I'm an RN in Philippines, can I apply as LVN

Editorial Team / Admin · Oct 27, 2016

In order to work as an LPN, you will need to be licensed as an LPN. How that is accomplished is generally by completion of an LPN program and NCLEX-PN. Some states may allow other methods to qualify for the opportunity to take NCLEX-PN.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Oct 29, 2016

Hello! I am having this big problem because I am currently residing at California. You know how hard it is to get license here. I am already a registered nurse in the Philippines and currently processing my papers here. What work should I apply as of this moment? I've heard there are some people who have a situation like mine who applied as LVN. If I apply for LVN do i need to take an examination for it?

Application for Vocational Nurse Licensure by Examination - Board of Vocational Nursing & Psychiatric Technicians

You may be able to apply for licensure by examination under option #3 (relevant education or experience). See here for the specifics: Method 3: Qualification Based on Equivalent Education and/or Experience - Board of Vocational Nursing & Psychiatric Technicians

However, you will likely NOT be able to endorse this LVN license outside of California, as most other states require LVN/LPNs to graduate from an accredited LVN/LPN program. While the scope of practice of a RN encompasses that of a LVN, a RN program is not a LVN program. I

If you're going to work just in CA while you're waiting for RN licensure, the endorsement hiccup won't be an issue. It would be a potential issue if you don't get licensed as a RN in CA and plan to move to another state to work as a LVN.

Best of luck.