Become a Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse
What are the requirements to become an LPN or an LVN?
Each state has a Board of Nursing which is responsible for setting requirements for the licensing of nurses who practice in that state. Licensed Practical Nurse (Licensed Vocational Nurse, depending on the state) is the name of the license granted to basic level nurses.
To earn an LPN license, you must pass a state administered nursing test, called the NCLEX-PN® examination. To qualify to sit for the NCLEX-PN examination, you must first complete a LPN/LVN education program that is approved by your state's Board of Nursing.
LPN programs involve one year of training at a hospital, vocational technical school or community college. After taking this training you are eligible for licensure as an LPN or LVN. You will then be qualified to work at a hospital, but your responsibilities are limited, and you must work under the guidance and direction of a registered nurse.
Should I become an LPN or an RN?
Choosing a nursing program is a very personal choice. For many prospective students, the choice involves a complex set of factors including finances (e.g., need to support a family), age (high school graduate vs. mid-life career change), and future career plans.
What if I become an LPN and want to become an RN later?
LPNs who wish to earn additional credentials can enroll in an LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN program. These types of programs will grant you credit for your prior course work.