LPN program, moving out of state

[Nursethingz]

Hello everyone!

I have some questions for anyone that is willing to help me!

A little insight, I’m 20 years old. I live in Georgia and I’m currently a full time college student in the process of applying to the LPN program for this fall semester.

My plan is to move to Dallas, Texas as soon as I graduate and I was wondering what would be required as far as moving out of state as a fresh newbie nurse. I heard there is a certain process in order to move and work out of state as a nurse, and I would really appreciate if y’all could give me some insight on how the process works and some advice about moving out of state since this is my first time moving on my own!

I also would like to know what would be some good speciality areas for an LPN. I originally wanted to work as a mental health nurse but if I can’t find any job openings for it or if it doesn’t work out for me, I’d like to try other specialties!

[TheMoonisMyLantern, ADN, LPN, RN]

So, I don't have concrete answers but I'll provide what input I can!

First I would look to see if Georgia and Texas are compact licensure states, if they are then being licensed in Texas will be no problem. If they aren't you'll have a decision to make, either test for licensure in Georgia, or do it for Texas. 

My knowledge is a bit dated when it comes to Texas. But as of around 5 years ago opportunities were quite plentiful for LVN's which is what LPN's are called in Texas. Texas also has a very wide scope of practice for LVN's so they are utilized in more acute settings which is nice if you're interested in that. LVN's are definitely utilized in mental health especially state psychiatric facilities so I really don't think you'll have trouble finding work if you want to do mental health, we certainly need more psych nurses!!

Other things to think about would be corrections, dialysis, outpatient clinics, acute care med/surg, LTC and SNF, Home care private duty,  as far as home health and hospice I would recommend at least 1 year of experience before diving in.

There's lots of things you can do as an LPN, I learned a lot from being one. Good luck!

[Floor_Nurse]

Both Georgia & Texas are compact states, but you should pass the NCLEX in your current state first. The Texas BON is in Austin...200 miles south of Dallas. There's an abundance of nurse jobs in the Lone Star state, plus alot of traffic headaches, especially in the DFW area. There's some "bait-and-switch" agencies that will make promises about working at a state supported living center (like the one in Denton that's on the north side). Look at the news articles on Denton S.S.L.C. and you'll wonder why it hasn't been shut down yet. Plus, be sure to check out the bene's (benefits) for an employer and get your pay rate in writing.

I have experience at another S.S.L.C. (not Denton) and it ended up being an unpleasant job experience. 

Another unexpected thing is that you should be aware of: if there's a big sports event (like the big U.T.- O.U. football game) you can expect heavy traffic all the way to the top of the state, headed toward Oklahoma! 

[chare]

If you know that you're going to relocate to TX after graduation, apply for initial licensure in TX.  The timing on receiving your license will be about the same, and it saves the cost of a license that you don't need.

If you are unsure whether you will be relocating after graduation then obtaining licensure in GA makes sense; particularly if you are eligible for multi-state privileges.

Best wishes.

[Nunya, BSN]

One big thing is unless you have lots of savings you should have a job before you move.  Some say that employers don't like to interview out of state people in case they decide not to move but I think moving without a job is risky.

[Nursethingz]

Thank you for your feedback everyone! I will make sure to follow the advice that was given to me by everyone! ❤️

[TJai1995]

What LPN program are you in, if you don't mind me asking?