When it comes to Texas, the old saying is that everything is bigger in the Lone Star state. That certainly applies to the job market, which is booming in Texas and cratering in other states. In fact, Texas has enjoyed an unequaled economic boom the past 10 years, and the demand for nurses just keeps growing. The Texas Workforce Commission estimates that the need for vocational nurses will increase by more than 26 percent through 2018, and becoming an LVN requires only one year of training, making entry into the job market very quick indeed.

Sometimes called licensed practical nurses in other states, licensed vocational nurses are a vital part of the nursing team that work under the supervision of registered nurses and are responsible for providing skilled patient care in hospitals, medical clinics, long term care facilities, senior living communities, and a wide variety of settings.

Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) participate in care planning, monitor patient’s vital signs, draw blood, chart, supervise patient care technicians and CNA’s, administer medications, give injections, and perform a variety of skilled nursing procedures.

So let’s explore what it would require for you to become an LVN in Texas:

The Texas Nursing Practice Act, part of the Texas Occupations Code, establishes the rules and regulation that govern the profession of nursing in the state. Under the law, all vocational nurses must obtain a professional license prior to working with patients. The Texas Board of Nursing issues these licenses in accordance with the requirements established in the laws.

Education Required To Become An LVN IN Texas

To qualify for licensing as a vocational nurse in Texas, candidates must complete a training program approved by the Board of Nursing. As of May 2011, the board had approved 95 LVN programs, most of which lasted around one year. Accredited LVN programs in Texas are offered at public community colleges, at degree-granting private colleges, at hospitals, and at private vocational schools. Programs usually culminate in a certificate or a diploma, and include both classroom coursework and clinical training. (explore Texas Nursing Schools)

Licensing Examination For Texas LVNs

After graduating from a state-approved training program, prospective LVNs must pass a test. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing develops the examination, which is called the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nursing. Candidates take the test using a computer at Pearson Vue Testing Centers. As of May 2011, Pearson had centers in Abilene, Austin, San Antonio, Waco, Hurst, Midland, Dallas, Lubbock, Houston, Tyler, Bellaire, Corpus Christi and Amarillo. The exam is multiple-choice and lasts for up to five hours.

Other Requirements

Prior to becoming an LVN in Texas, all candidates must pass a criminal background check. To begin the check, prospective LVNs must undergo professional fingerprinting at a state-approved L-1 Identity Solutions location or a local law enforcement office. Candidates with a history of criminal convictions may be ineligible for LVN licensure in Texas, depending on the nature of their crimes. In addition, candidates must fill out an application. Candidates can complete the application online or download it from the Texas Board of Nursing’s website, complete it and return it by mail. Payment of a fee is also necessary. As of May 2011, the amount of the fee was $139.

Licensure by Endorsement

LVNs who already have a license from another state as a vocational or practical nurse can qualify for a Texas license through the state’s endorsement program. Candidates must either be employed as LVNs or, if unemployed, have passed the NCLEX or the State Board Test Pool Examination within the previous four years. A criminal background check is necessary, and candidates must complete an online or downloaded application. They must also pay a fee, the amount of which was $200 as of May 2011. Candidates for LVN licensing by endorsement must also have the board that issued their out-of-state license send a confirmation to the Texas Board of Nursing.

Becoming an LVN in Texas is a smart way to begin a nursing career, get to work quickly, and enjoy a good income, great benefits, and unlimited career advancement potential. It’s also a smart way to start on the path to becoming an RN! Once you’re a working LVN you will become eligible to make use of employer paid tuition assistance programs and financial aid to earn your RN degree online through an online LPN/LVN to RN degree program and then in just 12 short months of online study while you work you can have an accredited Associate degree in Nursing (RN) or a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN). The sky’s the limit from then on since that will open the door to further educational opportunities that can lead to you becoming a Nurse Practitioner or whatever it is you would like to become in Nursing.

So you see, becoming an LVN opens the door to a world of opportunities! Why not explore accredited LPN programs and take the first step towards a great future?

Find LPN/LVN Schools & Practical Nursing/Vocational Nursing Programs Near You

Explore detailed listings of Practical Nursing schools to find the LPN/LVN program that best meets your needs. Get started today by selecting the nursing schools that interest you and fill out the brief information request form to speak directly with LPN/LVN program advisers. Explore LPN Programs By State

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