RN NLC Compact State

North Carolina RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in North Carolina

Processing Time

2-4 weeks

Total Initial Cost

$325

Renewal Period

2 years

CE Hours Required

15 hours

Official source: licensing in North Carolina is administered by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in North Carolina.

Apply on Official Site

1 Education Requirements

Program Requirements

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Additional Requirements

Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
Foreign-educated nurses must meet CGFNS requirements

Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program

2 NCLEX-RN Examination

Exam Name

NCLEX-RN

Administered By

Pearson VUE

Exam Fee

$200

Tip: Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.

Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.

3 Background Check

Live Scan for NC residents; fingerprint cards for out-of-state

FBI and North Carolina SBI background check

Live Scan for NC residents

Fingerprint cards for out-of-state applicants

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$75
Examination Fee	$200
Fingerprinting	$50
Total	$325

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$100

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Required Topics

- General Nursing CE: 15 hours

Career Advancement

Many RNs advance their careers by pursuing advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

Explore NP Licensure APRN Career Guide

North Carolina RN License FAQs

How much does an RN license cost in North Carolina?

Expect about $325 in total initial RN license costs in North Carolina, including a $75 application fee and a $200 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

How many CE hours do RNs need to renew in North Carolina?

North Carolina RNs must complete 15 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $100.

Is North Carolina a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state?

Yes. North Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so eligible nurses with a multistate license can practice in North Carolina and every other NLC state without extra licenses.

How long does it take to get an RN license in North Carolina?

Most complete applications are processed in about 2 to 4 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues RN licenses in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Board of Nursing handles RN license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (919) 782-3211.