LPN Programs in North Carolina: Schools, Requirements & Salary (2026)
North Carolina LPN programs prepare students for a high-demand nursing career in one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing states. With approximately 20,010 LPNs employed across the state and a median salary of $51,490, North Carolina offers strong employment opportunities for practical nurses — especially in the Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham Research Triangle, and Triad regions. LPN schools in North Carolina are available through the state’s extensive community college system, with programs spread from the Piedmont to the Coastal Plain. The NC Board of Nursing oversees all LPN licensure requirements. If you’re searching for LPN classes in North Carolina, this guide covers the top programs, state requirements, salary outlook, and how to get started. North Carolina is also a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, giving licensed LPNs the flexibility to practice in dozens of other states.
LPN Salary in North Carolina
The median annual salary for LPNs in North Carolina is $51,490, which is $8,240 below the national median of $59,730. The state employs approximately 20,010 LPNs, with projected job growth of 6% through 2032.
Top-Paying Cities in North Carolina
| City | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Charlotte | $53,200 |
| Raleigh | $52,800 |
| Durham | $52,500 |
| Greensboro | $51,100 |
| Wilmington | $50,800 |
For detailed salary percentiles and metro-area data, see our complete LPN salary guide.
How to Become an LPN in North Carolina
To practice as an LPN in North Carolina, you must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Here's the process:
Complete prerequisites
High school diploma or GED, CPR/BLS certification, passing TEAS or HESI entrance exam score, background check, and current immunizations.
Enroll in an approved LPN program
Choose a program approved by the NC Board of Nursing. North Carolina LPN programs typically require 600+ clinical hours across acute care, long-term care, and community health settings.
Complete coursework and clinical rotations
Programs cover nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, anatomy, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health. Clinical rotations take place at hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics across North Carolina.
Pass the NCLEX-PN
After graduating, register with the NC Board of Nursing and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to earn your LPN license.
Apply for North Carolina licensure
Submit your license application through the NC Board of Nursing. Processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks. Many North Carolina employers hire pending license verification.
Top LPN Programs in North Carolina
The following accredited programs are among the most established LPN schools in North Carolina:
| School | City | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Piedmont Community College | Charlotte | 12 months | In-person |
| Wake Technical Community College | Raleigh | 12 months | In-person |
| Forsyth Technical Community College | Winston-Salem | 12 months | In-person |
| Fayetteville Technical Community College | Fayetteville | 12 months | In-person |
| Edgecombe Community College | Tarboro | 12 months | In-person |
Program details are subject to change. Verify current offerings directly with each school.
Browse LPN programs in all 50 states
Career Pathways for North Carolina LPNs
Your LPN license in North Carolina opens several advancement routes:
MA to LPN
Already a medical assistant? Bridge programs can fast-track your LPN in 6–12 months.
CNA to LPN
CNAs can earn advanced standing and complete LPN programs faster.
LPN to RN
Advance to Registered Nurse and boost your salary to $86K+ median.
LPN to BSN
Earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing for the widest career options.
Exploring options in nearby states? Check out LPN programs in Virginia, South Carolina, and Georgia.
Frequently Asked Questions: LPN Programs in North Carolina
How much do LPNs make in North Carolina?
The median LPN salary in North Carolina is $51,490 per year. LPNs in the Charlotte metro area earn the most at approximately $53,200, followed by Raleigh at $52,800 and Durham at $52,500. Shift differentials and overtime in long-term care facilities can increase total annual compensation.
How long does it take to become an LPN in North Carolina?
Most North Carolina LPN programs take 12 months to complete as a full-time student. After graduation, you must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and apply for licensure through the NC Board of Nursing, which typically takes an additional 2 to 6 weeks.
What are the best LPN programs in North Carolina?
Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte and Wake Technical Community College in Raleigh are among the largest state-approved LPN programs with strong NCLEX-PN pass rates. Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem and Fayetteville Technical Community College also offer well-regarded practical nursing programs.
Does North Carolina have online LPN programs?
Some North Carolina LPN programs offer hybrid formats with online classroom instruction and in-person clinical rotations. Fully online LPN programs are not available in North Carolina because hands-on clinical hours must be completed at approved healthcare facilities.
What does the NC Board of Nursing require for LPN licensure?
The NC Board of Nursing requires completion of a state-approved practical nursing program, a passing score on the NCLEX-PN exam, a criminal background check, and submission of a license application with fees. North Carolina participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs to practice in other compact states with a single license.
Find LPN Programs in North Carolina
Compare accredited LPN programs near you. Search by location, schedule, and cost to find the right fit.
Last updated: 2026-03-03. Salary data: BLS May 2024 OES, SOC 29-2061.