Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Business
Financial Advisor Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for financial advisor in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Financial Advisor in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of the Secretary of State • Securities Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$102,140 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of 102,140, Financial Advisors in North Carolina earn 0% above the national median of 102140. North Carolina ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$102,140Hourly estimate
$49.110% above national median
Difference: +$0
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFinancial Advisor Salary Ranking
#15 of 50 statesfor Financial Advisor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 167,970 |
| #2 | Idaho | 136,440 |
| #3 | California | 128,650 |
| #4 | Delaware | 128,170 |
| #5 | New Jersey | 123,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Financial Advisor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $102,140 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $99,990 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $89,390 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $98,490 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $98,900 | 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NC Department of the Secretary of State • Securities Division
2 South Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC, 27601-2903
Phone: 9198145500
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 |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $58,860 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Financial Advisor 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 Financial Advisors in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Financial Advisors.
What education do you need to become a Financial Advisor in North Carolina?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Financial Advisor licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Financial Advisor salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Financial Advisors in North Carolina is 102,140.
How does the Financial Advisor salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Financial Advisors in North Carolina earn 0% above the national median of 102140, with a state median of 102,140.
How many Financial Advisors work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 12850 Financial Advisors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Financial Advisor license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Financial Advisors in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of the Secretary of State / Securities Division. Review agency details at https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/securities/for_securities_professionals.