In short
LPN programs usually take about a year at a community college or technical school and combine classes with supervised clinical work. Graduates pass the NCLEX-PN exam to get licensed. LPNs earned a median of $64,400 in May 2025, per BLS, and often work in nursing homes, home health and clinics.
| Median pay | $64,400 a year, about $30.96 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| Typical way in | Certificate |
| Jobs in the U.S. | About 666,900 (2025) |
| Outlook, 2025 to 2035 | Projected growth of 3% |
| Openings each year | About 51,800 on average, including replacements |
| Licensing exam | NCLEX-PN |
| Where they work | Nursing and residential care, home health, physician offices, hospitals |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025 to 2035 and May 2025 wages, BLS. National figures; pay where you live can be higher or lower, and starting pay is lower than the median.
What LPNs do
LPNs check vital signs, give certain medications, change dressings, help with personal care and report changes to the RN. In long-term care, an LPN may run a hallway of residents. What they can do varies by state.
Getting in
Programs often require a high school diploma or GED, an entrance test and sometimes CNA experience. The schedule is demanding, with clinical rotations at set times. Some schools offer evening or part-time tracks.
After the license
Many LPNs later take a bridge program to become registered nurses, working as LPNs while they study. Compare the two in LPN vs RN.
See LPN programs near you
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Questions people ask
How long does it take to become an LPN?
Most programs take about a year full time.
What is the difference between LPN and LVN?
Only the name. California and Texas use LVN.
Is the NCLEX-PN hard?
It is a serious exam, but good programs prepare you, and you can retake it if needed.