Are you striving to enhance your career by acquiring a Nursing License in North Carolina? Our detailed guide imparts all the vital specifics, requirements, timelines, and fees entailed in securing and retaining a nursing license in the Tar Heel State.
North Carolina Nursing Schools
- The number of nursing schools in North Carolina is 89.
- The average NCLEX passing rate for North Carolina ADN programs is 85.87%.
- The average NCLEX passing rate for North Carolina BSN programs is 86.26%.
- Find the best ranked North Carolina nursing schools at:
Nursing Licenses in North Carolina at A Glance
| Type | Status |
|---|---|
| eNLC | Yes |
| Walk-Through | No |
| Temp License | Yes |
| Nursys | Yes |
| BON Website | North Carolina Board of Nursing |
| Contact Phone | (919) 782-3211 |
Nursing License in North Carolina
Steps, Timelines and Cost for Nursing Licenses in North Carolina
The process to earn a nursing license in North Carolina involves several steps:
| Step in Licensure Process | Timeframe | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Nursing Program (ADN/BSN) | 2-4 years (ADN), 4 years (BSN) | $10,000 – $60,000+ |
| Register for NCLEX Exam | Varies | $200 – $500 |
| Fingerprinting/Background Check | Depends on state | $38.00 |
| Take NCLEX Exam | Once registered | Included in registration |
| Await NCLEX Results | Up to 6 weeks typically | N/A |
| Apply for State Licensure | After passing NCLEX | $150.00 |
| Temporary License Issued | Approximately 2-3 weeks | Included in Endorsement Application Fee |
| Obtain Official Nursing License | Approximately 2-4 weeks | Included in Endorsement Application Fee |
| Renewal of License | Every 2 years | $100.00 |
| Continuing Education | Every 2 years | Varies |
Key Highlights for North Carolina Nursing Licenses
- Nursing Programs: Duration and cost for nursing programs in North Carolina vary, with ADN programs typically taking 2-4 years and BSN programs around 4 years. Costs range from $10,000 to over $60,000.
- NCLEX Authorization: Steps for obtaining authorization include applying to the North Carolina Board of Nursing and registering for the NCLEX exam. The cost ranges from $200 to $500.
- NCLEX Registration and Background Checks: Costs for NCLEX registration and any associated fingerprinting or background check fees are approximately $38.00 for the background check.
- NCLEX Test Results Wait Time: Nurses in North Carolina typically wait up to 6 weeks to receive their NCLEX test results.
- State Licensure Application: The application process includes a fee of $150.00. The expected processing time for a permanent license is approximately 2-4 weeks.
- Temporary License: North Carolina issues temporary licenses within approximately 2-3 weeks upon receipt of all required materials. These are valid for up to 6 months or until the permanent license has been issued.
- License Renewal: License renewal in North Carolina occurs every 2 years by the last day of your birth month, with a fee of $100.00. Continuing education of 15 hours is required every 2 years.
North Carolina Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Licenses
Advanced Practice Registered Nursing in North Carolina encompasses several specialized roles, each requiring specific education and certification.
- Education Requirements: APRNs in North Carolina must have completed a graduate-level education program in one of the recognized APRN roles: Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM).
- Certification: APRNs must obtain national certification in their chosen role from an approved certifying body.
- State Licensure: The North Carolina Board of Nursing regulates APRN practice, requiring an application, fees, proof of education and certification, and sometimes a background check.
- Prescriptive Authority: APRNs in North Carolina may have the authority to prescribe medications, subject to state regulations.
- Renewal and Continuing Education: APRN licenses must be renewed periodically, with requirements for continuing education or practice hours.
- Practice Authority: In North Carolina, APRNs have restricted practice authority. More information can be found in the North Carolina Nursing Practice Act.
- eNLC Participation: APRNs practicing in North Carolina can practice in other eNLC states without obtaining additional licenses.
- Scope of Practice: The scope of practice for APRNs in North Carolina is defined by state law and includes patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management.
- Role-Specific Requirements: Each APRN role has specific requirements related to education, clinical hours, or specialized skills.
- Transition to Practice: Some states require supervised practice hours for new APRNs.
- Insurance and Liability: APRNs in North Carolina should be aware of malpractice insurance requirements and may need to secure their own policy depending on their employment situation and state regulations.
