What Is the Difference Between an LPN and an LVN?
Many people exploring nursing careers ask the same question: What is the difference between an LPN and an LVN? Understanding the distinction between a Licensed Practical Nurse and a Licensed Vocational Nurse is important when choosing a nursing program, especially for students searching for the fastest way to become a nurse or comparing LPN vs LVN career paths.
Although the job titles sound different, the roles are far more similar than most people realize.
What Is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?
A Licensed Practical Nurse, commonly called an LPN, is a nurse who provides direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. Licensed Practical Nursing focuses on essential nursing skills such as patient monitoring, medication administration, wound care, vital signs, documentation, and assisting with daily living activities.
LPNs complete a Practical Nursing Program, earn an LPN license, and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. In Oklahoma and most states, the Licensed Practical Nurse title is used rather than LVN.
What Is a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)?
A Licensed Vocational Nurse, or LVN, performs the same nursing duties as an LPN but practices in states that use the vocational nursing title. The LVN title is most commonly used in California and Texas.
LVNs complete a Vocational Nursing Program, pass the NCLEX-PN exam, and receive LVN licensure through their state board of nursing. The training, exam, and scope of practice are nearly identical to Licensed Practical Nursing.
LPN vs LVN: Are They the Same?
Yes, in practice, LPN and LVN are the same role. The difference between LPN and LVN is primarily the job title used by different states, not the education or responsibilities.
Both LPNs and LVNs:
Complete practical or vocational nursing programs
Take the NCLEX-PN exam
Provide bedside patient care
Work under RN or physician supervision
Perform medication administration and clinical nursing skills
The difference is regional terminology rather than function.
LPN vs LVN Scope of Practice
When comparing LPN vs LVN scope of practice, there is no meaningful difference. Scope of practice is governed by each state’s nursing practice act, but LPN and LVN duties typically include:
Patient care nursing
Medication administration nursing
Clinical nursing skills
Monitoring patient conditions
Documentation and reporting
Assisting with procedures
Infection control and safety
Whether the nurse is called an LPN or LVN, the responsibilities remain the same within that state.
Education and Training: LPN Program vs LVN Program
An LPN program and an LVN program follow the same structure. Students complete classroom instruction, skills lab training, and supervised clinical experience. These programs are often described as:
Practical Nursing Program
Vocational Nursing Program
LPN LVN training program
Practical and vocational nursing school
Most programs are completed in 12 months and may offer evening, weekend, part-time, or accelerated formats. Some schools also offer hybrid LPN LVN programs with online coursework.
Licensure and Exam Requirements
Both Licensed Practical Nurses and Licensed Vocational Nurses must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This national exam is the same for LPNs and LVNs and is required for licensure.
There is no separate LVN exam or LPN exam. The NCLEX-PN exam qualifies graduates for either LPN licensure or LVN licensure, depending on the state.
Salary Comparison: LPN vs LVN
When comparing LPN vs LVN salary, earnings are similar nationwide. Differences in pay are based on location, employer, specialty, and experience rather than job title.
LPN salary and LVN salary may vary by state, but the role itself is compensated at comparable rates. Both roles offer higher pay than CNA positions and provide a pathway to registered nursing careers.
Career Opportunities for LPNs and LVNs
Licensed Practical Nurse jobs and Licensed Vocational Nurse jobs are available in many healthcare settings, including:
Hospitals
Clinics
Long-term care facilities
Assisted living communities
Home health agencies
Correctional facilities
Rehabilitation centers
Job titles may differ, but employment opportunities and responsibilities remain consistent.
Career Advancement: LPN or LVN to RN
Both LPNs and LVNs can advance their careers through bridge programs. Popular options include:
LPN to RN program
LVN to RN program
LPN LVN to RN bridge
ADN or BSN pathways
Many nurses use practical or vocational nursing as a stepping stone to registered nursing.
Choosing Between LPN and LVN Programs
Students do not choose between becoming an LPN or LVN based on preference. The decision is determined by the state where you plan to practice. Oklahoma uses the Licensed Practical Nurse title, while other states may use Licensed Vocational Nurse.
If you plan to work across states, licensure endorsement allows LPNs and LVNs to transfer credentials according to state requirements.
Is LPN or LVN Worth It?
For those asking if LPN or LVN is worth it, practical and vocational nursing offers one of the fastest routes into licensed nursing. These programs provide job stability, strong demand, competitive pay, and opportunities for advancement.
For students seeking an entry-level nursing career, Licensed Practical Nursing and Vocational Nursing remain excellent options.