The iPad can still function with a cracked screen. It can even function if the screen is broken, although it can be difficult to read the text on the screen. Unfortunately, replacing that screen is not cheap.
How to Replace and Repair a Broken iPad Screen
Apple charges a flat rate based on the iPad model. Replacing the screen of an iPhone is not such a disaster, but this is an area where the large screen is a disadvantage.
Without AppleCare+ coverage (more on that later), you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars for your iPad repair. The larger the screen, the more it will cost, with iPad Pro models approaching the $800 mark.
You may be able to find a better deal with a third-party repair company, but if you have your screen replaced by Apple, you get a 1-year warranty on the repair, even if your iPad is out of warranty. This means that any issues with the sensors in the screen won’t incur additional repair costs in a few months. The same can’t be said for most third-party repair companies.