Texas is one of the best states in the country to start a nursing career. The state employs 68,150 Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) — the second-largest practical nursing workforce nationally — charges no state income tax, and has community college programs starting at just $1,128 in tuition. One thing to know upfront: Texas calls it LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) instead of LPN. It's the exact same credential, same NCLEX-PN exam, same scope of practice — just a different title. If you're searching for programs in Texas, search "LVN programs" to find the most results.
Enter your zip code to see accredited programs near you.
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
Not entirely — the Texas Board of Nursing requires in-person clinical hours for all LVN programs. However, several schools offer hybrid formats where lectures and coursework are completed online and clinical rotations are done at approved facilities near you. This hybrid model lets you study from home on your own schedule while completing hands-on training locally.
Schools offering hybrid or flexible formats in Texas include North Central Texas College (Gainesville/Corinth), some Galen College campuses, and select community colleges. If you see a program advertised as "100% online LVN" in Texas, it is not state-approved — avoid it.
McAllen — Rio Grande Valley
$1,128–$3,240
Among the lowest LVN tuition in the country. 12-month program in the fast-growing Rio Grande Valley.
Dallas — 7 metro campuses
$2,500–$4,500
Dallas Promise graduates may qualify for free tuition. Clinicals across the Dallas hospital network.
Gainesville / Corinth — DFW area
$3,000–$5,000
Online hybrid option available. Awards $800,000+/year in scholarships. LVN-to-ADN bridge pathway.
Houston — multiple campuses
$7,100–$9,300
Eagle Promise covers tuition for qualifying students. Texas Medical Center — the world's largest — for clinicals.
Austin / Dallas / Houston / San Antonio
$12,000–$18,000
4 Texas campuses, 4 start dates/year. Maximum scheduling flexibility for working adults.
Texas LVNs earn an average of $56,200/year with zero state income tax. That means your take-home is $2,000–$4,000/year more than states with similar salaries that tax income.
Enter your zip code to see accredited programs near you.
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
Federal Pell Grant — Up to $7,395/year. At South Texas College ($1,128), Pell covers everything multiple times over.
TEXAS Grant — Up to $5,643/semester for residents at public institutions. Stacks with Pell.
Dallas Promise / Houston Eagle Promise — Free tuition at Dallas College and Houston CC for qualifying students.
VA / GI Bill — Fort Cavazos, Fort Bliss, JBSA. Full tuition + housing for eligible veterans.
WIOA Workforce Grants — Contact your local Texas Workforce Solutions office.
Passing the NCLEX-PN is your final step to becoming a licensed LVN in Texas. 50 free questions with full answer explanations.
Take 50 Free NCLEX-PN Practice Questions →Enter your zip code to see accredited programs near you.
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.