Locate an approved National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. (NLNAC) LVN-to-RN program. You can search for institutions within your state through this site, http://nlnac.org/Forms/directory_search.htm.
Apply to an LVN-to-RN program. You must provide documentation of your educational background and hospital experience. Courses for completion of an RN degree can take one to two years full time. Figure out if you wish to take classes at a physical campus or on line. Normally, the first-year nursing course is waived for LVN students. You will be taking courses in anatomy and physiology, acute care nursing and microbiology, as well as the fundamentals of nursing.
Register to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). You can test upon completion of your program. Passing this exam is required to become a registered nurse. You can acquire your application through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), https://www.ncsbn.org/1202.htm.
You must submit your application to the board of nursing where you wish to be licensed. As of 2010, the fee for the examination is $200. It is a computer-based exam with 265 questions and a maximum of six hours to test. You are assessed on management of care, safety and infection care and reduction of risk potential.