Career roadmap
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a licensed practical nurse, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a licensed practical nurse: (1) prepare academically, (2) complete a state-approved PN program, (3) pass the NCLEX-PN, (4) start working and choose a setting, (5) advance through a bridge program. Most people need about 12–18 months. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a licensed practical nurse
Prepare academically
Get a high school diploma or GED; programs often require entrance tests such as the TEAS and prerequisite courses.
Complete a state-approved PN program
Expect classroom study in anatomy, pharmacology and nursing plus supervised clinical rotations.
Pass the NCLEX-PN
After graduating, apply to your state board, pass a background check and take the exam.
Start working and choose a setting
Long-term care hires the most LPNs; clinics, home health and rehab are also common.
Advance through a bridge program
LPN-to-RN programs credit your training and can shorten the path to an RN license.
Education and training requirements
You must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, usually a 12- to 18-month certificate or diploma from a community college or technical school, and pass the NCLEX-PN to earn a license.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Postsecondary nondegree award |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 12–18 months |
Certifications and licenses
- NCLEX-PN license: The national licensing exam for practical nurses, administered for state boards of nursing.
- IV therapy certification: Required in many states before LPNs can start or manage IVs.
- BLS / CPR: Required by virtually all employers.
- Specialty certificates: Wound care (such as WCC), gerontology and pharmacology certifications add value.
Skills to build now
Start with medication administration, wound care, and vital signs and patient assessment data collection, and practice clinical judgment and prioritization and leadership of cnas. Learning the licensed practical nurse vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Licensed Practical Nurse: Provide licensed nursing care under supervision.
- Charge Nurse or Unit LPN Lead: Coordinate a hall or shift in long-term care.
- MDS Coordinator or Specialty LPN: Move into care coordination, wound care or IV therapy.
- Registered Nurse: Complete an LPN-to-RN bridge and pass the NCLEX-RN.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Licensed Practical Nurse training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an LPN?
Most practical nursing programs take 12 to 18 months, followed by the NCLEX-PN exam.
How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse?
Most people need about 12–18 months of training. You must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, usually a 12- to 18-month certificate or diploma from a community college or technical school, and pass the NCLEX-PN to earn a license.
Do you need a degree to be a licensed practical nurse?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for licensed practical nurses?
Common credentials include NCLEX-PN license, IV therapy certification, BLS / CPR, and Specialty certificates. All states require LPNs to be licensed by the state board of nursing. Many states belong to the Nurse Licensure Compact, which lets nurses practice across member states with one multistate license.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-2061 (Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.