Becoming a licensed practical or licensed vocational nurse requires completing an approved educational program. LPNs and LVNs must also have a license.
LPNs and LVNs must complete an accredited program, which takes about 1 year. These programs are commonly in technical schools and community colleges. They may occasionally be in high schools and hospitals as well. Practical nursing programs combine classroom learning in subjects such as nursing, biology, and pharmacology, with supervised clinical experience. These programs give certificates in practical nursing. Contact your state's board of nursing for a list of approved programs.
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After getting a certificate, prospective LPNs or LVNs can take the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX-PN. They must pass the exam to get a license and work as an LPN or LVN in all states.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition
