How long does it take to become an LPN?

LPNs typically complete a 1-2-year certificate or diploma to meet educational requirements. They also need to pass the NCLEX-PN and apply for a license to practice in their state.

What is the difference between a CNA and an LPN?

CNAs and LPNs both provide basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. However, LPNs have a broader scope of practice, which can include administering medication, starting IV drips, and taking blood samples. LPNs also earn more than CNAs.

What is the fastest way to become an LPN?

The fastest way to become an LPN is to enroll in a one-year LPN program. These programs combine patient care coursework and clinical training. Graduates earn a certificate or diploma and qualify for the NCLEX-PN and licensure as a practical nurse.

Which LPN gets paid the most?

LPNs who work in government facilities report the highest median wages, according to May 2024 BLS data. The highest-paying states for LPNs include Washington, Rhode Island, Alaska, California, and Oregon.

How To Become An LPN Or An LVN

Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) offers a quicker path to a nursing career and doesn't require a degree. LPNs can enter the workforce after 1-2 years of training.

Learn how to become an LPN — or a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), as it's referred to in Texas and California. Explore typical work settings, career outlooks, and salary data.

How Long to Become

1-2 Years

Degree Required

LPN/LVN

Certification

Basic and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, IV Therapy

Job Outlook

3% Growth from 2024-2034

What Is a Licensed Practical Nurse?

LPNs work under the supervision of an RN to provide basic patient care, such as administering medication and monitoring vital signs. They work in various medical settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, physician's offices, and private homes.

LPNs must complete a one-year, state-approved vocational program and pass the NCLEX-PN to meet licensure requirements. The median annual LPN salary reached $62,340 in May 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Several factors shape earning potential, including the specialty area, work setting, and location. LPNs do not earn the highest salaries in the healthcare profession, nor are they the most in-demand. But sought-after specialties, such as gerontology or intravenous therapy, can earn LPNs higher-than-average salaries. Work settings, including both inpatient and outpatient facilities, offer varying salaries, though government positions and home health nurses tend to earn the most.

Steps to Becoming an LPN

You must complete an accredited practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN to become a licensed practical nurse. After gaining work experience, you can boost your earnings by obtaining a specialty certification or continuing nursing education to become an RN in an .

LPN/LVN Education

The journey to becoming an LPN or LVN depends on your state. No matter where you live or study, you'll need to earn a diploma and license before pursuing employment. Here are some common LPN program and application requirements:

LPN/LVN Program

Practical nursing programs prepare students for entry-level practical nursing positions through a combination of classroom and clinical learning. Full-time students often complete the curriculum in one year. After graduation, candidates pass the NCLEX-PN to become licensed.

Admission Requirements: At least 18 years old, high school diploma or GED certificate, minimum 2.5 GPA, transcripts, drug test and criminal background check, CPR certification
Program Curriculum: 30-40 credits, including coursework in nursing fundamentals, biology, pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, human growth, development, and basic nutrition; 500-700 clinical hours
Time to Complete: 12-24 months
Skills Learned: Basic patient care, patient assessment and monitoring, record keeping, patient education, and communication

LPN Licensure and Certification

All states require LPNs to hold a professional license to practice, including passing the NCLEX-PN. Some states may add additional requirements. LPNs must renew their state licenses, a process that may include demonstrating competency and earning . Each state establishes the renewal timeline and regulations.

After gaining experience, LPNs can earn specialty certifications in a variety of fields. This helps them advance their careers and improve their earning potential. For example, LPNs can pursue certifications focused on a work setting, such as long-term care or hospice and palliative care. Other certifications focus on specific roles or patient populations, such as correctional healthcare, developmental disabilities, or nephrology.

Working as an LPN

LPNs earn a median annual wage of $62,340, according to 2024 BLS data. The lowest-paid LPNs earn less than $47,960, while the highest-paid earn over $80,510. LPNs can boost their earnings based on their experience, workplace setting, and geographical location.

The BLS projects 3% job growth for LPNs from 2024-2034, which is substantially lower than the 7% growth projected for all health technologists and technicians. This translates into 54,400 job openings for LPNs annually.

Nursing and residential care facilities employ 35% of LPNs, while 16% work in hospitals, 12% in home healthcare agencies, and 12% in physician offices, according to the BLS. LPNs can start their employment search by looking for job listings on job boards, employers' websites, and professional organizations. Many LPN programs offer career planning and placement services.