With over 17,000 LPNs working throughout North Carolina, licensed practical nursing has become a popular career choice for those seeking to enter the medical field. These nurses work in various health care settings, including nursing homes, ambulatory care service facilities, and hospitals. The first step to becoming an LPN typically begins in the classroom, and students in North Carolina will find certificate and diploma options at colleges across the state. This page discusses the education options for licensed practical nurses, and includes information on state licensing, salary potential, and where the most LPN jobs can be found in North Carolina.
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How to Get an LPN License in North Carolina
Attending nursing school can be challenging, but that is only one hurdle that LPNs must jump over in order to practice in North Carolina. After graduation, prospective nurses must go through the licensing process and meet the requirements set forth by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. This section provides information on those requirements and the LPN licensing procedure.
Basic Requirements
- Complete the license by examination application and submit it to the Board four to six weeks before graduating from a nursing program.
Education & Training Requirements
LPNs are required to graduate from a school that has been approved by the state.
Additional Requirements
- Register for and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN, which is administered by Pearson VUE.
- In-state nursing school graduates must have their program director send a program verification form. Out-of-state students must arrange to have official nursing school transcripts sent to the Board of Nursing.
- Complete criminal background check.
- Pay $75 non-refundable fee.
Renewing Your License
LPN licenses are renewed every two years in North Carolina. In order to successfully renew a license, nurses must complete the continuing competency requirements, which can be fulfilled by taking 30 hours of continuing education classes, completing a Board-approved refresher course, or completing 640 hours of work experience and 15 hours of continuing education.
Salaries for LPNs in North Carolina
Like other nursing professionals, an LPNs salary is largely driven by where they choose to work. This section provides salary data for nurses in different geographical areas in North Carolina, as well as a comparison of nursing salaries on the state and national level.
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Top Paying Metropolitan Areas
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North Carolina LPN Employment Trends
Although LPNs can work in a number of health care settings, some types of employers have more opportunities than others. Continue reading to get data on where North Carolina LPNs find jobs, what areas of nursing they specialize in, and what level of education they generally receive.
Top Locations for Employment
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill NC-SC | 2,710 |
| Other North Carolina nonmetropolitan area | 1,790 |
| Raleigh-Cary | 1,280 |
| Winston-Salem | 1,170 |
| Greensboro-High Point | 1,120 |
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Fayetteville | 1,060 |
| Western Central North Carolina nonmetropolitan area | 1,030 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | 1,000 |
| Asheville | 970 |
| Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area | 840 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Employment of LPNs in North Carolina
2012 16,590
2022 20,780
Average Annual Openings 820
Source: Projections Central
North Carolina LPN Resources
Provides information on how nurses from other states can get a license by endorsement through the North Carolina nursing board.
Licensed Practical Nurse - North Carolina Board of Nursing
This page includes information on the legal responsibilities of LPNs in North Carolina.
Includes employment statistics about LPNs from the North Carolina Board of Nursing.
North Carolina Board of Nursing
Founded in 1903, the North Carolina Board of Nursing oversees the state’s nursing profession and education programs. LPNs can find important news and announcements, as well as information on licensure, education, and the state’s nursing practice in general.
North Carolina Nurses Association
Founded in 1902, the North Carolina Nurses Association promotes nurses by helping them provide quality patient care in facilities around the state. In order to deliver this support, the organization offers education, networking opportunities, and industry news.
North Carolina Trends in Nursing Education: 2010 – 2014
This report includes information about enrollment and graduation statistics from nursing schools around the state.
Protecting the Public by regulating the Practice of Nursing
This report provides licensing statistics for nurses in the state.
The Board of Nursing provides information about the NCLEX pass rates for all nursing schools in North Carolina.
Understanding the Scope of Practice and Role of the LPN
This site provides information about what the state expects from LPNs working in North Carolina, including decision making methodologies.