Nurse Practitioner License in North Carolina
Quick Answer
North Carolina requires an active RN license, a graduate degree, and national certification for NP licensure. NPs must maintain a collaborative practice agreement with a physician. Contact the NC Board of Nursing for current fees.
- Exam
- ANCC or AANP certification exam
- Timeline
- 3-6 months after MSN/DNP graduation
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Biennial
Requirements
Nurse Practitioner license in North Carolina
Nurse Practitioner Salary in North Carolina
Entry Level
$100,120
Median
$125,020
Experienced
$158,440
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Nurse Practitioner in North Carolina.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — ANCC or AANP certification exam
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 3-6 months after MSN/DNP graduation.
Nurse Practitioner Licensing in North Carolina: What to Know
North Carolina issues NP licensure as a secondary license (another license is a prerequisite, specifically RN). National certification, a graduate degree, and continuing education are required. North Carolina is a restricted practice state requiring NPs to work under a collaborative practice agreement with a physician. The NC Board of Nursing oversees NP licensure. Fee information is not provided in the COS data.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Nurse Practitioner license in North Carolina?
- The process typically takes 3-6 months after MSN/DNP graduation, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Nurse Practitioner license in North Carolina?
- You need to pass the ANCC or AANP certification exam. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Nurse Practitioner requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.