To become a nurse, every state and the District of Columbia require students to complete a nursing education program and pass the NCLEX licensing exam. There are, however, several levels of education and different licensing requirements for nurses.

Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse:

Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses (LPNs and LVNs, respectively) must complete a state-approved practical nursing education program and pass the NCLEX-PN examination for licensure. Practical nursing programs are generally offered at vocational schools and community colleges and offer graduates a diploma in nursing. Such programs typically last about one year.

Registered Nurse:

To become a registered nurse (RN), one must complete an approved program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. RNs can earn an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN). Diploma programs are also available through hospitals, though only 69 programs were available as of 2004.

RNs with a diploma or associate's degree often pursue a bachelor's degree through an RN-to-BSN completion program. 600 such programs were offered in 2004, and some programs are even available online.

An RN with a bachelor's degree can go on to graduate education in pursuit of a master of science in nursing (MSN) or even a Ph.D. in nursing. Some schools offer accelerated master degree programs and RN-to-MSN completion programs.

Continuing Education Requirements

Once a nurse is licensed and working, licenses must be renewed. The Florida Department of Health, for example, requires all LPNs and RNs to renew their license every two years and complete 25 hours of continuing education each renewal period. Continuing education and license renewal requirements vary by state, so all nurses should be sure to familiarize themselves with the requirements of the state in which they work.