How to Become an LPN

Creating a strong, professional resume is one of the most important steps in landing your first job as a licensed practical nurse. A well-crafted resume not only highlights your qualifications but also sets the tone for how potential employers perceive your professionalism and attention to detail.

Start with clear contact information at the top of your resume, including your full name, phone number, professional email address, and current city and state. Avoid using casual email addresses—stick to something simple and professional.

Your objective or summary should be a brief 1–2 sentence statement that communicates your goals and value as an LPN. Tailor it to the role you’re applying for. For example: “Compassionate and dedicated newly licensed LPN seeking to provide high-quality patient care in a long-term care setting.”

List your education credentials, including the name of your LPN or LVN program, the institution, and your graduation date. If you earned honors or awards during your studies, include them here.

Your clinical experience and any previous healthcare work experience should follow. Detail your clinical rotations, the types of facilities where you trained, and the specific skills or procedures you performed (e.g., wound care, vital signs, charting). Use bullet points and start each one with action verbs like “Assisted,” “Monitored,” or “Documented.”

You may also choose to include optional sections, such as certifications (CPR, IV Therapy), language skills, or relevant volunteer work. These extras can make you stand out from other applicants.

Stick to basic resume formatting: one page, clean fonts, and consistent spacing. Save your resume as a PDF when submitting online to preserve formatting across devices.

When it comes to applying, understand the difference between online and paper applications. Most healthcare employers now use digital portals, which may require you to enter your resume information manually in addition to uploading a file. Be prepared with all necessary documents, including your resume, cover letter, license number, and reference contacts.

Finally, learn how to complete job applications effectively. Follow all instructions closely, double-check for typos, and customize your materials for each position. Taking the extra time to tailor your resume and application for specific job descriptions shows initiative and can help you stand out.

LPN interview tips with questions and answers
Preparing for your LPN interview is just as important as writing a great resume. Whether you’re a new graduate or returning to the workforce, a successful interview can make all the difference. Knowing what to expect and how to respond will help you stand out with confidence and professionalism.

Dress for success: First impressions matter. Wear clean, professional attire appropriate for a healthcare setting. Avoid overly casual or flashy clothing and keep accessories minimal. A polished appearance communicates that you take the role seriously.

Time your arrival: Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early. Showing up on time demonstrates responsibility and reliability—qualities every healthcare employer values in an LPN.

Do your homework: Research the employer beforehand. Learn about the facility’s values, patient population, and services offered. Be prepared to explain why you want to work there specifically, and how your skills align with their needs.

Expect the unexpected: You may encounter situational or behavioral questions like, “Tell me about a time you handled a difficult patient,” or “How do you manage stress during a busy shift?” Practice answering these calmly and clearly, using real-life examples from school or clinical experience.

10 common LPN interview questions and sample responses:

1. Why did you choose to become an LPN?
2. Tell me about your clinical experience.
3. How do you handle challenging patients or families?
4. What are your strengths as a nurse?
5. What would you do if you disagreed with a supervisor?
6. How do you stay organized during a busy shift?
7. How do you handle mistakes on the job?
8. What would your instructors or previous employers say about you?
9. Describe a time you worked as part of a team.
10. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Prepare answers ahead of time using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to give structured, thoughtful responses.

Questions you should ask during an interview:


Always come prepared with a few of your own questions. These might include:

• What is the nurse-to-patient ratio?
• What kind of orientation or training do new LPNs receive?
• What are opportunities for continued education or advancement?

Asking insightful questions shows initiative and interest in the role.

Questions you should avoid asking:


Steer clear of asking about pay or benefits too early in the process unless the employer brings it up. Also avoid questions that could easily be answered by reading the job posting or website.

Practice makes perfect: Rehearse your answers with a friend, career advisor, or in front of a mirror. The more you practice, the more confident and natural you’ll sound during the real interview.

Always say thank you: Follow up after your interview with a polite thank-you email or handwritten note. Express appreciation for their time and reiterate your interest in the position.