Transform Your Nursing Career in Maine
Maine's healthcare system needs qualified Registered Nurses now more than ever. Whether you're an experienced LPN or just starting to consider advancing your career, transitioning from LPN to RN opens up significantly higher salaries, expanded career opportunities, and greater professional autonomy.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about LPN to RN bridge programs in Maine, including accredited schools, salary expectations, Board of Nursing requirements, and career advancement opportunities. Maine's aging population and rural communities create strong demand for RNs. The state offers several rural health loan repayment programs.
Maine LPN to RN Salary Increase
Per Year
Per Year
Maine does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact. You must hold a Maine-specific RN license to practice in Maine. If you move to or from Maine, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement.
1. Top LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Maine (2026)
Maine offers several accredited LPN to RN bridge programs. Here are the top options for 2026:
Location: Lewiston, ME
Program Type: LPN to ADN Bridge
Duration: Advanced standing option; accelerate to ADN
Format: Hybrid (online + in-person clinicals)
Estimated Tuition: $12,000-$18,000
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Key Features:
- ADN Bridge Program with advanced standing for LPNs
- Accelerated pathway to RN licensure
- Clinical partnerships with Central Maine Medical Center and St. Mary's Regional Medical Center
- High NCLEX pass rates (85%+)
- Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
- Evening and weekend options for working nurses
Location: Presque Isle, ME
Program Type: Associate Degree Nursing (LPN advanced standing available)
Duration: 2 years (standard); accelerated for LPNs
Format: In-person with clinical rotations
Estimated Tuition: $8,000-$12,000 (Maine residents)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Key Features:
- ACEN accreditation ensures high educational standards
- Advanced standing options for LPNs with current licensure
- Clinical experiences in northern Maine healthcare facilities
- Affordable tuition for Maine residents
- Rural health nursing emphasis
- Small class sizes with personalized instruction
Location: Fairfield, ME
Program Type: Nursing (ADN pathway)
Duration: Varies based on advanced standing
Format: In-person with clinical rotations in central Maine
Estimated Tuition: $8,000-$13,000 (Maine residents)
Accreditation: Part of Maine Community College System
Key Features:
- LPN advanced standing opportunities
- Clinical sites throughout central Maine
- Affordable Maine Community College System tuition
- Evening and weekend course options
- Strong job placement rates in Maine healthcare systems
- Financial aid available for qualifying students
💻 Find LPN to RN Programs Near You --
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
2. LPN vs RN Salary in Maine: Financial Benefits
Current Salary Data (2026)
| Position | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $64,000 | $30.77 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $88,000 | $42.31 |
| Salary Difference | +$24,000 | +$11.54 |
Regional Salary Variations Across Maine
| Location/Region | RN Average Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Portland/Southern Maine | $85,000 - $95,000 | Highest concentration of healthcare facilities |
| Bangor/Eastern Maine | $80,000 - $90,000 | Northern Light Health system dominates region |
| Lewiston/Auburn | $80,000 - $90,000 | Central Maine healthcare hub |
| Augusta/Central Maine | $78,000 - $88,000 | State capital; moderate cost of living |
| Rural Maine | $80,000 - $95,000+ | Incentives and loan forgiveness programs available |
Top Employers for RNs in Maine (2026)
- MaineHealth (Maine Medical Center, Portland)
- Northern Light Health (Eastern Maine Medical Center, Bangor)
- Central Maine Healthcare (Central Maine Medical Center, Lewiston)
- St. Mary's Regional Medical Center (Lewiston)
- MaineGeneral Medical Center (Augusta)
- Pen Bay Medical Center (Rockport)
- York Hospital (York)
- Miles Memorial Hospital (Damariscotta)
- VA Maine Healthcare System
- Long-term care facilities and home health agencies throughout Maine
3. Maine Board of Nursing & RN Licensure Requirements
Agency: Maine Board of Nursing
Address: 161 Capitol Street, Augusta, ME 04333
Phone: (207) 287-1133
Email: [email protected]
Steps to Obtain Your Maine RN License
- 1Graduate from Accredited RN Program
- 2Submit RN License Application
- 3Complete Criminal Background Check
- 4Register for NCLEX-RN Exam
- 5Pass NCLEX-RN
- 6Receive Your Maine RN License
4. Financial Aid & Scholarships in Maine
Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Pell Grants: Up to $7,395/year (2026-27)
- Federal Direct Loans: $5,500-$12,500/year
- Apply: FAFSA.gov
Maine-Specific Scholarships
Various scholarships for Maine nursing students through professional organization
State-funded grants for nursing education; check with Maine Community College System
5. 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.
The average RN salary in Maine is approximately $88,000 per year, compared to $64,000 for LPNs—a $24,000 annual increase (38% raise).
No, Maine is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact. You must hold a Maine-specific RN license to practice in Maine.
Ready to Start Your LPN to RN Journey in Maine?
Don't wait to advance your nursing career and increase your earning potential by $24,000+ per year. Maine's healthcare system needs qualified RNs.
Explore Maine LPN to RN ProgramsQuestions? Contact the Maine Board of Nursing at (207) 287-1133