Build your plan to become a nurse

Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is the fastest, lowest-cost way to start working as a nurse — about 12 to 18 months. Answer five quick questions and we'll map your fastest honest route into nursing — the LPN fast-track, an Accelerated BSN, or straight to RN — with timeline, cost, and pay for each.

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Question 1 of 520%

Where are you starting from?

Be honest — this changes the fastest route for you.

Why LPN is the fastest way into nursing

A licensed practical nurse (LPN — called an LVN in California and Texas) is a fully licensed nurse you can become in about a year. For career changers, it's the quickest, lowest-cost way to start working in healthcare as a licensed professional — and it bridges cleanly to registered nurse (RN) later if you want more pay and scope. That's why so many nurses start here.

But it isn't right for everyone. If you already hold a bachelor's degree and your goal is RN, an Accelerated BSN usually gets you there faster overall. The planner above will tell you straight — we'd rather send you down the right path than the one that happens to be ours.

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Once you have your plan, dig into accredited programs where you live:

LPN programs in FloridaLPN programs in TexasLPN programs in GeorgiaAll LPN programsFull LPN guide
Is becoming an LPN the right first step for me?
It depends on your goal, timeline, and budget. Becoming an LPN is the fastest, lowest-cost way to become a licensed nurse — about 12 to 18 months. But if you already hold a bachelor's degree and want to be an RN, an Accelerated BSN is usually faster overall. The planner above weighs your answers and tells you honestly which route fits.
How long does it take to become an LPN?
Most practical nursing (LPN) programs take 12 to 18 months of full-time study, including supervised clinical hours. Part-time and evening options take longer but let you keep working while you study.
Can I become an RN after I'm an LPN?
Yes. LPN-to-RN bridge programs give you credit for your practical nursing coursework, so you don't start over. Many LPNs bridge to an associate degree (ADN) RN while working, then finish an online RN-to-BSN with employer tuition help.
Do I need experience or a degree to start an LPN program?
No. Practical nursing programs generally require a high-school diploma or GED and a clean background check — not prior healthcare experience or a college degree. Prior experience as a CNA, MA, or caregiver can help, but it isn't required.
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