Challenging the LVN Boards (CA)

NurseMorse · Mar 10, 2014

Do you also have NCLEX-PN study materials? I ask because pharm is great, but to really prepare, you might want to test yourself by getting Saunders or whichever NCLEX PN study manual you like. Maybe even sign up for Kaplan NCLEX course to better prepare.

If you are eligible to challenge, then study study and pass!

Best of luck to you!

hopefulnurse5 · Mar 10, 2014

Hi NurseMorse,

Thank you for your response. I do have LVN Saunders NCLEX Review book and several study materials. From a Pediatric and Maternal books to Drug books to a skills book. I feel that I am trying to prepare myself the best way I can. My concern is how long the paper works will process and if I will have a hard time finding a job and finding a bridge program. I was thinking of doing vocation lvm program just to be safe and acquire the skills there but spending 30k on a program scares me.

vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN · Mar 10, 2014

Don't spend the money! Challenge the boards! I know people who have done it!! I'm in CA like you. Lvn schools without wait lists are very expensive! I did pay the money because I had only been a CNA for less than a year before starting Lvn school. I've worked with nurses who have challenged the boards. It can be done!

Best wishes to you!

I recommend you use specific NCLEX study tools , such as Hearst, Kaplan, and I also used 2 apps: NCLEX mastery and iPhone app: NCLEX PN by upward mobility. I didn't use Hearst but my best friend did. We both passed on 1st try.

HTH!

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Mar 10, 2014

Just be aware if you challenge the boards some employers may not be able to hire you and the license is only valid for CA/not endorsable to any other state. (This is bolded on the BVNPT website) This is a non-issue if you have no plans to leave CA. Nurses who tried to endorse an alternate method LVN to other states were denied when attempting to endorse as they did not graduate from a practical/vocational nursing program.

Check potential LVN to RN bridge programs to see if you are eligible for acceptance for having an alternate-route LVN license.

Forewarned is forearmed. If you get the answers you seek, best of luck in challenging the LVN in CA.

bkonagold101 · Mar 1, 2015

I am in the same situation. A few of the cnas at my job have already challenged the boards and working on med-surg as a lvn. They had plenty of time to develop skills threw work experience. I will have enough experience next year. Have you submitted your application?

I currently reside in San Diego, CA. I am a CNA at the moment and have been working as a CNA for the pass 7 years in a acute care facility (hospital). I have med/surg, maternity, peds., and tele experience under my belt and currently taking a online pharmacology class to fulfill the last requirement to challenge to LVN boards! So...my question is

Has anyone in my position with similar experience challenged the LVN boards successfully? I want to know how long it took from the day you sent out your application to the day the boards sent you the letter for the approval to test. And also was it hard finding a job or getting in a RN step up program.

Thank you.

Im really considering Kaplans LVN program.

caliotter3 · Mar 1, 2015

Be certain to follow up if you think the process is taking longer than necessary. I was wondering and found out that one of my employers never sent in the paperwork at all. I substituted other information when resubmitting and the application was acted upon expeditiously.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Mar 1, 2015

Most bridge programs require you to be a graduate of an LPN/LVN program. You need to check into that first to know whether it's an option

caliotter3 · Mar 2, 2015

Challenging the LVN NCLEX is an option in CA. The requirements are posted on the BVNPT website.

Funmie · Sep 25, 2016

I really like what you said, I know a lot of people challenge the board, but they wount tell you. Thanks for your motivation.

Funmie · Sep 25, 2016

If I were you, I wount asked such a questions, because I known you're qualified since you have hospital experience. I wish I have the experience you had, med surge and all kind of experience, please, all I will ask is if they know the best book to study for me to pass my LVN.

Msie · Jun 5, 2019

Hi everyone I’m currenly a cna I’ve been a cna since 2013 and I have peds/maternity experience as well. I was working in a nursing home for almost 2 years and peds subacute for 3 years and 3 years in adult sub acute and I’m getting the 54 hr pharmacology online so my questions Is what is the step by step process ??I know first I have to get a application packet and I will just give the application to my employers and I don’t have to do anything? And they need to send it to the board? Who needs to sign? . I’m really confused please someone tell me what to do. Thank u ?