After completing your Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, the most common and logical next step in the nursing career ladder is Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) (the title LVN is used in California and Texas; everywhere else it’s LPN).
Key differences and progression:
- CNA: 4–12 weeks of training, state certification exam, works under RN/LPN supervision, focuses on basic patient care (bathing, feeding, vital signs, etc.).
- LPN/LVN: 12–18 months of education (usually at a community college or vocational school), must pass the NCLEX-PN national licensing exam, can administer medications, start IVs, create basic care plans, and supervise CNAs.
Why LPN/LVN is the typical “next step”:
- Many LPN programs give credit for CNA experience or even require CNA certification as a prerequisite.
- It significantly increases earning potential (average U.S. LPN salary ≈ $55,000–$62,000 vs. CNA ≈ $35,000–$42,000 in 2025).
- It opens doors to more responsibility and better shifts.
Other possible next certifications (less common paths):
- Certified Medication Aide (CMA) – Allowed in some states; lets CNAs pass certain medications after extra training (40–100 hours).
- Patient Care Technician (PCT) – Adds phlebotomy, EKG, etc., to CNA skills.
- Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) – Specialized for home care.
The step after LPN:
Most LPNs who want to advance further go on to become Registered Nurses (RN) through an LPN-to-RN bridge program (usually 1–2 years) and take the NCLEX-RN.
In summary: For the vast majority of CNAs who want career growth and higher pay, the clear next certification is LPN/LVN via an accredited practical nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN.