Travel Licensed Practical Nurse Salary Guide

To become an LPN, you must complete a diploma program, which costs less and takes much less time than earning an associate or bachelor’s degree. Working as an LPN is extremely rewarding. You can continue doing it until you retire or use your LPN job to gain experience before enrolling in an RN-to-BSN program. These programs cost less and take less time than traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs. Some people even start as LPNs, become RNs and then go on to complete graduate degrees in nursing.

Pass the NCLEX-PN

No matter your chosen career path, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This exam demonstrated you have the knowledge and skills needed to practice nursing without putting patients in harm’s way. State Boards of Nursing (BON) also require passing the NCLEX for licensure.

The NCLEX-PN includes questions on psychology, anatomy and physiology. It also covers the following subcategories, which relate to patient care and clinical judgment:

• Caring

• Patient Communication

• Documentation

• Culture and Spirituality

• Problem-Solving in a Clinical Setting

• Teaching and Learning

The Next Generation NCLEX has new question types and scoring model, although some changes only impact RNs, not LPNs. Should you not pass the NCLEX-PN on your first attempt, use your Candidate Performance Report to determine which topics you need to study before your next attempt. 

Don’t worry if you don’t pass the first time you take the NCLEX-PN. Standardized tests are tricky. Even the most competent nursing professionals may have difficulty answering some questions. Just keep studying and try again when you’re ready.

Licensure Requirements

Each State BON issues nursing licenses and establishes professional standards for LPNs and RNs. Licensure requirements vary by state, so check with your BON to determine what you need to do to obtain your LPN license. Generally, you must complete an approved LPN education program, pass the NCLEX-PN and pay a registration fee. You may also have to take classes, give presentations or participate in other activities to earn continuing education credits to keep your license.