Florida LPN Certification

The need for licensed practical nurses in Florida will grow by more than 19 percent from 208 through 2018, creating more than 8,600 new jobs, predicts the State of Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation. The Florida Administrative Code requires that all licensed practical nurses gain a state-issued license prior to working with patients in the state. The Florida Board of Nursing oversees the licensing or certification of practical nurses for the state.

Education

Typically, all prospective practical nurses in Florida must complete a state-approved training program prior to gaining certification as an LPN. As of January 2011, the Florida Board of Nursing had approved more than 95 practical nursing programs across the state. Locations of these programs include vocational secondary schools, hospitals and private and public postsecondary colleges. Programs generally last 11 to 13 months and require students to participate in clinical internships at local hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Examination

After completing the mandatory training, prospective LPNs in Florida must pass an examination known as the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing developed the test, which consists of multiple-choice questions. Prospective LPNs take the exam using a computer at a Pearson Vue professional testing center. As of January 2011, Pearson Vue operated 11 locations across the state of Florida.

Other Requirements

All applicants for a practical nursing license in Florida must undergo a criminal background check, which involves professional fingerprinting. In addition, they must submit an application available from the Florida Board of Nursing website. Prospective Florida LPNs who currently hold certification or a license from another state can qualify for Florida credentialing without having to take additional training courses or pass the NCLEX-PN. To qualify, they must provide proof of licensing along with their application to the board.

Renewal

Florida LPNs receive certification for 24 months at a time. Prior to the expiration of their licenses, practical nurses must receive continuing education training to qualify for renewal. During each licensing cycle, 24 hours of classes are necessary with nurses completing one hour of training each month. At least two hours of training must relate to medical errors. In addition, practical nurses must periodically take classes on HIV and AIDS and domestic violence. All LPNs submit a renewal application at the end of each licensing cycle.

References

• State of Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation: Labor Market Statistics
• Florida Board of Nursing: Frequently Asked Questions
• Florida Board of Nursing: Approved Nursing Programs
• Florida Board of Nursing: NCLEX Candidate Booklet
• Pearson Vue: Locate an NCLEX Test Center
• Florida Board of Nursing: Continuing Education