Can You Bridge LPN to RN? Discover the Fast-Track Options That Work

What if your LPN was just a first step and not a hard ceiling for your nursing career? What if there was a faster, smarter way to earn your RN? Earning an RN has never been easier with accessible fast-track options that work on your terms and within budget. From higher salaries and greater leadership roles to the more specialization opportunities, bridging an LPN to RN could be your gateway to an enhanced quality career and life. 

And the best part? You don’t have to start from scratch – whether you’re looking into an ADN or BSN program, accelerated options like Achieve Test Prep can get you there sooner. In this guide, we’ll answer how you can bridge LPN to RN, compare the three RN bridge pathways and help you discover which program works best for your goals and schedule. 

With its flexible, expert-led online program options, consider Achieve Test Prep for fast-tracking your LPN to RN bridge on your own terms.  

Why LPNs Are Bridging to RN Now More Than Ever

The demand for RNs is projected to grow by 6% by 2033, faster than most US careers. Given this climb, LPNs are in a great position to take advantage. Here’s a breakdown of why that’s a smart decision now:

The RN Job Market in 2025: Demand, Salary, Scope & Flexibility

Because RNs are among the most in-demand professionals nationally, staff shortages in the healthcare industry are common. Also, RNs command an average salary of $98,430 nationwide, considerably higher than the $62,340 average salary for LPNs. 

Also, the expanded scope of practice beyond the essential hands-on care for LPNs opens the door to greater specialization and leadership opportunities. Additionally, many RNs enjoy more flexible work hours, like options such as schedule flexibility, part-time work and per diem or remote opportunities. In sum, the job outlook stands strong for RNs in the coming years.  

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Bridge

Bridge programs are built for busy working adults to accelerate their educational nursing pathway. They are also more affordable with many online options. You can test out of general education and prerequisite courses, avoid waitlists and even go at your own pace through the coursework. 

For example, with Achieve Test Prep, you can make a smart investment in fast-tracking your nursing education and pass credit by exam tests with confidence on the first try. 

Pathway 1 – LPN to ADN: The Quicker Bridge Option

For LPNs looking for the quickest possible entry to becoming an RN, the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is your best, most cost-effective bet. Many programs can be completed in 12-18 months and have busy, working LPNs in mind. 

Timeline, Curriculum, and Requirements

LPN to ADN programs commonly cover core nursing curriculum along with clinical rotations. Subjects include pharmacology, patient care and anatomy. Most programs require an LPN license, a minimum GPA and completion of general education coursework. Offering flexible schedules designed for working LPNs, many programs offer online options as well.  

A Practical Route to RN Licensure

After graduating from your ADN program, nurses must pass the Next Gen NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure exam for RNs. As mentioned, if you’re not looking for a 4-year commitment, the LPN to ADN program is your fastest pathway to becoming an RN.

Pathway 2 – LPN to BSN: A Bachelor Bridge with Bigger Payoffs

For those seeking greater career opportunities and increased job security, an LPN to BSN program might be just right for you. This path gives you a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) that opens greater healthcare doors for your career.

Who Should Choose This Path?

A LPN to BSN bridge prepares you for specialization opportunities, more leadership roles and the option to undertake a graduate education in the future. If you’re interested in specializing in pediatrics, public health or nursing education, then becoming a BSN-prepared nurse is your best choice. 

Typically requiring 3-5 years to complete, the payoff makes it worthwhile. Another substantial reason to go for a BSN bridge program is that hospitals are mainly hiring BSN-prepared RNs – this could have an impact if that’s where you want to work in your career. 

Benefits for Long-Term Career Growth

LPNs who have made the choice to become BSNs enjoy faster promotions and are preferred in many healthcare settings. Commanding a higher salary and qualifying for administrative and research roles, BSN-prepared RNs find greater job stability and satisfaction. In this way, you can better future-proof your career.

Pathway 3 – Credit-by-Exam: Fast-Track Your RN Bridge with Achieve Test Prep

If you’re a working LPN managing work, family and life responsibilities, earning an RN degree may feel out of reach. That’s where Achieve comes in. Achieve puts fast-tracking your LPN to RN or LPN to BSN bridge within reach with its smart, affordable credit-by-exam solutions. With Achieve, you can test out of general education or prerequisite courses and spare yourself the burnout or the massive college tuition costs. This path is perfect for busy LPNs who need the structure, support, flexibility and affordability that Achieve provides. 

Here’s why so many nurses love Achieve:

• Live, Online Instruction and 1:1 Mentorship From Expert Instructors
• No Waitlists, No Wasted Time
• Compatible with both ADN and BSN Programs Depending on Your Goals
• Evening and Weekend Classes for Maximum Flexibility
• Affordable Cost, With Flexible Payment Options 

Achieve’s LPN to RN and LPN to BSN programs are designed with you in mind – fast, affordable and supportive, they make earning your RN easy. 

Bonus – Finding the Right Path: Match Your Goals With the Right Bridge

Choosing the right LPN to RN bridge program for you depends on aligning with your long-term goals, budget and time considerations. If you’re looking for the quickest onboarding to your RN career, then an LPN to ADN track might be your best option. However if you’re wanting to go after better career options and long-term payoff, becoming a BSN-prepared nurse could be right for you. 

Whatever your choice, Achieve has LPN to RN and LPN to BSN bridge pathways that fit your schedule and budget – providing you the fastest track to your career goals. Build your nursing career dreams better and sooner with Achieve Test Prep. 

Ready to Fast-Track Your RN Journey with Achieve?

Why wait four years to become an RN? With Achieve, you can achieve your RN dreams faster and more affordably – and on your own terms. We give you the flexibility, structured support and the tools you need to bridge your LPN to RN sooner. With our live, expert-led instruction and credit-by-exam test prep, your RN dreams are within reach. Contact us today to fast-track your RN journey!