North Carolina

Registered Nurse CE & renewal requirements in North Carolina (2026)

15 contact hours per renewal, on a 24-month renewal cycle with North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Verified & sourcedSee citation below

Renewal cycle

24months

Biennial, expires on last day of nurse's birth month

Contact hours

15

15 contact hours per renewal — No single fixed number — requires self-assessment + learning plan + ONE of 8 continuing-competence options. Common: 15 contact hours + 640 practice hours, OR 30 contact hours alone, OR national certification.

Verified against ncbon.com · Verified July 5, 2026

Rules change — always confirm current requirements with your board before relying on this page. Visit North Carolina Board of Nursing

Frequently asked questions

How often do registered nurses renew their license in North Carolina?
Biennial, expires on last day of nurse's birth month
How many contact hours do I need in North Carolina?
15 contact hours per renewal. No single fixed number — requires self-assessment + learning plan + ONE of 8 continuing-competence options. Common: 15 contact hours + 640 practice hours, OR 30 contact hours alone, OR national certification.
Where do I renew my Registered Nurse license in North Carolina?
Through North Carolina Board of Nursing. We verified these details on 2026-07-05 — always confirm with the board before your deadline.
Is this page official?
No — RenewBird is an independent organizational tool, not the licensing board. This page cites its source and check date; use it to plan, then confirm with your board.