In order to work in California as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), individuals must both complete a state-approved LVN California training program and pass a national licensure examination.
In the State of California, the Board of Vocational Nursing & Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) – which is within the Department of Consumer Affairs – approves countless nursing schools that offer official, accredited LVN training and education programs.
This article shows students how to find state-approved LVN CA schools, and explains the requirements which must be fulfilled to be licensed in California as an LVN.
LVN California Licensure Requirements
In order to legally work as a California Licensed Vocational Nurse, individuals must fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete a state-accredited LVN CA training program
- Pass the national NCLEX-PN examination
Those who hold a valid LPN or LVN license in another state can apply for reciprocity from the State of California; reciprocity is the process by which applicants can transfer their out-of-state licensure to California. To do so, interested parties should call (916) 263-7800 and request an application packet.
LVN CA Training Program Elements
In California, BVNPT approves LVN California nursing programs if they both comply with the Vocational Nursing Practice Act and have curricula which properly prepare for the national licensure examination.
Approved programs share the following elements:
- 1,530 total hours of study
- 576 hours of theory
- 954 hours of clinical practice
- 12-24 months for full-time training
- 18-20 months for part-time training
Students enrolled in California LVN programs work in clinical settings, typically hospitals or other advanced medical facilities, and perform (under supervision) basic nursing procedures. In addition to this clinical training, students learn a number of important skill areas in the classroom, including:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Pharmacology
- Psychology
- Nutrition
- Rehabilitation nursing
- Pediatric nursing
- Medical and surgical nursing
- Gerontological nursing
- Disease management
Students who successfully complete a California LVN program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN examination.
Finding LVN California Schools
BVNPT approves 96 LVN nursing programs throughout the State of California, most of which are housed by community colleges, adult education institutes, high schools, occupational centers, and hospitals.
For a complete listing of accredited LVN schools, reference the BVNPT program listing.
Benefits of an LVN CA Education
Those who successfully complete a California LVN training program are eligible to sit for the national NCLEX-PN examination, which tests four core areas:
- Safe and effective care
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial integrity
- Physiological integrity
Those who pass the examination become legally certified California Licensed Vocational Nurses capable of working as entry-level care-givers in medical facilities throughout the state.
For additional information on nursing education, see also:
The Best Nursing Programs Online
CNA Certification Review
David Harris-Gershon - David Harris-Gershon – a blogger for Tikkun magazine and a freelance writer on Israel, the Middle East and America’s role in ...
Join the Conversation