Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Firefighter in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 2
Certification: Certification required.
- 3
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board Examiners of Plumbing Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$37,250 median (37% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.).
- 5. Submit the application to NC Board Examiners of Plumbing Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $37,250, Firefighters in North Carolina earn 37% below the national median of $59,530. North Carolina ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$37,250Hourly estimate
$17.9137% below national median
Difference: -$22,280
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#47 of 50 statesfor Firefighter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $93,490 |
| #2 | New York | $88,380 |
| #3 | New Jersey | $87,660 |
| #4 | California | $83,400 |
| #5 | Illinois | $79,080 |
Nearby States Comparison
Firefighter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $37,250 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $58,300 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $47,300 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $45,970 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $45,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| 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.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Board Examiners of Plumbing Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors
1109 Dresser Court, Raleigh, NC, 27609
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $49,080 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $58,030 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $35,900 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $73,100 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in North Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Firefighters in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Firefighters.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in North Carolina is $37,250. Salaries range from $28,360 (10th percentile) to $64,140 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Firefighters in North Carolina earn 37% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $37,250.
How many Firefighters work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 18,200 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Firefighters in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board Examiners of Plumbing Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors. Review agency details at https://nclicensing.org/.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.