How to get your RN license in North Carolina

1. Graduate from an approved nursing program. North Carolina accepts ADN and BSN graduates from programs accredited by ACEN or CCNE.
2. Apply to the North Carolina Board of Nursing. Submit your application, transcripts, and the $$100 licensing fee through the board's online portal at https://www.ncbon.com.
3. Background check. North Carolina does not require fingerprinting, but a self-disclosure of any prior convictions is required.
4. Register for the NCLEX-RN with NCSBN. Pay the $200 NCSBN fee, receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), and schedule with Pearson VUE.
5. Pass the NCLEX-RN. The exam is 75 to 145 questions, computer adaptive, up to 5 hours. Results are reported to your state board within 1–2 business days.
6. Receive your license. North Carolina Board of Nursing issues your license number once your NCLEX results post.

North Carolina continuing education and renewal

North Carolina requires 30 continuing education hours per 2-year renewal cycle. Renewals are managed online through North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Is North Carolina a compact state?

North Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). If you hold a multistate license issued by North Carolina, you can practice in every other compact state without applying for additional licensure. Your primary state of residency must be North Carolina to issue the compact license here.

How much does it cost to become an RN in North Carolina?

Total first-time licensure cost in North Carolina typically runs $300–$350: $100 state fee + $200 NCSBN NCLEX-RN fee, plus optional NCLEX prep ($10–$500 depending on resource).

Free NCLEX-RN practice for North Carolina candidates

Clarity gives every test-taker 10 free NCLEX questions per day with a free account. Premium ($9.99/mo) unlocks 5,000+ questions, the AI tutor, and 5 timed readiness exams modeled on the live NCLEX-RN — accepted at every state board because the NCLEX itself is the same nationally.