LPN or RN: what is the difference?
An RN completes a longer program (2 to 4 years), takes the NCLEX-RN and has a wider scope of practice. An LPN completes about a year of training and takes the NCLEX-PN. The median RN earns $97,550, 51% more than the median LPN at $64,400.
Side by side
| LPN or LVN | Registered nurse | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical training | About 1 year | 2 years (ADN) to 4 years (BSN) |
| Licensing exam | NCLEX-PN (86.6% first-time pass rate, 2025) | NCLEX-RN (86.7%) |
| Median pay | $64,400 | $97,550 |
| Employed | 648,410 | 3,379,720 |
| Projected growth | 3% | 5.6% |
| Supervision | Works under an RN or physician | Broader scope; supervises LPNs and aides |
How to choose
Many people start as an LPN for a faster, cheaper entry, then bridge to RN while working. Others go straight to RN. The extra years pay back in pay and in options: management, public health and graduate study generally require RN status.
See nursing degree requirements for lengths and RN pay by state and LPN pay by state.
Pay and projections: Bureau of Labor Statistics. NCLEX figures: NCSBN. Enrollment: AACN. Sources and years are ondata sources.