LVN Programs in California: Schools, Requirements & Salary (2026)
California LVN programs — known as Licensed Vocational Nurse programs rather than LPN — train the largest practical nursing workforce in the United States. With approximately 72,980 LVNs employed and a median salary of $67,010, California leads the nation in both employment and pay for practical nurses. LVN schools in California range from affordable community colleges to private vocational institutions, with programs available in every major metro area from Los Angeles to the Bay Area. The Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) oversees all LVN education and licensure. If you’re searching for LVN classes in California, know that the state’s clinical hour requirements are among the strictest in the country, producing well-prepared graduates with strong NCLEX pass rates.
LVN Salary in California
The median annual salary for LVNs in California is $67,010, which is $7,280 above the national median of $59,730. The state employs approximately 72,980 LVNs, with projected job growth of 5% through 2032.
Top-Paying Cities in California
| City | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| San Francisco | $74,130 |
| San Jose | $76,830 |
| Sacramento | $68,750 |
| Los Angeles | $68,520 |
| San Diego | $66,800 |
For detailed salary percentiles and metro-area data, see our complete LPN salary guide.
How to Become an LVN in California
To practice as an LVN in California, you must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Here's the process:
Complete prerequisites
High school diploma or GED, CPR/BLS certification, passing TEAS or HESI entrance exam score, background check, and current immunizations.
Enroll in an approved LVN program
Choose a program approved by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. California requires a minimum of 954 supervised clinical hours for LVN programs, among the highest in the nation. Programs must be approved by the BVNPT.
Complete coursework and clinical rotations
Programs cover nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, anatomy, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health. Clinical rotations take place at hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics across California.
Pass the NCLEX-PN
After graduating, register with the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to earn your LVN license.
Apply for California licensure
Submit your license application through the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks. Many California employers hire pending license verification.
Top LVN Programs in California
The following accredited programs are among the most established LVN schools in California:
| School | City | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Trade-Technical College | Los Angeles | 14 months | In-person |
| Mt. San Jacinto College | San Jacinto | 12 months | In-person |
| San Joaquin Valley College | Multiple locations | 13 months | In-person |
| Concorde Career College | San Diego / Garden Grove | 13 months | In-person |
| Merced College | Merced | 12 months | In-person |
Program details are subject to change. Verify current offerings directly with each school.
Browse LVN programs in all 50 states
Career Pathways for California LVNs
Your LVN license in California opens several advancement routes:
MA to LVN
Already a medical assistant? Bridge programs can fast-track your LVN in 6–12 months.
CNA to LVN
CNAs can earn advanced standing and complete LVN programs faster.
LVN to RN
Advance to Registered Nurse and boost your salary to $86K+ median.
LVN to BSN
Earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing for the widest career options.
Exploring options in nearby states? Check out LVN programs in Nevada, Arizona, and Oregon.
Frequently Asked Questions: LVN Programs in California
How much do LVNs make in California?
The median LVN salary in California is $67,010 per year — the highest in the nation. In the San Jose metro area, LVNs earn a median of $76,830. San Francisco ($74,130), Sacramento ($68,750), and Los Angeles ($68,520) are also among the top-paying metros. However, California's high cost of living offsets some of that advantage.
How long does it take to become an LVN in California?
Most California LVN programs take 12 to 14 months to complete. California requires more clinical hours than many states (a minimum of 954 hours), which can extend program length. After graduating, you must pass the NCLEX-PN and apply for licensure through the BVNPT.
What are the best LVN programs in California?
Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, Mt. San Jacinto College, and Merced College are well-regarded public options with competitive tuition. San Joaquin Valley College and Concorde Career College offer programs across multiple California locations. All must be approved by the BVNPT.
Does California have online LVN programs?
Some California LVN programs offer hybrid formats with online didactic coursework, but clinical rotations must always be completed in person. Fully online LVN programs are not approved by the BVNPT. Given the state's high clinical hour requirement (954 hours), a significant portion of any program will be in person.
What does the BVNPT require for LVN licensure?
The Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians requires completion of an approved vocational nursing program, a passing NCLEX-PN score, fingerprinting and background check, and a completed application with fees. California does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, so a California-specific license is required.
Find LVN Programs in California
Compare accredited LVN programs near you. Search by location, schedule, and cost to find the right fit.
Last updated: 2026-03-03. Salary data: BLS May 2024 OES, SOC 29-2061.