Become a Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) – Education, Licensure & Salary
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In the medical field, several different types of nurses play vital roles in patient care. Each type of nurse has a different level of practice autonomy and responsibilities. Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs) are entry-level nurses. They provide basic patient care and perform duties such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and observing patients. LPN/LVNs work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or physician. Despite LPN/LVNs having a low barrier to entry, they are an integral part of healthcare teams.
Most LPN/LVNs have completed a one-year program at a community college or technical school. Some programs may even be completed in as little as nine months, while part-time programs can take as long as two years. In these programs, students will learn to provide basic nursing care and may assist with procedures curing clinical placements, such as taking vital signs or inserting catheters. Upon completion of the program, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to earn their state LPN/LVN license. The requirements for licensure will vary from state to state.
The average annual salary for LPN/LVNs is $55,860, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2022). Salaries vary depending on factors such as location, level of education completed, certifications obtained, and years of experience. Jobs for LPS/LVNs are anticipated to grow 5 percent between 2022 and 2032, translating into 34,900 new jobs in this field.
There is no difference between LPNs and LVNs. The title used depends on each state. California and Texas have LVNs, while the rest have LPNs. The education requirements for both titles are generally the same.
Becoming an LPN/LVN can be a great way to start a career in healthcare. Use the guide below to discover the steps necessary to enter this field. Also included below is a comprehensive state-by-state licensing guide.
Ask an Expert: Julie Samms, MN, BSN, RN
Julie Samms MN, RN (she/they) has been the Nursing Dean and Director of the Nursing program at Bellingham Technical College since 2016. Under her leadership, BTC’s Nursing Program has focused on increasing accessibility to nursing pathways by developing part-time and evening program options and implementing programs and resources to support non-traditional students to be successful in healthcare careers. She began her career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in 2006 and became a registered nurse (RN) in 2008. She also holds a master’s of nursing in nursing education.
Nursing Colleges: What is something you wish the public understood about licensed practical nurses or licensed vocational nurses (LPN/LVNs)?
Samms: I wish that the public understood how in-demand LPNs are in the workforce. Most people know that LPNs fill a critical role in long-term care, but many don’t realize that LPNs work in all kinds of settings, from outpatient procedures to home health to hospice care to hospitals and acute care facilities. There is such a huge demand for LPNs, and the wages are high, especially considering it can take as little as ten months to finish a program.
Nursing Colleges: What advice would you give to aspiring LPN/LVN students?
Samms: Pick a pathway that will work for you. At Bellingham Technical College, we have a part-time evening pathway for practical Nursing training, and it is perfect for students who need to continue to work part-time during school. If you have kids or demanding responsibilities outside of school, consider that when deciding which pathway to choose. We have lots of students who are working part-time and have families tell us that the part-time program perfectly fits their needs. And they’re out there working as nurses in 18 months.
How to Become a Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN)
Step 1: Complete High School Or Equivalent (Four Years)
To become an LPN/LVN, one must first complete high school or obtain a GED. Not only must an LPN/LVN have a strong foundation in basic math and science to understand and apply the concepts learned in nursing school, but they must also be able to read and write at a level sufficient to comprehend medical documents and instructions. Lastly, a high school diploma or GED is a requirement for licensure in many states, and most LPN/LVN schools require one or the other to be considered for admission.
Step 2: Attend An LPN/LVN Nursing Program At An Accredited School (One Year)
A career as an LPN/LVN requires completing an accredited nursing program. These programs provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this demanding and rewarding field. Most LPN/LVN program graduates are awarded a diploma or certificate for completing their program. The length of the program depends on the institution, but most can be completed in just one year of study. Topics covered include coursework in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing, as well as hands-on clinical experiences. Students should ensure their program meets their state requirements for licensing.
Step 3: Pass the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) (Timeline Varies)
After completing an LPN/LVN program, graduates will need to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam, as this is required for licensure in all states. This exam ensures that students have the minimum level of competency needed to provide quality patient care.
Step 4: Meet The Requirements For State Licensing (Timeline Varies)
Each state has its own requirements for licensing LPN/LVNs. Candidates should contact their local board to ensure they have the necessary qualifications. Below is a state-by-state guide of the requirements necessary to be licensed as an LPN/LVN.
What Does a Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse Do?
LPN/LVNs work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and physician offices. They typically work under the supervision of an RN or physician. While their job duties will vary based on place of employment and job description, day-to-day responsibilities can include:
- Providing basic nursing care to patients, including taking vital signs, changing bandages, and administering medication
- Charting patient information
- Assisting doctors and nurses with medical procedures
- Helping patients eat, bathe, and dress
- Educating patients about their health condition and how to care for themselves properly
- Monitoring patients’ progress and report any changes to a doctor or nurse
- Cleaning and sterilizing medical equipment
- Keeping careful client records
How Much Do Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurses Make?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2022) estimates that the 632,020 LPN/LVNs in the US earn $55,860 per year on average. The percentiles for wages were:
- 10th percentile: $40,490
- 25th percentile: $47,800
- 50th percentile (median): $54,620
- 75th percentile: $62,110
- 90th percentile: $72,650
Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse Certifications
While there are no general LPN/LVN certifications, professionals in this field may acquire specialty certifications to demonstrate competency in that area. These certifications are voluntary, although many employers may require them as a condition for hire. The most common certifications LPN/LVNs may earn include:
- Certified Managed Care Nurse
- Advanced Medical Life Support
- Certified Peritoneal Dialysis Nurse (CPDN)
- Certified Urologic Associates
- Long-Term Care
- Pharmacology
- Wound Care
- Vascular Access
- Basic Life Support
- Bloodborne Pathogens
- International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
- Certified Corrections Nurse
- IV Therapy
- Gerontology
- Hemodialysis
- Hospice and Palliative Care
- Weight Management
- Certified Assisted Living Nursing
Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) Licensure Requirements By State
| State | Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama |
In order to earn a license as an LPN in Alabama, candidates must:
| LPNs must renew their licenses in Alabama every odd-numbered year by completing 24 contact hours of continuing education from a board-approved education provider, submitting an application, and paying a renewal fee of $100 plus $3.50 transaction fee. |
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterThanks to her experience writing in healthcare, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth articles on timely topics for NursingColleges.com since 2022. Her aim is to assist both students and professionals in navigating the intricate process of selecting a nursing program and understanding the ever-evolving realm of nursing education.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.