Credential

NP

Est. Fees

$340

CE Hours

30 hrs/cycle

Controlled Subs

Sched II-V w/ physician supervision

Restricted Practice Authority

Lowest fees nationally (~$340). Collaborative Practice Agreement required. Compact state.

Verify your active RN license

Hold a current RN license in North Carolina or a valid compact multistate RN license. Board: ncbon.com

Complete an accredited MSN or DNP

CCNE or ACEN accredited with your NP specialty focus and at least 500 supervised clinical hours.

Pass your national certification exam

AANP or ANCC in your specialty. For PMHNP: ANCC PMHNP-BC only.

Submit your NP application

Apply online to the NC Board of Nursing. Fee: $340 — lowest in the nation. Transcripts and certification sent directly.

Complete background check

Fingerprinting through an approved vendor. Allow 2–4 weeks for processing.

Establish Collaborative Practice Agreement

Required before prescribing in North Carolina. Must be on file with the board.

Apply for DEA registration

Apply at dea.gov after state licensure. $888 every 3 years. Register with NC PDMP within 30 days.