How To Renew Your LPN License in North Carolina

Renewing your licensed practical nurse (LPN) license in North Carolina is essential to maintaining your professional credentials and continuing to practice legally. This guide provides detailed information on the renewal process, requirements, continuing competence obligations, important timelines, application procedures, fees, and tips for a seamless renewal experience. 

Understanding the renewal cycle 

In North Carolina, LPN licenses are valid for two years and expire on the last day of your birth month. You’re required to renew your license by this date to avoid it being placed on expired status. It's advisable to renew your license within 90 days prior to expiration to ensure all steps are completed on time.  

Renewal requirements 

To renew your North Carolina LPN license, you must: 

• Submit a renewal application. Complete the online renewal process through the  Nurse Portal by the North Carolina Board of Nursing (NCBON).
• Pay the renewal fee. The non-refundable fee for LPN license renewal in North Carolina is $100.  
• Meet continuing competence requirements. Fulfill the 30 continuing education (CE) hour requirements as specified by the NCBON.  

Continuing competence requirements 

North Carolina requires LPNs to demonstrate continuing competence for license renewal. You can fulfill this requirement by completing one of the following options within the previous two years: 

• 15 contact hours of CE and 640 hours of active practice: Active practice is defined as activities performed, either for compensation or without compensation, consistent with the scope of practice for LPNs.
• 30 contact hours of CE: Complete 30 contact hours of CE activities.
• National certification or recertification: Obtain certification or recertification by a national credentialing body recognized by the NCBON.
• Completion of a board-approved refresher course: Complete a refresher course approved by the NCBON.
• Post-licensure academic education: Complete a minimum of two semester hours of post-licensure academic education related to nursing practice.
• 15 contact hours and a nursing project: Complete 15 contact hours of CE and a nursing project as principal or co-principal investigator.
• 15 contact hours and authoring a publication: Complete 15 contact hours of CE and author or co-author a nursing-related article, paper, book, or book chapter.
• 15 contact hours and conducting a presentation: Complete 15 contact hours of CE and develop and conduct a nursing CE presentation totaling a minimum of five contact hours.  

Timelines and important dates 

• Renewal notifications: The NCBON sends postcard notifications via mail approximately 90 days prior to the expiration of your license. However, you’re responsible for renewing your license by the last day of your birth month, regardless of whether you receive a notification.
• Late renewal: If you don’t renew by the last day of your birth month, your license is automatically placed on expired status at midnight on the last day of the expiration month. Practicing with an expired license is illegal and may result in penalties.  

Submitting the renewal application 

To renew your license: 

1. Access the Nurse Portal. Log in or register at https://www.ncbon.com/.
2. Complete the renewal application. Update your personal information and answer all required questions.
3. Pay the renewal fee. Follow the online instructions to complete payment.
4. Attest to your continuing competence. Attest to the completion of the required continuing competence activities and retain documentation in case of audit. 

Renewal fees 

The renewal fee for a North Carolina LPN license is $100.  

Late renewal and reinstatement 

If you don’t renew your license by the expiration date, it will be placed on expired status, and you must apply for reinstatement to resume practice. Practicing with an expired license is illegal and may result in penalties.  

Verification of license status 

You can verify your license status through the NCBON’s verification service at https://www.ncbon.com/. This tool confirms your license's status and expiration date. 

Keeping track of continuing competence records 

Maintain records of your continuing competence activities, including certificates of completion, for at least two years after the renewal period. This documentation is essential if you're selected for a continuing competence audit by the NCBON. 

Tips for a smooth renewal process 

• Start early. Begin the renewal process as soon as the renewal period opens to ensure all steps are completed on time.
• Stay organized. Keep personal information up to date and maintain records of all continuing competence activities and related documentation.
• Use the online portal. The Nurse Portal offers a streamlined renewal process.
• Monitor communications. Regularly check your email or mail and the North Carolina Board of Nursing website for updates or notifications regarding your license 

By adhering to these guidelines and staying proactive, ensure a seamless renewal of your North Carolina LPN registration, allowing you to continue your nursing practice without interruption.