LVN and LPN, HELP!

Published

hi everyone, im currently an LVN student in the state of california. i have plans of moving out of state to north carolina, which my job title will be referred to as LPN, what is the difference? will i need some other kind of certification to work in north carolina? im kinda freaking out, and i need help! thanks :]

Up Vote Up Vote ×

When you move to NC, you will endorse your LVN license to NC, and will receive a NC LPN license. No difference, just different title used in CA and TX. However, you will be held to the nurse practice act for LPNs in NC, which may have differences from that in CA. Each state has its own Nurse Practice Act.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

If you are immediately moving, you may want to obtain a NC license and save yourself the money of a CA license that you won't be able to use. That is if you do not intend to return to CA and do not want to keep a CA license active.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

that makes sense, but i wont be impossible for me to get a job right? i was freaking out, i heard i had to receive some other kind of certification, and that it would be a long process. as soon as im finished with my lvn program im moving out to north carolina, i hope i dont need anything else! i might be back to california years from now, not at the moment. how much would i have to pay to get it changed?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You have to find out specifics by contacting the Board. When you are ready to take the NCLEX, apply for a NC license instead of a CA license. Save money and time.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

No difference in licensure, just name: LVN used in California and Texas; all other states use LPN credential.

If you are not planning to work in CA, I would just apply for initial license in North Carolina.upon graduating from a BON accredited program.

Best wishes with school. Check out our LPN / LVN Corner forum for more info.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ICU, ER, EP,.

As nurse Karen states, different names for the same thing. Good luck! Glad to have you with us.:D

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Check with North Carolina Board of Nursing for NC LPN Licensing requirements. However if your LVN program is an accredited program, there really shouldn't be any issues. Everything is typically the same. The NCLEX-PN is a standardized national test, and your results are your results and you can be licensed virtually anywhere you desire. SKYS THE LIMIT!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in AA&I, research,peds, radiation oncology.

I was an LPN in Louisiana; now an LVN in Texas. No difference-EXCEPT-the pay is better !!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion