NP Advanced Practice

Louisiana Nurse Practitioner License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$100

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

reduced

Official source: licensing in Louisiana is administered by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in Louisiana.

Apply on Official Site

Reduced Practice

Reduced practice authority with some limitations

Prescriptive Authority: Collaborative Practice Agreement required

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Nurse Practitioner program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

ANCC or AANPCB

Required

Yes

American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board

3 Background Check

Fingerprint-based criminal background check

FBI and state background check required

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$100
Total	$100

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$100

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Pharmacology: 6 hours required

Annual pharmacology for Rx; 3-hr controlled substance CE one-time

Prerequisites

To become a Nurse Practitioner in Louisiana, you must first hold an active RN license. Louisiana is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you may hold a multistate RN license.

RN Requirements View Louisiana RN Requirements

Louisiana NP License FAQs

How much does an NP license cost in Louisiana?

Expect about $100 in total initial NP license costs in Louisiana, including a $100 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do NPs need to renew in Louisiana?

Louisiana NPs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $100.

How long does it take to get an NP license in Louisiana?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues NP licenses in Louisiana?

The Louisiana State Board of Nursing handles NP license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 225-755-7500.