Vocational Nurses have to complete at least one year of education, which is designed to prepare them to deliver bedside care. As part of their additional training, Vocational Nurses are tasked with a larger scope of patient care, including starting IV lines and inserting catheters. Upon graduating, Vocational Nurses must take the NCLEX licensing exam in the state in which they hope to work. Once licensed, they must renew their license every two years. Medical Assistants, on the other hand, do not have to be certified to work in a physician’s office, although it is highly recommended and preferred by many employers. Once certified, MAs must re-certify every five years by taking the CMA exam.