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How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Quick answer: how to become an LPN
Complete a state-approved practical nursing program (12-18 months), pass the NCLEX-PN licensing exam, and apply for your state LPN license. Most LPNs start working within 12-18 months of beginning training, making this one of the fastest paths into the nursing profession with 54,400 annual job openings.
What does a Licensed Practical Nurse do?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) - called Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in California and Texas - provide essential bedside nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. They monitor patient health, administer medications, and perform basic nursing procedures across healthcare settings.
Primary Responsibilities
Patient Care:
- Take and record vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, respiration)
- Administer medications and injections as prescribed
- Change wound dressings and monitor healing
- Insert and care for catheters
- Collect samples for laboratory testing
- Assist patients with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene
Clinical Duties:
- Monitor patient status and report changes to RNs/physicians
- Start and monitor IV drips (in some states with additional certification)
- Prepare patients for examinations and procedures
- Document patient care and progress in medical records
- Assist with physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises
- Provide patient education on medications and self-care
Team Coordination:
- Communicate with RNs, physicians, and other healthcare staff
- Supervise certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in some settings
- Coordinate with families regarding patient care
- Participate in care planning meetings
- Maintain clean, safe patient environments
Work Environment
LPNs work in various healthcare settings with patient contact throughout their shifts. The work is physically demanding, requiring standing, walking, lifting patients, and performing detailed clinical tasks. Settings include:
- Nursing homes and long-term care facilities (largest employer)
- Hospitals (general and specialty)
- Physicians’ offices and outpatient clinics
- Home healthcare services
- Rehabilitation centers
- Correctional facilities
- Schools and community health centers
LPN licensing requirements
LPN licensure is regulated at the state level. All states require graduation from an approved program and passage of the NCLEX-PN exam.
NCLEX-PN Examination
National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses:
- Format: Computer Adaptive Test (CAT)
- Questions: Minimum 85, maximum 205
- Time Limit: 5 hours
- Content Areas: Safe and effective care, health promotion, physiological integrity
- Pass Rate: Approximately 85% for first-time U.S.-educated candidates
- Fee: $200 (plus state-specific fees)
- Retake Policy: 45-day waiting period between attempts
State licensure process
After passing NCLEX-PN:
- Submit application to your state Board of Nursing
- Complete background check (fingerprinting)
- Pay licensing fee ($50-$200 depending on state)
- Receive license (processing: 2-6 weeks)
- Renew every 1-2 years with continuing education
Scope of Practice Variations
LPN scope of practice varies by state:
| Task | Most States | Some States Only |
|---|---|---|
| Administer oral medications | Yes | Yes |
| Give injections | Yes | Yes |
| Start IVs | No | Yes (with certification) |
| Administer IV push medications | No | Some (with training) |
| Pronounce death | No | Yes (in some facilities) |
| Supervise CNAs | Yes | Yes |
Step-by-step path to becoming an LPN
Step 1: meet basic requirements
Age: Minimum 18 years old in most states
Education: High school diploma or GED required
Prerequisites:
- Basic math and reading proficiency
- High school biology and chemistry (recommended)
- Clean criminal background (requirements vary)
- Current immunizations and TB test
- CPR/BLS certification (often required before clinical)
Step 2: complete an approved Practical nursing program
Program Options:
Certificate/Diploma Programs (12-18 months)
- Most common pathway
- Focused practical nursing curriculum
- Clinical rotations included
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Associate Degree in Practical Nursing (18-24 months)
- Additional general education courses
- May facilitate RN advancement
- Less common but offers broader education
Core Curriculum:
- Fundamentals of nursing
- Anatomy and physiology
- Pharmacology and medication administration
- Medical-surgical nursing
- Maternal-child nursing
- Mental health nursing
- Geriatric nursing
- Nutrition and diet therapy
- Nursing ethics and law
Step 3: complete clinical rotations
All approved programs include supervised clinical experience:
- 400-800+ clinical hours (typical requirement)
- Rotations in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics
- Direct patient care under RN supervision
- Experience across multiple patient populations
- Skills validation and competency checkoffs
Step 4: Apply for NCLEX-PN and Pass the Exam
NCLEX-PN Preparation:
- Apply to your state Board of Nursing for eligibility
- Register with Pearson VUE to schedule exam
- Complete program and receive transcripts
- Study using NCLEX prep materials and practice tests
- Take and pass the examination
Exam Tips:
- Focus on critical thinking and priority-setting questions
- Use multiple review resources (books, online, practice tests)
- Understand the CAT format and question styles
- Know your weak areas and focus study there
- Consider NCLEX prep courses if needed
Step 5: obtain state licensure and begin career
After Passing NCLEX-PN:
- Complete state licensing application
- Submit background check results
- Pay licensing fee
- Receive official LPN license
- Apply for positions
Entry-Level Positions:
- Staff LPN in nursing homes
- LPN in physician offices
- Home health LPN
- Hospital LPN (various units)
Training programs and education options
Program types comparison
| Program Type | Duration | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate/Diploma | 12-18 months | $5,000-$20,000 | Fast entry to nursing |
| Community College | 12-18 months | $4,000-$15,000 | Affordable option |
| Technical/Vocational | 12-16 months | $10,000-$25,000 | Structured training |
| Hospital-Based | 12-18 months | Varies | Clinical focus |
What to look for in a program
State Approval: Must be approved by your state Board of Nursing
Accreditation: ACEN or CNEA accreditation preferred
NCLEX Pass Rates: Ask about first-time pass rates (aim for 80%+)
Clinical Sites: Quality partnerships with healthcare facilities
Graduate Employment: Job placement rates and employer connections
LPN-to-RN Articulation: Pathway to continue education if desired
Accelerated and part-time options
Accelerated Programs: Some programs offer intensive 9-12 month options
Evening/Weekend Programs: Available at some schools for working adults
Online Hybrid: Theory courses online, clinical in-person
Cost breakdown: LPN training
Tuition and Fees
| Program Type | Tuition Range | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Community College | $4,000-$12,000 | $500-$1,500 |
| Technical School | $10,000-$20,000 | $800-$2,000 |
| Private Nursing School | $15,000-$30,000 | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Hospital-Based | $5,000-$15,000 | Varies |
Additional Expenses
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Scrubs and uniforms | $100-$250 |
| Nursing shoes | $50-$100 |
| Stethoscope and equipment | $75-$200 |
| Textbooks and supplies | $600-$1,200 |
| Background check and drug screening | $75-$150 |
| Clinical site fees | $100-$500 |
| NCLEX-PN registration | $200 |
| State license application | $50-$200 |
| CPR/BLS certification | $50-$100 |
Financial aid options
- Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 annually for qualifying students
- Federal Student Loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized options
- State Nursing Scholarships: Many states fund nursing education
- Hospital Tuition Assistance: Some facilities pay for employee education
- Workforce Development: WIOA funding for career training
- Military Benefits: GI Bill covers approved programs
- Nursing Loan Forgiveness: Available in some states for service commitments
LPN Salary and Job Outlook
National salary data
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $32,772-$43,696 |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $43,696-$54,620 |
| Experienced (8-15 years) | $54,620-$65,544 |
| Senior/Specialist (15+ years) | $65,544-$81,930 |
Salary by Work Setting
| Setting | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Government | $60,000-$65,000 |
| Home Healthcare Services | $55,000-$60,000 |
| Hospitals | $52,000-$58,000 |
| Nursing Care Facilities | $50,000-$55,000 |
| Physicians’ Offices | $48,000-$53,000 |
Job Outlook
- Current Employment: 657,200 LPNs/LVNs nationwide
- Projected Growth (2022-2032): 5% (about as fast as average)
- Annual Job Openings: 54,400 positions
- Growth Factors: Aging population, chronic disease management, long-term care expansion
Salary by State
Career advancement opportunities
LPN-to-RN bridge programs
Many LPNs advance their careers by becoming Registered Nurses:
| Path | Duration | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| LPN-to-ADN Bridge | 12-18 months | Active LPN license |
| LPN-to-BSN Bridge | 2-3 years | Active LPN license, prerequisites |
| Online RN Programs | 18-36 months | Varies by program |
Specialization Options
Clinical Specialties:
- IV therapy certified LPN
- Wound care specialist
- Geriatric care LPN
- Pediatric LPN
- Hospice/palliative care
- Dialysis nurse (with additional training)
Leadership Roles:
- Charge nurse
- Unit supervisor
- Staff development coordinator
- CNA instructor/trainer
Advanced career paths
| Career Path | Additional Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (ADN) | 12-18 months | $77,600 |
| Registered Nurse (BSN) | 2-3 years | $81,220 |
| Nurse Manager | BSN + experience | $95,350 |
| Nurse Practitioner | Master’s degree | $120,680 |
Pros and challenges of this career
Benefits
- Fast entry to nursing (12-18 months)
- Good salary for education level ($54,620 median)
- Clear pathway to RN advancement
- Variety of work settings available
- Job security in healthcare
- Meaningful patient care work
- Flexible scheduling options
- 54,400 annual job openings
Challenges
- Physically demanding (lifting, standing)
- Emotionally challenging patient situations
- Shift work including nights and weekends
- Limited scope compared to RNs
- Exposure to illness and infectious diseases
- High-stress situations and emergencies
- Documentation and paperwork requirements
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become an LPN?
Most LPN programs take 12-18 months to complete. After graduation, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam (results typically available within 48 hours) and obtain your state license (2-6 weeks processing). Total time from enrollment to working is typically 14-20 months.
How much does LPN training cost?
LPN training costs range from $4,000-$15,000 at community colleges to $15,000-$30,000 at private nursing schools. Additional costs include books, uniforms, NCLEX fees, and licensing fees, totaling approximately $1,500-$3,000 more.
Is LPN a good career choice?
LPN offers a good salary ($54,620 median) for a 12-18 month program, strong job security, and a clear path to RN advancement. It’s ideal for those who want to enter nursing quickly while potentially continuing education later. The work is demanding but meaningful.
What is the difference between an LPN and RN?
RNs have more education (associate or bachelor’s degree), a broader scope of practice, and higher salaries. LPNs work under RN supervision and have a more limited scope. However, LPN training is faster (12-18 months vs. 2-4 years) and provides a pathway to becoming an RN.
Is the NCLEX-PN exam hard?
The NCLEX-PN has approximately an 85% pass rate for first-time, U.S.-educated candidates. With proper preparation using review books, practice tests, and study groups, most graduates pass on their first attempt. The computer-adaptive format adjusts to your ability level.
What is the difference between an LPN and LVN?
LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) and LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) are the same role with different titles. California and Texas use “LVN,” while all other states use “LPN.” The education, licensing, and scope of practice are identical.
Can LPNs give injections?
Yes, LPNs can administer most injections including intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous, and intradermal injections in all states. IV push medications and some IV therapy procedures may require additional certification or may be outside LPN scope in some states.
Can LPNs work in hospitals?
Yes, LPNs work in hospitals, though most hospital positions are for RNs. LPNs typically work on medical-surgical units, skilled nursing units within hospitals, outpatient departments, and in specialty areas. Hospital LPN positions may be more limited than in long-term care settings.
How much do LPNs make per hour?
Based on national averages, LPNs earn approximately $22-$26 per hour at the median level. Entry-level positions start around $16-$21 per hour, while experienced LPNs in high-paying settings can earn $32-$40 per hour.
Can I become an LPN online?
Theory courses can be completed online through hybrid programs, but all approved LPN programs require in-person clinical training. You cannot become an LPN entirely online because hands-on patient care skills must be demonstrated under supervision.
What shifts do LPNs work?
LPN schedules vary by setting. Nursing homes and hospitals offer 8-hour or 12-hour shifts around the clock, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Physician offices and clinics typically offer Monday-Friday daytime schedules. Home health often provides flexible scheduling.
How do I transfer my LPN license to another state?
Most states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs from member states to practice in other member states without obtaining a new license. For non-compact states, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement, which requires verifying your credentials and may include additional fees.
How to get started today
Ready to begin your LPN career? Follow these steps:
- Research Programs: Use the search tool below to find state-approved LPN programs in your area
- Check Prerequisites: Verify you meet admission requirements (GPA, courses, background)
- Apply for Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA and explore nursing scholarships
- Schedule Campus Visits: Tour facilities and meet with nursing faculty
- Apply to Programs: Submit applications to multiple programs to maximize options
Additional Resources
Licensing Organizations
- NCSBN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing): ncsbn.org – NCLEX information and state board directory
- State Boards of Nursing: License applications and requirements
Professional Organizations
- NAPNES (National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service): Resources for LPN/LVN nurses
- NFLPN (National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses): Professional advocacy and education
NCLEX-PN Resources
- Pearson VUE: pearsonvue.com/nclex – Exam registration and scheduling
- NCSBN Learning Extension: Official NCLEX review courses
- Practice Tests: Available through multiple publishers and online platforms
Career Development
- LPN-to-RN Programs: Bridge programs for career advancement
- Nursing Scholarships: HRSA and state-funded opportunities
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Current salary and employment data