How to Get LPN Certification

Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN) requires specialized training in some states. This training can be completed in as little time as one year, compared with a much longer training period for a registered nurse (RN).

Instructions

School Selection

1. Research schools in your area that provide nursing programs for LPNs. Be sure to research the cost, program length, and distance from your home and work. Research online nursing programs and compare the quality of education online versus on campus. Consider the convenience of an online program. Choose a campus-based program if you have trouble staying on task. Make sure that the program you choose is a state-approved practical nursing program. If it is not state-approved, you may be delayed or disqualified from becoming licensed.

2. Apply for the program. Gather what you will need to apply, including transcripts from high school, colleges, and all career and trade schools you have attended. The application fee is typically $25 to $75. Most schools require several references. The best references are from instructors or employers. References from friends and family members do not carry much weight. Have the references typed as well as emailed to you so you have an electronic copy. Make sure they are signed and have a phone number where they can be reached during business hours.

3. After completing your state-approved nursing program, prepare for your LPN licensing exam. This exam is called the NCLEX-PN. Study for this exam. The review courses are 8 to 15 weeks long. Purchase a study guide for this exam online or at a bookstore in your area. You may also purchase an exam review course from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, the administrator of the NCLEX-PN, on their website. You must score a minimum of .42 on a .50 scale to pass.

4. Register for the NCLEX-PN exam online at www.pearsonvue.com/nclex. Choose a payment method and register for your online web account. The cost of the exam is $200. Pay by credit card, cashiers check or money order. They do not accept personal checks. The payment address by mail is: NCLEX Operations, P.O. Box 64950, St. Paul, MN 55164-0950.

5. Arrive at the testing center 30 minutes early on the day of the test to sign in. The test will begin on time and anyone who shows up late will not be able to take the exam. The exam fee is nonrefundable and nontransferable. If you miss your test date, you will be required to pay the fee again. The exam includes four primary categories: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity. Pass the test and wait for your certification to be entered. You are now ready for work. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the job outlook for the LPN profession is good. The demand for LPNs will continue to increase through 2016.

Tips & Warnings

• You must be physically fit to be a nurse. You will lift heavy objects including people. Nurses spend much of their time on their feet walking from one patient to another. There is very little time to sit. You will be required to have a physical, drug screen, and provide the school with consent to conduct a background check.

References

• Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
• Practical Nursing (LPN/LVN) Programs
• NCSBN: Exam Day