Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by NC Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in North Carolina, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Civil Engineer in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite)
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Revenue • Taxpayer Assistance
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$93,590 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass the required examination: No exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the NC Department of Revenue~Taxpayer Assistance.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of 93,590, Civil Engineers in North Carolina earn 6% below the national median of 99590. North Carolina ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$93,590Hourly estimate
$45.006% below national median
Difference: -$6,000
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#36 of 50 statesfor Civil Engineer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 118,450 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 112,250 |
| #3 | Alaska | 107,240 |
| #4 | Washington | 105,090 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 104,600 |
Nearby States Comparison
Civil Engineer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $93,590 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $96,210 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $97,730 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $81,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $99,680 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
NC Department of Revenue • Taxpayer Assistance
3301 Terminal Drive, Suite 125, Raleigh, NC, 27604
Phone: 9197077500
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $87,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $102,140 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $58,860 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in North Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Civil Engineers in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Civil Engineers.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in North Carolina is 93,590. Salaries range from 65160 (10th percentile) to 145010 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in North Carolina earn 6% below the national median of 99590, with a state median of 93,590.
How many Civil Engineers work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 12670 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Civil Engineers in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Revenue / Taxpayer Assistance. Review agency details at https://www.ncdor.gov/taxes-forms/privilege-license-tax.