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CNA vs LVN Nursing License

Average Salary
$35,760
CNA
vs
$54,620
LVN
Job Growth
4%
CNA
vs
5%
LVN
Workforce
1.4M+
CNA
vs
650K+
LVN

Side-by-Side Comparison

Category CNA LVN
Average Salary $35,760 $54,620
Workforce Size
Larger workforce = more job opportunities
1.4M+ 650K+
Job Growth Rate 4% 5%
Certification Exam Nurse Aide Competency Exam NCLEX-PN
Multi-State Compact No Yes

Key Differences

Salary

LVNs earn $18,860 more per year on average than CNAs.

Winner: LVN

Job Growth

LVN is growing at 5%, indicating stronger demand.

Winner: LVN

Multi-State Compact

LVN participates in a multi-state compact, making it easier to practice across state lines.

Winner: LVN

Category Winners

Higher Salary
LVN $54,620
vs CNA ($35,760)
Faster Growth
LVN 5%
vs CNA (4%)
Larger Workforce
CNA 1.4M+
vs LVN (650K+)

Certified Nursing Assistant

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses. CNAs help patients with daily activities, monitor vital signs, and serve as a vital link between patients and the healthcare team.

View CNA state requirements →

Licensed Vocational Nurse

Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. Also known as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in most states.

View LVN state requirements →

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