LPN Programs in North Carolina

North Carolina LPN Training

Currently, many people are worried job security. North Carolina LPN training is, for some, the start of an exciting new career in the growing healthcare industry.

North Carolina LPN training is a specialized training course that is meant to prepare individuals for a career as a licensed practical nurse. These professionals play a valuable role in helping doctors and other medical professionals to provide the best possible patient care.

Becoming an LPN in North Carolina

One can become an LPN by examination in North Carolina upon completion of a board-approved nursing education program. Once this requirement is fulfilled, he or she must register for the NCLEX-PN and obtain authorization to take the test. In addition, the applicant must have an official transcript send by the nursing program directly to the North Carolina Board of Nursing and complete a criminal background check. There is no limit to the number of times one can take the NCLEX in NC.

Foreign educated individuals can qualify to take the NCLEX by submitting documentation of education and passing an English proficiency exam. A valid social security number and criminal background check are also necessary.

LPNs that are licensed in a state outside of North Carolina can become licensed by endorsement. These individuals may also obtain a temporary license, which is valid for 6 months or until a license is granted. In order to issue a license by endorsement, applicants must submit proof of having met the following requirements:

• Completion of a nursing education program approved in another state or jurisdiction and comparable to those in NC
• Passing of the NCLEX or SBTPE
• Having sufficient mental and physical health to work as an LPN
• Unencumbered licensure
• Current license in good standing
• A criminal background check
• Completion of any necessary court conditions or a written explanation of any documents if he or she has been listed as a Nurse Aide with findings

Renewing an LPN License

LPN licenses are valid for 2 years, and expire on the last day of an individual's birth month. In order to renew, a nurse must fulfill one of the following continuing competence requirements within the last 2 years:

• 15 continuing education contact hours and 640 hours of working as an LPN
• 30 continuing education contact hours
• National certification or re-certification
• Board-approved refresher course
• 2 or more semester hours of post-licensure nursing academic education
• 15 continuing education contact hours and completion of a nursing project as principal investigator or co-investigator
• 15 continuing education contact hours and co-authoring a nursing-related published
• 15 continuing education contact hours and developing or teaching a nursing presentation(s) of a minimum 5 hours

Additional Resources

• North Carolina Board of Nursing

North Carolina LPN Resources

• North Carolina Division of Public Health
• Henderson County Department of Public Health
• Surry County Health & Nutrition Center