LPNs and LVNs are NOT registered nurses. They often work under the supervision of RNs, as well as physicians and APRNs. They are qualified through LVN/LPH certificate programs and by passing the NCLEX-PN exam. Only a handful of states offer LPN and LVN licenses, and though the scope of practice varies from state to state, it is always far more restrictive that the scope of practice for RNs.