Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Licensed Practical Nurse Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed practical nurse in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Practical Nurse in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,380 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Board of Nursing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $61,380, Licensed Practical Nurses in North Carolina earn 2% below the national median of $62,340. North Carolina ranks #27 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
$61,380Hourly estimate
$29.512% below national median
Difference: -$960
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Practical Nurse Salary Ranking
#27 of 50 statesfor Licensed Practical Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $79,700 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | $77,940 |
| #3 | Alaska | $77,670 |
| #4 | California | $77,170 |
| #5 | Oregon | $76,570 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Practical Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $61,380 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $62,310 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $54,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $58,490 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $59,050 | 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Board of Nursing
4516 Lake Boone Trail, Raleigh, NC, 27607
Phone: 9842387632
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $73,100 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $397,850 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $52,980 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Practical Nurse 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 Licensed Practical Nurses in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Practical Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Practical Nurse licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Licensed Practical Nurse salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Licensed Practical Nurses in North Carolina is $61,380. Salaries range from $49,050 (10th percentile) to $75,580 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Practical Nurse salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Licensed Practical Nurses in North Carolina earn 2% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of $61,380.
How many Licensed Practical Nurses work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 17,430 Licensed Practical Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Practical Nurse license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Practical Nurses in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.ncbon.com/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Practical Nurse license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.