Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Technology
Software Developer Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for software developer in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Software Developer in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- No exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Environmental Quality • Coastal Management
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$131,000 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Software Developer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: No exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Department of Environmental Quality~Coastal Management and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $131,000, Software Developers in North Carolina earn 2% below the national median of $133,080. North Carolina ranks #12 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
$131,000Hourly estimate
$62.982% below national median
Difference: -$2,080
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSoftware Developer Salary Ranking
#12 of 50 statesfor Software Developer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $170,910 |
| #2 | Washington | $166,910 |
| #3 | New York | $161,260 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | $150,520 |
| #5 | Maryland | $137,890 |
Nearby States Comparison
Software Developer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $131,000 | Varies by state board | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $134,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $117,340 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $128,920 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $108,690 | 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 | 56 | 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Department of Environmental Quality • Coastal Management
400 Commerce Ave., Morehead City, NC, 28557
Phone: 2528082808
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Network Architects | $126,000 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | $121,070 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Database Architects | $130,560 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| IT Project Manager | $106,240 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Software Developer 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 Software Developers in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Software Developers.
What is the typical Software Developer salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Software Developers in North Carolina is $131,000. Salaries range from $79,620 (10th percentile) to $173,660 (90th percentile).
How does the Software Developer salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Software Developers in North Carolina earn 2% below the national median of $133,080, with a state median of $131,000.
How many Software Developers work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 57,590 Software Developers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Software Developer 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 Software Developers in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Environmental Quality / Coastal Management. Review agency details at https://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/coastal-management/coastal-management-permits.
How often do you renew a Software Developer license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.