A Guide to Nursing Licenses and Renewals in North Carolina

🩺 Obtaining a North Carolina Nursing License by Examination

Step 1: Complete an Accredited Nursing Program

Begin by earning a degree from an accredited nursing program, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Ensure your program meets the standards set by the North Carolina Board of Nursing (NCBON).Research.comResearch.com

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Create an account on the Nurse Gateway to apply for licensure. The application fee is $75. Your nursing program will need to verify your education directly with the NCBON.

Step 3: Register for the NCLEX

Register for the NCLEX-RN exam through Pearson VUE and pay the $200 fee. Schedule your exam at an approved testing center.

Step 4: Complete a Criminal Background Check

Undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check. North Carolina residents can use Live Scan services, while out-of-state applicants should submit fingerprint cards. The processing fee is $38.NCBON+2NCCU Online+2NCBON+2

Step 5: Obtain Your License

Upon passing the NCLEX, your license will be issued and can be verified through the NCBON website. If you do not pass, you may retake the exam after 45 days, with no limit on the number of attempts within three years.NCBON+1Research.com+1

🔄 Licensure by Endorsement (For Nurses Licensed in Other States)

Eligibility Criteria:

• Hold an active, unencumbered license in another state.
• Submit verification of your original license through NURSYS or directly from the state board if not a NURSYS participant.
• Complete a criminal background check as outlined above.

Application Process:

Apply via the Nurse Gateway and pay the $150 endorsement fee. Temporary licenses valid for six months may be issued while your application is processed.

🔁 Renewing Your North Carolina Nursing License

Renewal Timeline:

Licenses must be renewed every two years, expiring on the last day of your birth month. Renewal can be completed through the Nurse Gateway.

Continuing Competence Requirements:

To renew, you must fulfill one of the following:

• 30 contact hours of continuing education.
• 15 contact hours plus 640 hours of active practice.
• National certification or re-certification.
• Completion of a Board-approved refresher course.
• Two semester hours of post-licensure academic education.
• 15 contact hours and completion of a nursing project.
• 15 contact hours and authoring a nursing-related publication.
• 15 contact hours and developing and conducting a nursing education presentation totaling five contact hours.

Documentation of these activities should be retained in case of an audit.

💰 Licensing Fees (Effective October 1, 2025)

• Application for Examination: $150
• Endorsement Application: $300
• License Renewal: $200
• Criminal Background Check: $38

Note: These fees are subject to change. Always verify current fees on the NCBON Fee Schedule.

📞 Contact Information

North Carolina Board of Nursing

• Phone: (919) 782-3211
• Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2129, Raleigh, NC 27602-2129
• Physical Address: 4516 Lake Boone Trail, Raleigh, NC 27607
• Website: www.ncbon.com

For those seeking employment opportunities in North Carolina, explore current job openings at GoodWork.