Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) both provide direct patient care, but they differ in education, responsibilities, and career options. In some states, LPNs are called licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), and the role is the same. This guide compares the two so you can choose the right starting point.
The short answer
- LPN/LVN: a shorter, lower-cost path that lets you start working in nursing sooner, usually under the direction of an RN or physician.
- RN: a longer path with a broader scope of practice, more job options, and more room to advance.
LPN vs. RN at a glance
| LPN/LVN | RN | |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Certificate or diploma program, often about a year to 18 months | ADN (about 2 years) or BSN (about 4 years) |
| Licensing exam | NCLEX-PN | NCLEX-RN |
| Typical duties | Basic care, vital signs, medications as allowed by state law, and wound care | Patient assessment, care planning, administering treatments, and coordinating care |
| Supervision | Usually works under an RN or physician | Greater independence, and often supervises LPNs and aides |
| Common workplaces | Nursing homes, clinics, home health, rehabilitation | Hospitals, clinics, schools, public health, and many specialty settings |
What does an LPN do?
LPNs provide basic nursing care. Typical tasks include taking vital signs, helping patients with daily activities, changing dressings, collecting samples, and giving certain medications. The exact duties depend on state law and the employer, so scope of practice varies.
What does an RN do?
RNs assess patients, develop and update care plans, give treatments and medications, interpret results, and teach patients and families. They often coordinate with doctors and other healthcare staff, and many supervise LPNs and nursing assistants. RNs can also specialize in areas such as emergency, pediatric, surgical, or critical care.
Education and time
LPN programs are offered by technical schools and community colleges and focus on core clinical skills. RN programs are longer and include more coursework in science, assessment, and leadership. Both involve classroom learning and supervised clinical hours, and both require passing a licensing exam. See our guides to the NCLEX-RN and ADN vs. BSN.
Career growth
RNs generally have more options for specialization, leadership, and graduate study, such as nurse practitioner programs. LPNs can also advance by moving into an RN program through an LPN-to-RN bridge, which often gives credit for prior learning and shortens the path. This lets you start working as an LPN, gain experience, and continue your education later.
Which should you choose?
- Consider your timeline. If you want to work in healthcare as soon as possible, an LPN program is faster.
- Consider your budget. LPN programs usually cost less, but RNs generally have greater long-term earning and career options.
- Think about your goals. If you want leadership, specialty roles, or advanced practice, plan on becoming an RN.
- Check local job postings. Employers differ in whom they hire, and settings such as hospitals often prefer RNs.
Frequently asked questions
Is an LPN the same as an LVN?
Yes. The title LVN, for licensed vocational nurse, is used in California and Texas. The roles are very similar.
Can an LPN become an RN?
Yes. LPN-to-RN bridge programs let working LPNs earn an ADN or BSN, often in less time than starting from scratch.
Which makes more money?
RNs generally earn more than LPNs, though pay varies by location, employer, and experience. For current figures, check the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Ready to compare options? Browse our directory of nursing schools by state and program level.
This article is for general information only. Scope of practice and requirements vary by state, so verify details with your state board of nursing.
