North Carolina requires a state-level licensed practical nurse license. The licensing authority is State Board of Nursing. The median salary is $54,951 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
North Carolina requires a licensed practical nurse to hold a state license. Provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. Licensing is administered by the State Board of Nursing.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | Practical nursing program (12-18 months) from accredited school |
| Experience Details | Practical nursing program (12-18 months) from accredited school |
North Carolina requires passing the North Carolina NCLEX-PN Examination with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $200.
| Exam Name | North Carolina NCLEX-PN Examination |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | NCLEX-PN Examination |
| Application Fee | $200 |
Getting licensed as a licensed practical nurse in North Carolina takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $200 and renewal fees of $200 every 2 years. Continuing education of 24 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $200 |
| License Renewal | $200 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 24 hours |
Licensed Practical Nurses in North Carolina earn a median salary of $54,951, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in North Carolina |
| National average | $59,730 |
Yes — North Carolina requires a state-level licensed practical nurse license. Provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians.
The required exam is the North Carolina NCLEX-PN Examination. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $200.
The median annual salary for licensed practical nurses in North Carolina is $54,951. The national median is $59,730.
North Carolina requires 24 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.