Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program
The first step toward obtaining a nursing license is to complete an accredited nursing education program. The program you choose depends on the type of nursing career you want to pursue:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Requires a diploma or certificate, typically completed in 12–18 months.
- Registered Nurse (RN): A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is required to work as a registered nurse (RN). A BSN typically takes four years to complete, while an ADN takes around two years.
Ensure that the program is accredited by the appropriate nursing accreditation bodies, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).