How to Become an LPN
A complete step-by-step guide to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. Start your nursing career in as little as 12 months with this practical, in-demand credential.
Meet Basic Requirements
ImmediateBefore enrolling in an LPN program, ensure you meet the prerequisites.
Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old (17 in some states)
- High school diploma or GED
- Satisfactory background check
- Basic math and reading proficiency
- Current immunizations (Hepatitis B, TB test, etc.)
- CPR/BLS certification (some programs)
Complete an Approved LPN Program
12-18 monthsEnroll in a state-approved practical nursing program.
Certificate/Diploma Program
12-14 months
Vocational schools, community colleges
Most common path. Focused curriculum with clinical rotations.
Associate Degree (LPN)
18-24 months
Community colleges
Includes general education. May offer easier RN bridge pathway.
Typical Coursework:
Plus 400-800 hours of supervised clinical experience
Program Costs:
Community colleges are typically most affordable
Apply to Your State Board of Nursing
1-2 weeksSubmit your licensure application to your state nursing board.
Requirements:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts from nursing program
- Proof of identity (government ID)
- Application fee ($75-$200)
- Passport-style photos (some states)
Complete Background Check
2-4 weeksAll states require criminal background checks for LPN licensure.
Program Costs:
Fees vary by state and vendor
Background Check Includes:
- Electronic fingerprinting
- State criminal database check
- FBI national criminal check
- Sex offender registry check
- Abuse registry check (some states)
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Pass the NCLEX-PN Examination
5 hours maximumTake and pass the computerized adaptive test for practical nurses.
NCLEX-PN Exam Details:
Exam Content Distribution:
- Safe and Effective Care Environment (26-38%)
- Health Promotion and Maintenance (6-12%)
- Psychosocial Integrity (9-15%)
- Physiological Integrity (38-62%)
How to Register:
- 1 Apply to state board and receive eligibility confirmation
- 2 Register with Pearson VUE at pearsonvue.com/nclex
- 3 Pay the $200 examination fee
- 4 Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) via email
- 5 Schedule exam at a Pearson VUE testing center
Receive Your LPN License
1-2 weeks after passingYour state will issue your license once exam results are verified.
After You're Licensed:
- Verify license status on your state board website
- Print license verification for employers
- Note your renewal date (usually every 2 years)
- Complete continuing education as required
- Consider specialty certifications (IV therapy, wound care)
LPN Salary Overview
LPNs earn competitive salaries with room for growth through experience and specialization.
Highest Paying States for LPNs:
What Does an LPN Do?
LPNs provide direct patient care under the supervision of RNs and physicians.
Core Responsibilities
- Take and record vital signs
- Administer medications
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Collect samples for testing
- Insert catheters and feeding tubes
Work Settings
- Nursing homes and long-term care (38%)
- Hospitals (15%)
- Home health services (13%)
- Physician offices (12%)
- Rehabilitation centers
Advance Your Career Beyond LPN
Many LPNs use their license as a stepping stone to higher nursing credentials.
LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs
Transition to registered nursing in 12-18 months with an LPN-to-RN bridge program. Your LPN experience gives you a head start with accelerated coursework.
LPN Requirements Vary by State
Each state has specific requirements for LPN licensure. Check your state's nursing board for exact requirements including fees, background check procedures, and renewal rules.
View LPN/LVN Requirements by State