MyCLPNA
What Is a Provisional Permit?
In order to work or accept employment as an LPN in Alberta, an individual must have a valid practice permit from the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA). Active and provisional permits are both considered valid.
A provisional permit is only valid for up to one year. Having a provisional permit means that LPNs who have completed their education can begin to build on their nursing competencies.
View our policy on Provisional Registration:
Who Can Hold a Provisional Permit?
An applicant to the CLPNA who is a new graduate or an internationally educated nurse can apply for a provisional permit.
To obtain a provisional permit, an LPN must have met all of their registration requirements except for passing the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE).
Applicants must have a provisional permit before they can begin working as an Alberta LPN. Anyone can look up an individual to determine if they have their permit.
Access the CLPNA Public Registry
Provisional Permit Holders Practice Under Supervision
An LPN with a provisional permit must always practice under the supervision of a regulated healthcare professional who has the authorization and competence to supervise.
Depending on the activity, supervision can be one of the following:
- Direct supervision: a supervisor is physically present at the point of care.
- Indirect supervision: a supervisor is readily available on site to provide consultation or assistance but is not present at the point of care.
- Indirect, remote supervision: a supervisor is available and can easily be contacted through technology but is not physically present.
In addition, provisional permit holders cannot be responsible for assigning or supervising care.
How Can Provisional Permit Holders Obtain Active Status?
If someone holds a provisional permit, they must successfully pass the CPNRE in three attempts to receive an active practice permit. Upon successful completion of the CPNRE, their permit will automatically be changed to an active practice permit.
If you have questions about provisional registration, supervision, or a related topic, please contact us.