Should I keep my LPN license active?

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Just curious about what other nurses have done. My LPN license doesn't expire until 2011. I am now an RN, which doesn't expire until 2013.

I am working as an RN but was wondering what I should do when my LPN license expires.

Are there any advantages to keeping both licenses active?

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Specializes in Medical Surgical & Nursing Manaagement.

I would not pay the $$ to keep it, since you are held to the highest level of licensure.

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Specializes in L&D/Postpartum/Newborn, Home Health.

I agree, I really see now point in having both an LPN and an RN license-you are held to the standard of the highest license you have anyway-which would be the RN.

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Specializes in Give me a new assignment each time:).

If I could afford it, I'd keep the LVN license too. It only gives you more flexibility if you have less job opportunities in your area. For example if a new grad RN cannot find a job, that new grad could still be working as LVN if he/she has active LVN license. If what I'm saying is not how it is, then somebody correct me please.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

I don't believe that you are allowed to keep both licenses active. I think that your RN license effectively eliminates your LVN license.

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Specializes in Geriatrics, Home Health.

Even if you're in a state where nurses are allowed to be RNs and LP(V)Ns at the same time, why would you want to keep your lower license active?

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I'm not sure why I would want to...other then maybe flexibility? I am also very attached to my LPN license, since I worked really hard for it :-)

I was just curious as to what others have done.

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I didn't. I wouldn't be hired here as an LPN. And I hated being one -- very limited scope in NYS -- so wouldn't want to work as one again.

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Specializes in LTC Family Practice.

Check with your BON sometimes they will allow you to put it on inactive status for a small fee and for what ever reason in the future you could re-activate.

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Specializes in med/surg/tele/neuro/rehab/corrections.

I have both as well and they don't expire until 2011. I wasn't sure what I was going to do either when the time came. There are many job opportunities here and I know the BON lets you keep both. :)

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