Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vs. Registered Nurse (RN): Explaining The Difference for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Choosing a career in nursing can be confusing, especially when considering the different paths available. Many aspiring nurses struggle to understand the distinctions between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Registered Nurse (RN), making it difficult to choose the right path for their career goals. This is particularly important given the robust job outlook for Registered Nurses, with employment projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033. Understanding the differences between LPN and RN roles is crucial for those looking to capitalize on this growth.

Research.com’s team has over ten years of expertise in career planning, and this article utilizes only credible sources to provide accurate and up-to-date information. By reading this guide, you will understand the educational requirements, job responsibilities, and career prospects for both LPNs and RNs, enabling you to make an informed decision about your nursing career.

Key Things You Should Know About Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vs Registered Nurse (RN)

LPNs complete a one-year training program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) exam. They provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs or physicians. RNs, on the other hand, earn either an associate's or a bachelor's degree in nursing. This education qualifies them to handle more complex medical tasks, create care plans, and practice independently.
Registered Nurses earn a median annual salary of approximately $87,868, while LPNs earn about $62,140 per year. This significant difference in pay reflects the varying levels of education, job responsibilities, and scope of practice between these two nursing roles.
The job outlook for both LPNs and RNs is positive. From 2023 to 2033, RN positions are projected to increase by 6%, and LPN positions by 3%. This growth signifies a continuing need for both types of nurses in the healthcare field.
Required continuing education hours vary by state. Some states may require as few as eight (8) hours, while others may require 30 or more.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 54,000 openings for LPNs annually over the next decade, while RNs are expected to see 194,500 job opportunities.

What are the differences in curriculum between LPN and RN programs?
Do LPNs need an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree to become an RN for 2025?
What can RNs do that LPNs cannot?
What career paths are available for LPNs and RNs for 2025?
What are the different specializations an RN and LPN can pursue?
Do RNs earn more than LPNs?
Is advanced education worth the investment in your nursing career?
Should I pursue an advanced degree to expand my nursing career?
Can advanced practice credentials transform your nursing career?
What are the long-term career advancement opportunities for LPNs and RNs?
Are affordable online advanced nursing programs a viable option for career growth?
What factors should you consider when choosing a nursing program?
How does the job market for LPNs compare to RNs?
What advantages do accelerated MSN WHNP programs online offer over traditional MSN programs?
Can pursuing an advanced practice role such as FNP enhance your nursing career?
Are there continuing education requirements for LPNs and RNs?
How to Get RN and LPN Licenses
What are the pros and cons of being an RN or an LPN?
Other Things You Should Know About Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vs Registered Nurse (RN)

What are the differences in curriculum between LPN and RN programs?

The curriculum differences between Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse programs are significant and reflect the varying levels of training and responsibilities associated with each role:

Duration

LPN programs usually take 12 to 14 months to complete. RN programs, however, require two (2) to four (4) years of study.

Course Content

LPN programs cover foundational nursing topics such as:

Nursing fundamentals
Basic anatomy and physiology
Pharmacology
Monitoring vital signs
Administering medications
Basic patient care

RN programs include more advanced and comprehensive coursework:

Advanced nursing topics
Critical thinking skills
Specialized areas like pediatrics and critical care nursing
Management of care
Pharmacological therapies
Health promotion for complex conditions

Clinical Experience

Both Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse programs include clinical practice. However, RN programs offer more extensive and varied clinical experiences. LPN students complete supervised practicums in healthcare facilities. RN students complete longer practicums in a wider range of healthcare settings.

Focus and Depth

LPN programs emphasize hands-on, practical training. RN programs, on the other hand, balance classroom theory and clinical practice. RN curricula also cover more complex nursing principles and leadership skills.

Exam Preparation

Licensed Practical Nurse programs prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam, which covers basic patient care and is generally considered less challenging. Registered Nurse programs, however, prepare students for the more comprehensive National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam, which assesses advanced nursing skills, critical thinking, and decision-making.

Research.com has curated the list of the best schools for Registered Nurses to help aspiring and current nurses find top-tier educational programs.

Do LPNs need an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree to become an RN for 2025?

LPNs do not need a full associate's or bachelor's degree to become RNs. They can enroll in LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge programs. These programs build upon LPNs' existing education and experience, allowing them to earn their RN credentials more quickly than through traditional programs.

LPN to ADN programs usually take one (1) to two (2) years to finish, and LPN to BSN programs typically take two (2) to four (4) years. Both program types prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required for RN licensure.

The choice between pursuing an ADN or BSN depends on the LPN's career goals:

The LPN to ADN pathway is shorter and prepares LPNs for entry-level RN positions, where they may even supervise other LPNs.
The LPN to BSN pathway is longer but opens up more career opportunities. These include better chances for promotions, management roles, and specialized nursing positions.

The chart below shows the percentage of LPNs and RNs who take either associate's or bachelor's degree

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for the cheapest ADN online programs, our team of experts has compiled a list of top-rated options, taking into account tuition costs, accreditation, and student support.

What can RNs do that LPNs cannot?

RNs have a wider scope of practice than LPNs. They can:

Create and implement complete patient care plans.
Administer intravenous therapy (IV) medications and medications through central lines.
Perform and interpret diagnostic tests.
Supervise and delegate tasks to LPNs and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs).
Practice independently in most settings.
Assess patients and conduct physical exams.
Provide more complex care, often with lower patient-to-nurse ratios.
Collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals on treatment plans.
Provide emergency care, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
Educate patients and families on complex medical conditions and treatments.
Make independent nursing diagnoses.
Operate advanced medical equipment.
Assume leadership roles.
Practice with greater autonomy and decision-making power.

What career paths are available for LPNs and RNs for 2025?

Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses have diverse career paths available to them in various healthcare settings. Here are some options for each:

LPN Career Paths

Hospital LPNs: They work in fast-paced settings like emergency rooms, operating rooms, or maternity units, where they assist RNs and physicians.
Nursing Home and Residential Care: Nursing homes and residential care facilities employ the most LPNs, accounting for 35% of all LPN jobs.
Physician’s Office: LPNs in physician's offices provide routine care and assist with medical procedures.
Home Healthcare: Home healthcare LPNs provide care to patients at home, educating both patients and their families on self-care techniques.
Hospice and Palliative Care: Hospice and palliative care LPNs provide end-of-life care, a role that demands strong empathy and communication skills.
Government Facilities: Government facilities, such as correctional institutions or military bases, employ about 6% of all LPNs.
Insurance Companies: LPNs working for insurance companies conduct healthcare assessments and review documentation, often with the option to work remotely.
Travel Nursing: Travel nursing allows LPNs to take short-term assignments across the country or even internationally.
Remote Work: Remote work opportunities for LPNs include telehealth, data abstraction, remote patient monitoring, and phone triage.
Mental Health Nursing: Mental health nursing LPNs work in psychiatric facilities or with patients experiencing mental health challenges.

RN Career Paths

Hospital Nursing: Hospital RNs work in various specialized units, including intensive care, emergency, and pediatrics.
Nursing Education: RNs can become nurse educators and teach nursing students.
Nursing Management: RNs can move into nursing management roles, where they oversee nursing teams and operations in healthcare facilities.
Specialized Nursing: RNs can specialize in areas like oncology, labor and delivery, or rehabilitation.
Public Health Nursing: Public health RNs work in community health centers or government agencies.
Research Nursing: Research RNs participate in clinical trials and medical research.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN): RNs can pursue advanced education to become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), specializing as a Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, or Certified Nurse Midwife.

If you're looking for the easiest nurse midwife programs to get into, it's important to understand that "easiest" is relative and often depends on individual qualifications and program-specific requirements. However, you can look for programs that may have less competitive admissions standards or those that focus on holistic admissions.

What are the different specializations an RN and LPN can pursue?

Both Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses have opportunities to specialize in various areas of nursing, though RNs generally have more options for specialization.

RN Specializations

Registered Nurses can pursue numerous specializations, including:

Emergency Nursing (CEN certification): Emergency nurses work in fast-paced environments, providing urgent care to patients with acute conditions. The Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) credential validates expertise in managing patients with strokes, heart attacks, burns, and other emergencies.
Critical Care (CCRN certification): Critical Care nurses specialize in treating patients with life-threatening conditions in intensive care units. The CCRN certification demonstrates advanced knowledge and skills in providing care to critically ill patients.
Neonatal Intensive Care (RNC-NIC certification): Neonatal Intensive Care nurses specialize in caring for premature and critically ill newborns. The RNC-NIC certification demonstrates expertise in managing complex neonatal conditions and supporting families during this critical time.
Oncology Nursing: Oncology nurses provide care for cancer patients, managing treatments, and side effects, and offering emotional support. This specialization typically involves administering chemotherapy, managing symptoms, and educating patients about their condition and treatment options.
Pediatric Nursing (RN-BC certification): Pediatric nurses focus on caring for children from infancy through adolescence. The RN-BC certification in Pediatrics, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), validates specialized knowledge and skills in pediatric care.

If you're looking for child development careers, consider your passion for working with children and the specific age group you'd like to focus on. Numerous opportunities exist in education, healthcare, and social services.

LPN Specializations

While LPNs have fewer specialization options compared to RNs, they can still pursue certifications in various areas:

IV Therapy: LPNs can obtain IV certification to perform intravenous therapy procedures. This certification allows them to insert, maintain, and remove peripheral IVs, as well as administer fluids and medications through IV lines.
Wound Care (WCC certification): This specialization focuses on the assessment and treatment of various types of wounds. LPNs with this certification can provide specialized care for patients with chronic wounds, pressure ulcers, and other skin integrity issues.
Long-Term Care (LTC certification): LPNs with this certification specialize in caring for patients of all ages with chronic illnesses. The certification covers care across the lifespan, from newborns to the elderly, in long-term care settings.
Gerontology (GC certification): This specialization focuses on caring for older adults. LPNs with gerontology certification are equipped to address the aging population's unique health needs and challenges. In fact, some choose to pursue further education through steps to become a GNP to expand their career in geriatric care.
Pharmacology (NCP certification): The NAPNES Certification in Pharmacology (NCP) allows LPNs to demonstrate their knowledge of drug classifications, medication administration, and dosage calculations. This certification enhances an LPN's ability to safely administer medications.

What are some recent LPN stats in the USA?

Do RNs earn more than LPNs?

Registered Nurses earn significantly more than Licensed Practical Nurses. RNs earn a median annual salary of approximately $87,868, while LPNs earn about $62,140 per year. Several factors contribute to RNs' higher earning potential:

Their advanced education (at least an Associate Degree in Nursing)
Their greater autonomy and more complex duties compared to LPNs
Their broader career advancement opportunities

Understanding the value behind pursuing an LPN program can help justify the educational costs, especially when looking at LPN school tuition costs and how it compares to long-term salary gains.

Another factor that can influence the salaries for both RNs and LPNs is the location. The chart below shows the top five highest-paying cities for RN and LPN jobs.

Is advanced education worth the investment in your nursing career?

Research indicates that further education can significantly enhance career progression and earning potential in nursing. Evaluating the return on investment involves comparing upfront educational costs with long-term gains such as expanded scope of practice and leadership opportunities. Advanced credentials can open doors to specialized roles, increased responsibilities, and improved job stability. In particular, pursuing higher-level programs like DNP programs can provide a competitive edge in today's dynamic healthcare environment. Prospective students should assess program outcomes, industry demand, and individual career goals to determine if advancing their education offers measurable benefits over time.

Should I pursue an advanced degree to expand my nursing career?

Advanced nursing degrees present unique opportunities for clinical and leadership advancement. They offer a pathway to specialized roles and management positions that extend beyond traditional patient care, allowing professionals to influence healthcare policy and practice. For individuals considering a transition from non-nursing backgrounds or those aiming to accelerate their career trajectory, targeted education programs can be a strategic choice. Evaluating program structure, clinical placements, and credential outcomes is crucial when deciding on the most appropriate educational route. Additionally, exploring direct-entry MSN online programs can provide a streamlined alternative for gaining advanced practice expertise while accommodating a variety of professional experiences.

Can advanced practice credentials transform your nursing career?

Achieving advanced practice credentials can broaden your scope of clinical expertise and leadership opportunities. Targeted programs accelerate the transition into roles that require comprehensive patient management and decision-making skills. For those aiming to deepen their clinical impact without prolonged study periods, reputable tracks—such as the 12 month FNP program—offer strategically designed curricula that address the evolving demands of modern healthcare. This pathway allows practitioners to specialize efficiently, opening doors to enhanced autonomy and expanded professional influence.

What are the long-term career advancement opportunities for LPNs and RNs?

Registered Nurses can access advanced clinical specialties, leadership roles, and management positions through targeted certifications and graduate education. They often benefit from broader career trajectories in areas like critical care, informatics, or policy development. In contrast, Licensed Practical Nurses may initially experience a more limited scope, but can accelerate their professional growth by enrolling in targeted bridge programs. These programs streamline the transition from LPN to RN, providing an efficient pathway for increased responsibility and higher compensation, particularly when opting for cost-effective routes such as the RN to BSN cheapest programs.

Are affordable online advanced nursing programs a viable option for career growth?

Advanced online nursing programs offer a strategic pathway for professionals seeking to broaden their scope beyond LPN and RN roles. These programs emphasize rigorous curriculum, hands-on clinical training, and leadership skills—factors that can directly impact career advancement and earning potential. When selecting an online specialization, it is crucial to assess elements such as program accreditation, student support services, and the balance between cost and curriculum quality. Prospective applicants should consider how targeted specializations, such as those found through AGNP online programs, can fit into their long-term career goals while offering financial viability and flexibility.

What factors should you consider when choosing a nursing program?

When comparing nursing programs, evaluating key elements such as accreditation, curriculum rigor, clinical practice opportunities, and financial aid availability is essential. Prospective students must verify that the program meets state licensing requirements and is recognized by relevant accrediting bodies to ensure a smooth transition into professional roles. Additionally, assessing graduate outcomes—including NCLEX pass rates and career placement statistics—can offer insights into program effectiveness. For those targeting a Bachelor of Science in Nursing pathway, researching options like the easiest BSN program may provide valuable information about cost-effectiveness and program structure that aligns with long-term career goals.

How does the job market for LPNs compare to RNs?

The job market for Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses shows some notable differences:

Growth rate: RNs have a higher projected growth rate of 6% from 2023 to 2033, compared to 3% for LPNs over the same period.
Job openings: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 54,000 openings for LPNs annually over the next decade, while RNs are expected to see 194,500 job opportunities.
Demand factors: Both professions are influenced by the aging population and nursing shortage. However, RNs have more opportunities for specialization and advanced practice roles.
Work Settings: The largest employers of Licensed Practical Nurses are Nursing and residential care facilities at 35%. Meanwhile, the largest employers of Registered Nurses are Hospitals; state, local, and private at 58%.

responsibilities and growth outlook between LPN vs medical assistant can also help clarify which role aligns best with long-term goals.

The chart below shows the job outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses from 2023 to 2033.

What advantages do accelerated MSN WHNP programs online offer over traditional MSN programs?

Accelerated MSN WHNP programs online provide a focused and time-efficient pathway for experienced nurses aiming to specialize in women’s health. These programs integrate advanced clinical training with contemporary coursework, enabling practitioners to quickly transition into roles that require both analytical expertise and compassionate patient care. By adopting a flexible online format, these programs allow for simultaneous professional practice while pursuing further education. The streamlined curriculum emphasizes essential competencies in patient assessment, diagnosis, and management of women’s health conditions, which can enhance clinical decision-making and leadership skills in specialized healthcare settings. For more detailed program options, consider exploring our article detailing accelerated MSN WHNP programs online.

Can pursuing an advanced practice role such as FNP enhance your nursing career?

Advanced practice roles extend the clinical expertise and responsibilities established through LPN and RN careers. This pathway focuses on developing advanced patient management, critical decision-making, and leadership capabilities that are integral to transforming patient care. One beneficial option is exploring affordable family nurse practitioner programs, which offer structured curricula that combine rigorous clinical training with flexible course formats. By targeting these specialized tracks, healthcare professionals can elevate their practice while aligning their career trajectory with evolving industry demands.

Are there continuing education requirements for LPNs and RNs?

Continuing education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses vary significantly by state in the U.S. Here’s a summary of the key points regarding these requirements:

Frequency: Most states require LPNs and RNs to complete continuing education every two (2) to three (3) years to keep their licenses active.
Contact Hours: Required continuing education hours vary by state. Some states may require as few as eight (8) hours, while others may require 30 or more.
Specific Topics: Some states require continuing education on specific topics, such as pharmacology, infection control, or mental health.
Professional Certifications: Professional certifications may have their continuing education requirements, separate from state mandates.
Documentation: Nurses must keep records of their continuing education activities for several years. They may need to show these records when renewing their licenses or during audits.
Exemptions: Some nurses may be exempt from certain continuing education requirements if they have specific certifications or advanced degrees.

How to Get RN and LPN Licenses

Becoming a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse requires specific steps that vary by state.

For Registered Nurses:

Education: Complete an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN).
Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Application: Apply for licensure with the state board, including fees, documentation (proof of education, exam results), and any additional state-specific requirements (e.g., coursework on infection control or child abuse reporting).
Background Check: Complete a criminal background check.

For Licensed Practical Nurses:

Education: Complete an accredited LPN program (typically 12-14 months). Complete an accredited LPN program (typically 12–14 months). Students coming from CNA backgrounds often choose online programs to become an LPN from CNA to build on their experience while maintaining flexibility.
Examination: Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
Application: Apply for licensure with the state board, including fees and required documents.
Background Check: Complete a criminal background check.

Other Information:

Endorsement: Nurses licensed in another state can apply for licensure by endorsement, providing proof of their current license and meeting the new state's requirements.
Internationally Educated Nurses: Nurses educated outside the U.S. must have their credentials evaluated and may have to meet additional requirements before taking the NCLEX exams.

What are the pros and cons of being an RN or an LPN?

Choosing between a career as a Registered Nurse or a Licensed Practical Nurse involves weighing distinct advantages and disadvantages.

RN Pros:

Higher Pay: RNs typically earn significantly more due to their advanced education and broader responsibilities.
Wider Scope of Practice: RNs handle a wider range of tasks, from developing care plans to administering medications and performing complex procedures, offering greater autonomy.
Career Growth: RNs have more opportunities for specialization and advancement into management, education, or advanced practice roles.
High Demand: The demand for RNs is strong, driven by an aging population and a focus on quality healthcare, providing job security.

RN Cons:

Longer Education: Becoming an RN requires a two- to four-year degree, a significant time and financial investment.
Higher Stress: RNs often manage more complex cases and larger patient loads, which can increase stress and burnout risk.

LPN Pros:

Faster Entry: LPN programs usually take about one year, offering a quicker path to a nursing career.
Less Autonomy: LPNs typically work under RN or physician supervision, which some may prefer.
Demand in Specific Areas: LPNs are still in demand, particularly in long-term care and home health.

LPN Cons:

Lower Pay: LPNs earn less than RNs due to their limited scope and education.
Limited Scope: LPNs have fewer responsibilities and less autonomy, focusing on basic patient care.
Fewer Growth Opportunities: LPNs have fewer career advancement options, often requiring further education to become an RN.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vs Registered Nurse (RN)

Balancing work, family, and school always seemed impossible. My LPN program made it doable, and now I'm finally working in healthcare, which is something I've wanted for a long time. - Melina

I was worried about missing out on the classroom experience with an online RN program. However the online discussions and virtual labs were surprisingly engaging, and I felt supported by the instructors. - Ken

Going back to school was daunting, but I was able to finish my RN degree. Now I'm happy to have a stable career that earns good. - Ashley

Other Things You Should Know About Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vs Registered Nurse (RN)

Which is best RN or LPN?

The best choice depends on your goals. RNs have greater responsibility, higher earning potential, and more career advancement opportunities. However, being a registered nurse requires more education. Meanwhile, LPNs focus on basic patient care, have shorter training programs, and offer a quicker entry into nursing.

Where do LPNs typically work?

LPNs work in various settings, most commonly in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. They also find employment in hospitals, physician's offices, home health care, and sometimes in clinics, schools, and other community health settings.

Can LPN give injections?

Whether or not an LPN can give injections depends on the specific state's regulations and the type of injection. Generally, LPNs can administer certain types of injections, such as intramuscular (IM) and subcutaneous (SubQ) injections, but they may not be allowed to administer others, like intravenous (IV) injections. It's crucial to check the scope of practice for LPNs in the specific state where they are licensed.

Is being an LPN a stepping stone to becoming an RN?

Being an LPN can be a stepping stone to becoming an RN. Many LPNs choose to advance their careers by pursuing an RN degree. There are even specific LPN to RN bridge programs designed to make this transition smoother and faster, recognizing the prior education and experience of LPNs. These programs often allow LPNs to complete their RN requirements in less time than a traditional RN program.