Healthcare
How to become a licensed vocational nurse (LVN/LPN)
Give nursing care like checking vitals and giving medicine.
About $62,000 typical pay. Training time: 12–18 month program, then the NCLEX-PN exam. How to start: Training program first.
Take the career quiz See first steps
What does a licensed vocational nurse (LVN/LPN) do?
Licensed vocational nurses, called LPNs in most states, check vital signs, give medications, and care for patients under the direction of registered nurses and doctors. Programs take 12 to 18 months, followed by the NCLEX-PN licensing exam.
What the work is like
- Physical: Moderately physical. Some lifting and time on your feet.
- Heights: Little or no work at heights.
- Blood and medical: You'll regularly see blood, needles, or injuries.
- Schedule: Nights, weekends, long shifts, or rotations are common.
- Travel: You'll usually work close to home.
- Math: Some everyday math.
Steps to become a licensed vocational nurse (LVN/LPN)
Training: 12–18 month program, then the NCLEX-PN exam.
- Look up LVN programs at your community college and ask about the waitlist.
- Start as a CNA to earn money and get an edge in admissions.
- Fill out the FAFSA. Many LVN programs qualify for Pell.
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Where licensed vocational nurse (LVN/LPN) jobs are in demand
Texas
- Houston and the Gulf Coast: Refineries, chemical plants, ports, and the Texas Medical Center all need skilled workers.
- San Antonio area: A big military presence, a large medical center, aircraft maintenance at Port San Antonio, and growing cyber jobs.
- Rio Grande Valley and Laredo: Healthcare is growing fast, and border trade keeps trucks and warehouses busy.
- East Texas: Utilities, timber, manufacturing, and rural healthcare are hiring.
- El Paso: Fort Bliss, cross-border manufacturing and trucking, and a growing medical sector.
California
- Central Valley: Farming needs mechanics and drivers, and new solar and healthcare jobs are growing.
- Bay Area and Sacramento: Electric cars, solar, chip makers, and a big push to upgrade buildings.
Ohio
- Southern Ohio: Manufacturing and new battery plants, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, and a growing need for nurses and drivers in rural counties.
Indiana
- Indiana: One of the most manufacturing-heavy states (cars, RVs, steel, and batteries), and a crossroads for trucking and warehouses.
Regional demand is a general guide. Check with your local workforce office for current openings.
How to pay for licensed vocational nurse (LVN/LPN) training
Training programs for this career often qualify for financial aid.
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for a Pell grant. Since 2026, Workforce Pell can also cover some short programs of 8 to 15 weeks. High school CTE and dual credit classes are often free.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a licensed vocational nurse (LVN/LPN) make?
Typical pay is about $62,000, based on approximate national medians. Starting pay is usually lower, and pay varies by area and experience.
How long does it take to become a licensed vocational nurse (LVN/LPN)?
12–18 month program, then the NCLEX-PN exam.
Can you get paid while training?
Sometimes. Most people complete a training program first, though some employers offer paid training or help with tuition.
Do you need a college degree?
No. This career doesn't require a four-year degree.
Similar careers to explore
- Certified nursing assistant (CNA): About $39,000. 4–12 week course. Many nursing homes pay for it
- Medical assistant: About $44,000. 9–12 month certificate
- Pharmacy technician: About $43,000. Weeks to months. Many pharmacies train you
- Phlebotomist: About $41,000. 4–8 week program
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