Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are a part of Georgia’s healthcare landscape, providing direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. They perform a wide array of duties, from monitoring vital signs and administering medications to ensuring patient comfort. For those aspiring to join this profession within the state, the path is structured. It involves meeting personal and educational criteria, passing a national exam, and completing the state’s official licensing procedures. This guide outlines the steps required to earn an LPN license and build a career in Georgia.
Meet the Preliminary Requirements
Before beginning a nursing program, there are foundational prerequisites that must be met. The primary requirement is possessing a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. Additionally, applicants must meet a minimum age, which is 18 years old by the time of program completion or application for licensure.
Many Georgia technical colleges and other institutions with LPN programs have a competitive admission process. Prospective students may be required to pass a standardized entrance exam, such as the NLN Pre-Admission Exam (PAX-PN) or the HESI A2 exam, with a minimum score. Some programs also require prerequisite courses in subjects like Anatomy and Physiology, Basic Psychology, or English with a minimum grade of ‘C’ or better.
Complete a Georgia Approved LPN Program
Graduating from a practical nursing program approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing is a primary step toward licensure. This approval confirms the program meets the state’s standards for nursing education and is required for licensure eligibility. Aspiring LPNs can find a comprehensive list of all approved programs on the official Georgia Board of Nursing website.
These diploma programs take about 12 months or three to five semesters to complete. The curriculum is a blend of theoretical classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Students take courses in subjects such as pharmacology, maternity nursing, anatomy, and patient care fundamentals. This classroom knowledge is then applied during supervised clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities. Before beginning these clinicals, students must pass a background check, a drug screen, and provide proof of immunizations and CPR certification.
Pass the NCLEX-PN Examination
Upon graduation from a state-approved program, every candidate must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This national test determines if a graduate has the necessary skills to practice safely as an entry-level LPN. The exam focuses on applying clinical judgment to patient care scenarios, not on testing everything learned in nursing school.
The exam is administered by Pearson VUE. Candidates must register and pay the fee on the Pearson VUE website. After the Georgia Board of Nursing verifies educational completion, the candidate receives an Authorization to Test (ATT) via email. This ATT is required to schedule an exam at a designated Pearson VUE testing center.
Apply for Licensure with the Georgia Board of Nursing
While registering for the NCLEX-PN is a separate step, candidates must also complete a formal application for “Licensure by Examination” with the Georgia Board of Nursing. This process is done concurrently with exam registration and is managed through the Board’s online portal. The application requires completion of all forms, payment of an application fee, and submission of official transcripts sent directly from the nursing program to the Board.
A component of the state application is the requirement for a criminal background check. As mandated by state law, applicants must register with the Georgia Applicant Processing Service (GAPS) to have their fingerprints taken and processed. The application to the Board and the registration for the NCLEX-PN are two distinct but parallel requirements, both of which must be successfully completed to be issued a license.
Maintaining Your Georgia LPN License
To continue practicing legally in the state, LPNs must maintain their license with the Georgia Board of Nursing. This involves a biennial renewal process every two years by March 31st of odd-numbered years. The renewal is completed online and requires the payment of a renewal fee.
As part of this renewal, the Georgia Board of Nursing mandates that LPNs satisfy continuing competency requirements. The board provides several options for this. LPNs can choose to complete 20 hours of continuing education from an approved provider, document at least 500 hours of licensed practice within the two-year renewal period, or meet other specific criteria outlined by the board.
LPN Career Outlook in Georgia
The career outlook for LPNs in Georgia is strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job growth for LPNs, driven by the healthcare needs of an aging population and the prevalence of chronic conditions. This demand ensures a stable employment landscape across the state.
The average salary for LPNs in Georgia is competitive. LPNs find employment in diverse settings, including:
- Hospitals, assisting with patient care on various units
- Long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and assisted living centers
- Physicians’ offices
- Home healthcare services
- Rehabilitation centers