaho hospitals
- Affordable tuition rates for Idaho residents
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates (consistently 85%+)
- Small class sizes with personalized faculty support
- Partnership with Idaho Healthcare Institute for resources and facilities
Location: Pocatello, Idaho (with regional outreach sites)
Program Type: LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Accreditation: Approved by Idaho Board of Nursing; ACEN accredited
Duration: 12-18 months depending on prerequisites and schedule
Format: In-person with clinical rotations in southeastern Idaho
Clinical Sites: Portneuf Medical Center, Bingham Memorial Hospital, VA facilities, community clinics
Estimated Tuition: $8,000-$12,000 (Idaho residents)
Key Features:
- Specifically designed as a bridge for LPNs to earn ADN and sit for NCLEX-RN
- Advanced standing option recognizes prior LPN education and experience
- Part of Idaho State University system with strong regional reputation
- Clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings
- Financial aid and scholarship opportunities for Idaho residents
- Evening and weekend course options for working nurses
Location: Ontario, Oregon (serves Idaho border communities)
Program Type: LPN to RN Transition/Bridge
Accreditation: ACEN accredited; serves Idaho and Oregon students
Duration: 12-18 months (note: 2026-27 cohort admissions closed; apply early for future cohorts)
Format: In-person with clinical rotations in Oregon and Idaho facilities
Clinical Sites: Saint Alphonsus Ontario, regional hospitals, long-term care facilities
Estimated Tuition: $7,000-$12,000 (varies by residency status)
Key Features:
- LPN-to-RN Bridge admission available (applications typically due by October 15)
- Serves Idaho residents in western/southwestern regions
- Affordable tuition and cost-effective pathway to RN
- Strong community partnerships and rural health focus
- Graduates eligible for licensure in Idaho or Oregon
- Apply early—Idaho nursing programs have limited seats and competitive admissions
- Maintain a current, active LPN license in Idaho (or eligible for endorsement)
- Complete all prerequisite courses before applying (A&P, Microbiology, etc.)
- Strong GPA (3.0+) significantly improves admission chances
- Some programs require TEAS or HESI entrance exams
- Contact programs directly for specific application deadlines and requirements
Additional Idaho Nursing Education Resources
- Nightingale College: LPN to ASN (online program with Idaho clinical options) - meets NLN CNEA accreditation standards
- College of Southern Idaho (CSI): Registered Nursing programs with potential LPN advanced standing
- North Idaho College: ADN program (check for LPN bridge options)
- Lewis-Clark State College: BSN program in Lewiston
3. LPN vs RN Salary in Idaho: Financial Benefits of Advancement
Current Salary Data (2026)
| Position | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $49,000 | $23.56 | $42,000 - $58,000 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $83,000 | $39.90 | $70,000 - $95,000 |
| Salary Difference | +$34,000 | +$16.34 | 69% increase |
Regional Salary Variations Across Idaho
Nursing salaries vary by region in Idaho, with higher compensation typically found in urban areas and certain rural shortage areas:
| Location/Region | RN Average Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boise/Meridian/Nampa (Treasure Valley) | $80,000 - $90,000 | Highest concentration of healthcare facilities; competitive market |
| Idaho Falls/Pocatello (Eastern Idaho) | $75,000 - $85,000 | Growing healthcare systems; regional medical centers |
| Coeur d'Alene/North Idaho | $78,000 - $88,000 | Popular area; higher cost of living near lakes |
| Twin Falls/South-Central Idaho | $72,000 - $82,000 | Regional healthcare hub; lower cost of living |
| Rural Idaho Communities | $75,000 - $90,000+ | Shortage incentives; loan forgiveness programs available |
Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis
Investment Breakdown:
- Program Cost: $6,000 - $15,000 (ADN) or $20,000 - $45,000 (BSN)
- Time to Complete: 12-24 months (ADN) or 2-3 years (BSN)
- Annual Salary Increase: $34,000/year on average
- Payback Period: 2-5 months (ADN) or 7-16 months (BSN) after graduation
- 10-Year Career Earnings Increase: $340,000+ (before accounting for raises and promotions)
Bottom Line: The LPN to RN transition in Idaho offers exceptional financial returns. Most ADN graduates recoup their investment within 6 months of RN employment, making this one of the best career investments in healthcare.
Top Employers for RNs in Idaho (2026)
Idaho's major healthcare systems actively recruit RNs and offer competitive salaries, benefits, and career advancement:
- Saint Alphonsus Health System (Boise, Nampa, Baker City) - Large regional health system with multiple facilities
- St. Luke's Health System (Boise, Meridian, Twin Falls, and regional locations) - Idaho's largest employer and healthcare provider
- Kootenai Health (Coeur d'Alene) - Major northern Idaho medical center
- Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (Idaho Falls) - Premier healthcare facility in eastern Idaho
- Idaho Falls Community Hospital - Community-focused acute care
- Portneuf Medical Center (Pocatello) - Regional medical center serving southeastern Idaho
- Magic Valley Medical Center (Twin Falls) - South-central Idaho's primary healthcare facility
- Boise VA Medical Center - Federal healthcare for veterans
- Primary Health Medical Group - Largest independent multispecialty group in Idaho
- Long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and rural critical access hospitals throughout Idaho
4. Idaho RN Licensure Requirements & NCLEX Exam
Idaho Board of Nursing Contact Information
Agency: Idaho Board of Nursing (Division of Occupational & Professional Licenses)
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0061
Phone: (208) 334-3233 or (208) 577-2476
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Website: https://dopl.idaho.gov/bon/
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM MST
Idaho is a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Once you obtain your Idaho RN license, you can practice nursing in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This includes neighboring states like Montana, Utah, and Wyoming, plus popular travel nursing destinations like Texas, Florida, Arizona, and Tennessee. eNLC participation significantly increases your career flexibility and earning potential.
Steps to Obtain Your Idaho RN License
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1
Graduate from an Accredited RN Program
Complete your LPN to RN bridge program from an Idaho Board of Nursing-approved nursing school (ADN or BSN).
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2
Submit RN License Application to Idaho Board of Nursing
- Complete the online application through eLicense Idaho portal
- Pay application fee (approximately $120-$150; verify current fees with the Board)
- Submit official nursing school transcripts directly from your school to the Board
- Provide government-issued photo ID
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3
Complete Criminal Background Check
- Fingerprint-based FBI criminal background check (required)
- Background check fee (approximately $40-$50)
- Instructions provided during application process
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4
Register for the NCLEX-RN Exam
- After Board approval, register for NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE
- NCLEX-RN exam fee: $200 (non-refundable)
- Schedule exam at a Pearson VUE testing center (multiple Idaho locations available)
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) from Idaho Board of Nursing (valid for 90 days)
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5
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- Computer adaptive test (CAT) with 75-145 questions
- Maximum time: 5 hours
- Tests safe/effective care, health promotion, psychosocial integrity, physiological integrity
- Results typically available within 48 hours
- Retake policy: 45-day waiting period if you do not pass; additional fees apply
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6
Receive Your Idaho RN License
After passing NCLEX-RN, your Idaho RN license will be issued. Verify your license online through the Idaho eLicense portal. Your Idaho license allows you to practice in Idaho and all other eNLC states.
- Idaho IS an eNLC State: Practice in 40+ compact states with your Idaho RN license
- Renewal: Idaho RN licenses must be renewed every 2 years by the licensee's birth month
- Continuing Education: Idaho does not currently mandate continuing education for RN license renewal, but employers may require it
- Processing Time: License applications typically take 2-6 weeks to process
- Active Military/Spouses: Expedited licensure available for active military members and spouses
NCLEX-RN Preparation Resources
- Official NCSBN Learning Extension: Created by NCLEX exam developers (ncsbn.org)
- UWorld NCLEX-RN Review: Highly-rated question bank with detailed rationales
- Kaplan Nursing: Comprehensive NCLEX prep courses
- Saunders Comprehensive Review: Popular textbook with 5,000+ practice questions
- ATI (Assessment Technologies Institute): Many Idaho programs include ATI
- NCLEX-RN Mastery App: Mobile study tool
- Free Resources: YouTube channels, NCSBN practice exams
5. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transition from LPN to RN in Idaho
Phase 1: Research & Planning (3-6 months before application)
- Assess Your Current Situation
- Confirm your Idaho LPN license is active and in good standing
- Evaluate work schedule and financial situation
- Determine full-time vs part-time study options
- Choose Your Degree Path
- ADN: Faster (12-18 months), lower cost, immediate RN eligibility
- BSN: Longer (2-3 years), higher cost, better long-term career prospects
- Research Idaho Programs
- Review the top 3 programs listed in Section 2
- Contact admissions offices for information packets
- Attend information sessions (virtual or in-person)
- Plan Your Finances
- Calculate total program costs
- Research financial aid (Section 6 below)
- Consider employer tuition reimbursement
- Explore Idaho LAUNCH grant program (up to $8,000)
Phase 2: Prerequisites & Application (6-12 months before start)
- Complete Prerequisite Courses
Most programs require:
- Anatomy & Physiology I and II (with labs)
- Microbiology (with lab)
- Chemistry (some programs)
- English Composition
- College Math or Statistics
- Psychology/Human Development
- Prepare for Entrance Exams
- TEAS or HESI exams (if required by your program)
- Study using official prep materials
- Aim for 70th percentile or higher
- Gather Application Materials
- Official transcripts from all colleges
- Copy of current Idaho LPN license
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- Personal statement/essay
- Resume highlighting LPN experience
- Immunization records
- Submit Your Application
- Apply early—Idaho programs have limited seats
- Note application deadlines (often 3-6 months before start)
- Follow up to confirm receipt of materials
Phase 3: Enrollment & Program Completion (12-24 months)
- Accept Admission & Complete Enrollment
- Successfully Complete Coursework & Clinicals
- Prepare for NCLEX-RN While in School
Phase 4: Graduation & RN Licensure (Final semester + 2-3 months)
- Graduate from Your Program
- Apply for Idaho RN License
- Register for and Pass NCLEX-RN
- Receive Your RN License & Begin Career
6. Financial Aid, Scholarships & Employer Assistance in Idaho
Idaho LAUNCH Grant Program
Idaho LAUNCH (Adult Learner Scholarships): Idaho's premier workforce training grant
- Award Amount: Up to 80% of tuition and fees, maximum $8,000
- Eligibility: Idaho residents pursuing career training at eligible institutions (includes nursing programs)
- Use: Up to half available in first year; full amount for programs under 12 months
- Website: Next Steps Idaho - LAUNCH
Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026-27) for eligible students
- Federal Direct Loans: $5,500-$12,500/year depending on grade level
- Federal Work-Study: Part-time employment opportunities
- Apply: FAFSA.gov
Idaho-Specific Nursing Scholarships
Award: $750 per year
Eligibility: Idaho nursing students
Multiple Scholarships Available:
- Delta Holloway Scholarship (up to $3,000)
- Dorothy Witmer Scholarship (up to $3,000)
- Sheri Rogers Scholarship (up to $3,000)
National Nursing Scholarships
- National Student Nurses' Association: Over $500,000 awarded annually
- Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships: Various amounts
- Nurse Corps Scholarship Program: Full tuition + stipend for service commitment
Employer Tuition Reimbursement
Major Idaho healthcare employers offering tuition assistance:
- St. Luke's Health System
- Saint Alphonsus Health System
- Kootenai Health
- Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center
- Boise VA Medical Center
7. Career Advancement Opportunities for RNs in Idaho
Becoming an RN opens significantly more career opportunities than LPN roles. Idaho RNs can pursue specializations, leadership positions, travel nursing (thanks to eNLC), and advanced practice roles:
High-Demand RN Specialties in Idaho
- Critical Care/ICU Nurse: $90,000-$110,000/year
- Emergency Department Nurse: $85,000-$105,000/year
- Operating Room Nurse: $85,000-$100,000/year
- Labor & Delivery Nurse: $80,000-$95,000/year
- Travel Nurse (eNLC advantage): $100,000-$150,000/year with housing stipends
Advanced Practice Nursing (Graduate Education)
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): $110,000-$140,000/year in Idaho
- Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): $160,000-$200,000/year
- Clinical Nurse Specialist: $95,000-$125,000/year
- Nurse Educator: $75,000-$100,000/year
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
An LPN to ADN bridge program typically takes 12-18 months full-time or 18-24 months part-time. An LPN to BSN program takes 2-3 years depending on transfer credits and enrollment status. You'll also need time for prerequisites (if not completed) and the NCLEX-RN exam after graduation.
Yes, many LPN to RN students work part-time during their programs. Idaho bridge programs often offer evening, weekend, or online formats for working nurses. Most students work 20-30 hours/week while attending school. Discuss flexible scheduling with your employer.
The Idaho LAUNCH grant program provides up to 80% of tuition and fees (maximum $8,000) for Idaho residents pursuing career training at eligible institutions. Nursing programs typically qualify. Visit nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch to apply and verify eligibility.
Yes! Idaho is a member of the enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). Your Idaho RN license allows you to practice in 40+ other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This is a major advantage for travel nursing, telehealth, and cross-border employment.
ADN programs at Idaho community colleges typically cost $6,000-$15,000 total for Idaho residents. BSN programs cost $20,000-$45,000. Idaho offers some of the most affordable nursing education in the region. Financial aid, the LAUNCH grant, and employer tuition reimbursement can significantly reduce costs.
The average RN salary in Idaho is approximately $83,000 per year, compared to $49,000 for LPNs—a $34,000 annual increase (69% raise). Salaries vary by region, with the Boise area typically offering $80,000-$90,000 and rural areas sometimes offering higher compensation with incentives.
Yes, Idaho's accredited nursing programs typically have NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates between 80-90%, which is at or above the national average. Programs like College of Eastern Idaho and Idaho State University consistently report pass rates of 85% or higher.
Ready to Start Your LPN to RN Journey in Idaho?
Don't wait to advance your nursing career and increase your earning potential by $34,000+ per year. Idaho's healthcare system needs qualified RNs, and with eNLC participation, your Idaho RN license opens doors across 40+ states.
Next Steps:
- Contact the top 3 Idaho programs to request information
- Complete the FAFSA and apply for the Idaho LAUNCH grant
- Schedule a meeting with an admissions counselor
- Review prerequisite requirements and plan your coursework
- Apply early—Idaho programs fill quickly
Questions? Contact the Idaho Board of Nursing at (208) 577-2476 or [email protected]