How to get your RN license in North Carolina

Getting licensed in North Carolina at a glance

Steps to get licensed in North Carolina

1. 1Graduate from a state-approved RN nursing program (ADN or BSN).
2. 2Apply for licensure by examination through the North Carolina Board of Nursing and pay the $75 application fee.
3. 3Register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 exam fee.
4. 4Complete the required fingerprint-based criminal background check.
5. 5Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT), then schedule and pass the NCLEX-RN.
6. 6The North Carolina Board of Nursing issues your RN license once the exam and background check clear.

Start at the source: North Carolina Board of Nursing. Already licensed elsewhere and moving to North Carolina? See licensure by endorsement instead.

North Carolina RN licensing FAQ

Does North Carolina require fingerprinting or a background check for a nursing license?

Yes. North Carolina requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check to get an initial RN license. Applicants seeking Licensure by Examination (NCLEX) must undergo a fingerprint-based State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) criminal history check, as required by the North Carolina Nursing Practice Act.

How much does the North Carolina RN license application cost?

The initial North Carolina RN license-by-examination application fee is $75. This is separate from the NCLEX-RN exam fee ($200 to Pearson VUE) and any fingerprint/background-check vendor fee. Confirm the current amount on the North Carolina Board of Nursing portal before you pay.

Can I work in North Carolina before my RN license is issued?

North Carolina does not issue a temporary permit for new-graduate applicants, so you generally cannot practice as an RN until your license is issued. NCBON's official position statement states new graduate nurses who have not yet passed the NCLEX are unlicensed assistive personnel and "may not work, practice, function, or portray himself/herself in the capacity as a licensed nurse" until licensed, no temporary/graduate practice permit is issued for licensure-by-examination candidates (a separate, six-month "Temporary License" exists only for licensure BY ENDORSEMENT, not by exam).

How do I apply for my first RN license in North Carolina?

Graduate from an approved nursing program, register for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE, apply for licensure by examination through the North Carolina Board of Nursing, complete the required background check, then pass the NCLEX-RN. The board issues your license once every requirement clears.

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