working without a license

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Hey everyone I will be a PN grad in 4 months and I was wondering if you can work without a license? I want to go right back into school for my RN but I still want to work as an LPN and if i dont have to spend the $300 on my state boards Id rather wait until I got my RN. I know a new grad who works as a grad nurse but she is an RN grad nurse. Any help appreciated.

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Specializes in cardiac/critical care/ informatics.

You can not work as a nurse without a license, you usually can work pending results.

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Specializes in Oncology/Haemetology/HIV.

As far as I know, you cannot work as GPN unless you have applied for Boards, and then you can only work as a GPN, until you have passed or failed the Boards. As a general rule, there are limits on how long you can work as a GPN before you have to take Boards.

You might be able to work as an aide, though.

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I have just finished my LPN schooling as of this past Monday. I was offered a position with a local hospital and they can hire you. However, I am not able to sign up or complete orientation until I have my letter that states I am eligible to sit for the boards. After that time, I can do orientation, etc and work as an "LPN applicant" for xx number of days (I'm not sure of the exact number) while I am waiting to take my exam. I haven't gotten all of the details yet, but I will have more this afternoon. I hope this information helps answer your question. I can try and answer anything else you may have....

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

Some states allow you to get a TPP (temporary practice permit) which will allow you to work as a GPN until you take and pass the NCLEX. You will have to work under the supervision of an RN and there are some things that you may not be able to di until you pass boards. If someone does hire you as a GPN there is usually a limit as to how long they will allow you to work until you MUST take the NCLEX. The hospital I was hired at as a GPN gave me 6 months from the time I was hired to take and pass the NCLEX. Some places give you as little as 3 months, just depends on the facility. If you do get a TPP and fail the NCLEX then your permit is no longer valid and you can't work as GPN anymore.

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