Top 11 LVN Certifications

Certifications are an important way for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the job market. Certifications provide evidence of a nurse’s competency and can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. In addition, certifications can give LVNs access to exclusive job opportunities that may not be available without them. They can also qualify nurses for higher pay and better benefits. Lastly, certifications show employers a commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date on industry standards.

This article reviews the most beneficial certifications for LVNs and explains how they can help to advance an LVN's career.

What are LVN Certifications?

LVN certification stands for Licensed Vocational Nurse certification. It is a license that is obtained through the completion of a vocational nursing program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) exam. This certification allows individuals to practice as a licensed vocational nurse in their state.

A LVN certification can help an individual pursue a career as a licensed vocational nurse, which provides opportunities to work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private medical offices. LVNs are responsible for providing basic patient care such as taking vital signs, administering medications, monitoring patients' conditions, providing personal care services like bathing and dressing, and educating patients about their health and medical treatments. With this certification, individuals have the opportunity to expand their career options by taking on additional roles such as case management or home health aide positions.

The LVN certification also offers continuing education courses that can be used to advance one's knowledge base and gain experience in specialized areas of healthcare. This allows individuals to become more knowledgeable about specific treatments or technologies that may be used in their field of work. Additionally, some employers may require employees to have certain certifications in order to be considered for employment or advancement opportunities. By obtaining a LVN license, individuals will have the necessary qualifications needed to apply for these jobs.

Pro Tip: When considering LVN certification, it is important to research the requirements for licensure in your state. Each state has different requirements for licensure and certification, and it is important to ensure that you meet all of the necessary criteria before beginning a program. Additionally, make sure to look into any additional certifications or continuing education courses you may need to stay up-to-date on best practices in the field.

Related: What does an LVN do?

Top 11 LVN Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to LVNs today.

1. Certified Licensed Vocational Nurse (CLVN)

A Certified Licensed Vocational Nurse (CLVN) is a licensed nurse who has completed a vocational nursing program and passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). CLVNs are responsible for providing basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. They may take vital signs, administer medications, provide wound care, assist with personal hygiene tasks, and observe and report changes in patient condition.

The length of time it takes to become a CLVN depends on the individual's educational background. Generally, it takes approximately one year to complete an accredited vocational nursing program. After completing the program, individuals must pass the NCLEX-PN exam in order to become licensed as a CLVN.

To become certified as a CLVN, individuals must first complete an accredited vocational nursing program and then pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Once they have passed the exam, they can apply for licensure through their state board of nursing.

The cost of becoming certified as a CLVN varies depending on several factors such as the length of time spent in school, cost of tuition and fees associated with taking the NCLEX-PN exam. The cost typically ranges from $2,000-$5,000 USD.

2. Certified Practical Nurse (CPN)

A Certified Practical Nurse (CPN) is a licensed nurse who has achieved a higher level of education and training than a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). CPNs are qualified to provide direct care to patients, including administering medications and performing basic medical procedures. They may also be responsible for monitoring vital signs, providing patient education, and assisting with diagnostic tests.

It typically takes two years of full-time study to become a CPN. Most programs require students to complete courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, psychology, and other related topics. In addition to classroom instruction, students must also complete clinical rotations in order to gain hands-on experience in the field.

In order to become a CPN, individuals must first obtain their LPN license. After completing their program of study and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), they can then apply for certification through the American Association of Practical Nursing (AAPN). The AAPN requires applicants to submit proof of licensure as well as transcripts from their educational program.

The cost of becoming a CPN varies depending on the individual's educational program and state requirements. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $3,000-$15,000 per year while application fees for certification range from $50-$150.

3. Certified Medical-Surgical Licensed Vocational Nurse (CMSLVN)

A Certified Medical-Surgical Licensed Vocational Nurse (CMSLVN) is a healthcare professional who has completed specialized training and certification to provide direct care to patients in medical-surgical settings. CMSLVNs are licensed nurses who have additional knowledge and skills related to the care of medical-surgical patients, including those with chronic illnesses or complex conditions.

To become a CMSLVN, you must first complete an accredited vocational nursing program. This typically takes one year to complete and includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. After completing the program, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Once you've passed this exam, you can apply for licensure as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in your state.

Once you have obtained your LVN license, you can then pursue certification as a CMSLVN through the American Board of Nursing Specialties (ABNS). To be eligible for certification, you must have at least two years of experience working as an LVN in a medical-surgical setting, as well as demonstrate competency in certain areas such as patient assessment, medication administration, and wound care. You will also need to pass an exam administered by ABNS.

The cost of becoming a CMSLVN varies depending on factors such as tuition costs for the vocational nursing program, fees associated with taking the NCLEX-PN exam, and any fees associated with obtaining licensure or certification. Generally speaking, it could cost anywhere from $2,000 - $5,000 or more to become certified.

4. Certified Dialysis Licensed Vocational Nurse (CDLVN)

A Certified Dialysis Licensed Vocational Nurse (CDLVN) is a credential that is awarded to Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) who have completed specialized training and education in the field of dialysis. This certification allows LVNs to provide care for patients with chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, or those receiving hemodialysis treatments.

To become a CDLVN, an LVN must complete an approved program in dialysis nursing, which typically takes about one year to complete. After completing the program, the LVN must pass a certification exam administered by either the National Nephrology Certification Organization (NNCO) or the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT).

The cost of becoming a CDLVN varies depending on the state in which you live and where you take your certification exam. In some states, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200 - $400 to become certified as a CDLVN.

5. Certified Gerontological Licensed Vocational Nurse (CGLVN)

Certified Gerontological Licensed Vocational Nurse (CGLVN) is a specialized certification for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) who work with elderly patients. The certification requires additional training and education in gerontology, which is the study of aging and its effects on people. CGLVN certification is offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

The CGLVN certification process includes completing an approved course in gerontology, passing an exam, and having current licensure as an LVN. Depending on the course taken, it can take anywhere from three to six months to complete the required training. Courses are typically offered online or through local community colleges or universities.

In order to be eligible for CGLVN certification, applicants must have at least one year of experience working as an LVN with elderly patients. Applicants must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as geriatric pharmacology, infection control, nutrition, pain management, communication skills, and ethical considerations related to caring for elderly patients.

The cost of obtaining CGLVN certification varies depending on the course taken. Most courses range from $500-$1000. In addition to the cost of the course itself, there may also be fees associated with taking the exam and applying for certification.

6. Advanced Practice Licensed Vocational Nurse (APLVN)

Advanced Practice Licensed Vocational Nurse (APLVN) is a type of nurse who has completed additional education and training beyond the basic Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) program. APLVNs are qualified to provide advanced nursing care, including administering medications, performing physical assessments, and providing patient education.

In order to become an APLVN in the United States, applicants must complete a state-approved LVN program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). After completing these requirements, applicants must then complete an approved APLVN program that includes additional coursework and clinical experience. The length of the APLVN program varies depending on the specific school or institution offering it; typically it takes between 12-18 months to complete.

The cost of the APLVN program also varies by school or institution; however, most programs cost between $5,000-$10,000. In addition to tuition costs, students may also be responsible for other fees such as textbooks and supplies.

Once an applicant has successfully completed their APLVN program and passed the NCLEX-PN exam they will be eligible to apply for licensure with their state board of nursing. Each state has its own licensing requirements; therefore applicants should check with their individual state board of nursing for specific details on how to obtain licensure.

7. Certified Ambulatory Care Licensed Vocational Nurse (CACLVN)

Certified Ambulatory Care Licensed Vocational Nurse (CACLVN) is a certification for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) who specialize in providing care to patients in an ambulatory setting. This certification is offered through the National Board for Certification of Ambulatory Care Nursing (NBCACN).

The CACLVN certification requires LVNs to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of patient assessment, medication administration, health promotion, and disease prevention. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover all aspects of ambulatory care nursing.

In order to be eligible to take the CACLVN exam, LVNs must have a valid license from their state’s Board of Nursing and at least two years of experience as an LVN in an ambulatory care setting. They must also complete a minimum number of continuing education hours related to ambulatory care nursing within the past two years.

The CACLVN exam takes approximately three hours to complete. It costs $250 for members of NBCACN and $300 for non-members. After passing the exam, LVNs will receive their CACLVN certificate from NBCACN and will be able to use the credential after their name on resumes and other professional documents.

8. Certified Home Health Aide/Licensed Vocational Nurse (CHHA/LVN)

A Certified Home Health Aide/Licensed Vocational Nurse (CHHA/LVN) is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care and assistance to patients in their home or other residential settings. CHHAs/LVNs are responsible for providing direct patient care, such as bathing, dressing, and taking vital signs. They also provide emotional support and education to patients and family members.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to become a CHHA/LVN. The requirements vary by state but generally include completion of an accredited program, passing a licensing exam, and meeting any additional state requirements. Some states may also require continuing education courses or additional certifications.

To become a CHHA/LVN, you must first complete an accredited program that meets the standards set by your state's Board of Nursing. These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, or online institutions. After completing the program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Once you have passed this exam, you will need to meet any additional state requirements before becoming licensed as a CHHA/LVN.

The cost of becoming a CHHA/LVN varies depending on the program chosen and the state in which it is located. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000 - $5,000 for most programs. Additionally, there may be fees associated with taking the NCLEX exam and any other required exams or certifications that are needed for licensure in your state.

9. Certified Long-Term Care Licensed Vocational Nurse (CLTCLVN)

Certified Long-Term Care Licensed Vocational Nurse (CLTCLVN) is a certification that recognizes the specialized skills and knowledge of licensed vocational nurses who provide care for individuals with chronic or long-term health needs. This certification is offered through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

To become certified as a CLTCLVN, an individual must be currently licensed as a vocational nurse in their state, have at least two years of full-time experience in providing direct patient care in long-term care settings, and successfully complete an approved CLTCLVN program. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.

The cost to become certified as a CLTCLVN varies depending on the program chosen. Generally, the cost includes tuition fees for the coursework, textbooks, and any other materials needed for the program. Additionally, some programs may also require students to pay for additional fees such as exam fees or registration fees.

The amount of time it takes to become certified as a CLTCLVN depends on the individual’s current level of education and experience. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all requirements necessary for certification.

10. Certified Emergency Room Licensed Vocational Nurse (CERLVN)

A Certified Emergency Room Licensed Vocational Nurse (CERLVN) is a specialized nursing professional who has completed additional training and certification in order to provide care in an emergency room setting. CERLVNs are responsible for providing direct patient care, monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and helping with diagnostic tests.

The process of becoming a CERLVN typically takes between six months and one year. The first step is to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). This requires completing an accredited LVN program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). After obtaining licensure as an LVN, the next step is to complete an approved CERLVN program. These programs can be found at community colleges or technical schools, and typically take between three months and one year to complete.

Once the CERLVN program has been completed, the student must pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing’s Certified Emergency Room Licensed Vocational Nurse Exam (NCSBN CERLVNE) in order to become certified.

The cost of becoming a CERLVN varies depending on the individual’s situation, but can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Costs may include tuition for the LVN program and/or CERLVN program, exam fees, textbooks, study materials, etc.

11. Certified Maternal and Child Health Licensed Vocational Nurse (CMCHLVN).

A Certified Maternal and Child Health Licensed Vocational Nurse (CMCHLVN) is a type of nurse who specializes in providing care to mothers and children. This certification requires specialized training and knowledge in areas such as maternal health, child health, family planning, nutrition, breastfeeding, mental health, and substance abuse.

The certification process for CMCHLVNs typically takes between six months to a year to complete. The first step is to obtain licensure as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) from the state Board of Nursing. After obtaining LVN licensure, individuals must then complete additional coursework from an accredited program in maternal and child health nursing. Once the coursework has been completed, applicants must pass an exam administered by the National Certification Corporation (NCC) to become certified as a CMCHLVN.

The cost of becoming a CMCHLVN varies depending on the program chosen. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000-$4,000 for accredited programs. In addition to tuition fees, there are also fees associated with taking the NCC exam which range from $200-$400 depending on the state in which you are located.

Once certified as a CMCHLVN, nurses can work in hospitals or clinics providing care to pregnant women and their children or they may provide home visits for families in need of additional support services. They may also work with community organizations that provide resources for families dealing with poverty or other social issues.

Do You Really Need a LVN Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what you’re looking to achieve in your career. If you’re looking to work as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), then the answer is definitely yes – you need an LVN certificate. An LVN certificate shows that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality patient care as an LVN.

However, if you’re looking for an entry-level position in a related field, such as nursing assistant or medical assistant, then a certificate may not be necessary. There are many jobs available in related fields that don't require certification or licensure, so it's important to do your research and find out what qualifications employers are looking for before committing to a course of study.

In addition, there are other healthcare roles that don't necessarily require an LVN certificate but benefit from having one. For example, some hospitals and clinics prefer to hire individuals with LVN certificates for certain positions because they demonstrate an understanding of healthcare procedures and protocols. This can help make them more marketable candidates when applying for those positions.

Overall, the decision whether or not to pursue an LVN certificate should be based on your individual goals and aspirations within the healthcare field. If becoming an LVN is something that interests you, then obtaining a certificate is essential; however, if you're interested in another role within the healthcare industry then it may not be necessary.

Related: LVN Resume Examples

FAQs About LVN Certifications

1. What is an LVN Certification?

Answer: An LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual has completed the necessary educational and clinical requirements to become a licensed vocational nurse in their state.

2. How long does it take to get an LVN certification?

Answer: It typically takes one to two years of full-time study and clinical experience to complete the required courses and obtain an LVN certification.

3. What are the prerequisites for obtaining an LVN certification?

Answer: The prerequisites for obtaining an LVN certification vary by state, but generally include completing a state-approved nursing program, passing the NCLEX-PN examination, and meeting any additional requirements set forth by your state’s board of nursing.

4. Is there a continuing education requirement for maintaining my LVN certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require that you complete a minimum number of hours of continuing education every year or two in order to maintain your license. Check with your state's board of nursing for specific requirements.

5. Are there any online programs available for earning my LVN certification?

Answer: Yes, there are several accredited online programs available that offer both classroom instruction and clinical experiences necessary to become certified as an LVN.