How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in New York

Heath care is one of the fastest growing career fields. Many people want to get a job in nursing but do not have the time to pursue becoming a registered nurse. These people may be interested in gaining certification as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Licensed practical nurses work directly with patients in many settings. They are responsible for providing basic medical care, but are still watched by registered nurses (RNs). Some of their duties are to check routine vital signs, administer medication, monitor patients and assist with other noncomplex medical procedures. The path to receiving your licensed practical nursing license can take from nine months to two years.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Ensure you have met the minimum requirements. Before you apply for your license, you must be of good moral character and at least 17 years old. You must either have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

2. Get the proper education. In New York, there are four ways of earning the education necessary to become a licensed practical nurse. You can take the nine-month course as part of your high school curriculum. A more common way of getting certified as a licensed practical nurse in New York is by attending a college program for at least four semesters. You can also qualify if you have taken any nine-month-or more program of study as part of military training that has been approved by the New York State Education Department. You can also finish a general professional nursing approved program.

3. Complete training or a class in infection control and barrier precautions. This is one of the final educational requirements to apply for your LPN.

4. Apply for licensure. You will need to certify your educational qualifications. If you were educated outside of the United States, you must send a copy of your diploma in the original language. This paperwork will also include an application for limited permit that you will need your employer to help fill out. Your paperwork will need to be notarized. You will need to send the current registration fees and correct paperwork to the NYS Education Department in Albany.

5. Pass the NCLEX examination developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. Before registering for the NCLEX, you will have to have your education verified with the New York State Education Department.

Resources

• Office of the Professions New York State Education Department