North-Carolina Nursing
License Requirements &
Renewal Guide
North-Carolina Nurse License Overview
Getting your North-Carolina nursing license can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you're applying for the first time, endorsing from another state, or renewing your license, this guide covers everything you need to know—requirements, fees, timelines, and continuing education.
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How long does it take to get a North-Carolina Nursing License?
Permanent License
RN (BRN): Approximately 10–12 weeks once all materials (transcripts, fingerprints, and verification) are received.
LVN (BVNPT): Currently faster, averaging 3–4 weeks for endorsement applications as of early 2026.
Temporary License
RN (BRN): Yes. Valid for 6 months. It takes approximately 2–3 weeks to issue, but only after your fingerprints (Live Scan or Hard Card) have been processed by the DOJ and FBI.
LVN (BVNPT): No. Unlike RNs, North-Carolina does not currently offer a temporary license for LVNs/LPNs coming from out of state. However, they do offer an Interim Permit ($50) for new graduates waiting to take the NCLEX-PN.
Board of Nursing
FEES
Fees Breakdown
Detailed overview of applicable fees and charges
| Item | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Application | $150.00 | $150.00 |
| Temporary Practice Permit | ~$25.00 | ~$25.00 |
| Renewal (2-year cycle) | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Background Check | $38.00 | $38.00 |
Key Sections:
North-Carolina License Renewal
- Renewal cadence: Your first North-Carolina RN or LPN license is issued for two birthdays, not two years. It will expire on the last day of the month following your birth date. From that date forward, the license expires every two years if renewed timely.
- RN Renewal fee: $190.00 Note: If you have prescriptive authority, an additional $30.00 CURES fee is assessed, bringing the total to $220.00.
- LPN Renewal fee: $305.00
- Late fee: If renewed after the expiration date, a delinquent fee is added (+$90 for RNs / +$150 for LPNs).
Required contact hours:
- Standard Requirement: 30 contact hours every two years.
- First-Time Renewal: While the 30-hour requirement is generally waived for your very first renewal, you are now required to complete 1 hour of Implicit Bias training within the first two years of licensure per California AB 1407.
Renewal Process:
- Renewal of your license is done exclusively online through the BreEZesystem. It is highly recommended to renew at least 4–8 weeks before your expiration date to ensure your "Active" status updates in the system.
Working Status:
- You may work while your license renewal is pending, provided that the renewal fee and all requirements (including the mandatory implicit bias hour for first-timers) were submitted on or before the expiration date.
- Important Note:Most employers verify status via the online DCA search. If your license reaches its expiration date without the Board processing the renewal, your status will show as "Delinquent," which may prevent you from being scheduled for shifts.
Important Things to Know: North-Carolina Nurse Licenses (2026)
| Feature | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Board | North Carolina Board of Nursing (NCBON) | North Carolina Board of Nursing (NCBON) |
| Compact Status | Yes (eNLC Member) | Yes (eNLC Member) |
| Background Check | Required (Fingerprinting) | Required (Fingerprinting) |
| License Verification | Via Nursys | Via Nursys |
| Education Standards | Approved nursing program | Approved nursing program |
| Application Portal | NCBON Online Portal | NCBON Online Portal |
| Criminal History | Must be disclosed and reviewed | Must be disclosed and reviewed |
| Processing Time | Varies (based on application completeness and document verification) | Varies (based on application completeness and document verification) |
NC Licensure by Endorsement
Process: Permanent License
- 1.
Online Application
- Submit your application through the NCBON online portal
- Pay the required application fee
- 2.
Verification of Licensure
- Complete verification through Nursys
- If your state is not on Nursys, manual verification may be required
- 3.
Education & Documentation
- Provide proof of graduation from an approved nursing program
- Submit transcripts if requested
- Additional documentation may be required for international graduates
- 4.
Disclosure of Discipline
- Applicants must disclose any prior disciplinary actions and criminal convictions.
- Supporting documents may be required and reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- 5.
Background Check & Fingerprints
- Fingerprinting is required
- Must be completed through approved vendors
Temporary License
- 1.
Availability
- Temporary license may be issued while your application is being processed — issued on a case-by-case basis
- 2.
Validity & Use
- Typically valid for up to 6 months or until permanent license is issued
- 3.
Background Check Requirement
- Must have a pending endorsement application
North-Carolina Continuing Education Requirements
Your Guide to Continuing Education Requirements in North-Carolina
Quick Reference Table
| License Type | Hours Required | First Renewal (0-2 Years) | Standard Renewal (2+ Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN | 15 contact hours OR 1 Board-approved competency option | CE must be relevant to nursing practice | 15 contact hours OR 1 Board-approved competency option (e.g., national certification, academic course, employer verification) |
| LPN | 15 contact hours OR 1 Board-approved competency option | CE must be relevant to nursing practice | 15 contact hours OR 1 Board-approved competency option — same competency options apply as RN |
| APRN | Varies by certification and role | Must maintain national certification | Additional requirements based on specialty and certifying body |
Key Rules for All Licenses
- Must meet at least one approved competency option each renewal cycle
- CE must be relevant to nursing practice
- Documentation may be subject to audit by the Board
- Additional requirements may apply based on role or certification (especially APRNs)
- Approved competency options include: 15 contact hours of CE, national certification, academic coursework, employer verification of continued competence, or a refresher course
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Download CerTracker for FreeFAQs About North-Carolina Nursing License
How much does a North Carolina nursing license cost?
$190 for RNs if renewed on time. Fees may be higher for late renewals or vary depending on your license type and application status.
How long does it take to get a North Carolina nursing license?
Most applicants receive their permanent license within 2–4 weeks once all materials are received.
How many CE hours are required to renew a nursing license in North Carolina?
Nurses must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years, or 15 hours plus another approved competency activity.