Certifications & licenses in North Carolina
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in NC. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about North Carolina
Licensing landscape in North Carolina
As of 2024, Session Law 2024-45 created an exemption for unlicensed individuals to perform blowdrying services, a change from previous, more stringent regulations.
NC Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners
Effective July 1, 2024, the minimum required training for massage and bodywork therapists increased from 500 to 650 hours.
North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
As of 2024, 17-year-olds can take the state EMT exam, but the North Carolina Office of EMS will not issue the credential until the individual turns 18.
North Carolina Office of EMS
A Limited Electrical Contractor license in 2024 requires 3,000 hours of experience and has a project value limit of $60,000.
NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in North Carolina
With household expenses 7% lower than the national average in 2024, a $60,000 salary in North Carolina has the approximate purchasing power of $64,200 in an average-cost state.
Regional comparison: North Carolina vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs NC |
|---|---|---|
| NC | $38,460 | — |
| VA | $43,200 | +12% vs NC |
| TN | $37,990 | -1% vs NC |
| GA | $37,680 | -2% vs NC |
| SC | $37,220 | -3% vs NC |
| State | Required training hours | vs NC |
|---|---|---|
| NC | 650 hours | — |
| VA | 500 hours | -150 hours |
| TN | 650 hours | 0 hours |
| GA | 500 hours | -150 hours |
| SC | 650 hours | 0 hours |
Healthcare in North Carolina
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $38,460 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $50,380 |
| EMT | Required | $44,250 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $63,270 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $45,140 |
| Medical Coder | No | $49,620 |
| Paramedic | Required | $57,320 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $44,530 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $43,330 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $74,450 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $84,350 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $80,090 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $60,920 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $97,850 |
Skilled Trades in North Carolina
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $51,530 |
| Electrician | Required | $56,800 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $57,260 |
| Plumber | Required | $57,080 |
| Welder | No | $50,590 |
Personal Care & Wellness in North Carolina
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $46,450 |
| Barber | Required | $31,050 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $38,410 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $60,650 |
Professional & Business in North Carolina
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $82,050 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $57,500 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $58,710 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $51,240 |