Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse 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 Registered Nurse in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,860 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 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 81,860, Registered Nurses in North Carolina earn 13% below the national median of $93,600. North Carolina ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$81,860Hourly estimate
$39.3613% below national median
Difference: -$11,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#31 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | 123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | 112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | 110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $81,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $88,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $79,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $86,560 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $79,900 | 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | 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: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NC Board of Nursing
4516 Lake Boone Trail, Raleigh, NC, 27607
Phone: 9842387632
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in North Carolina is 81,860. Salaries range from $64,180 (10th percentile) to $107,110 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in North Carolina earn 13% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 81,860.
How many Registered Nurses work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 108,510 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.ncbon.com/.