Athletic Trainer / North Carolina
2026 data North Carolina board official source

North Carolina Athletic Trainer License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Prevents and treats injuries for athletes. Requires BOC examination.

What the North Carolina data shows for Athletic Trainers

North Carolina sets the entry bar for athletic trainers at 2,946 training hours and a passing score on BOC Examination. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under North Carolina's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree".

The initial price tag is $139, and renewal costs $117 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 50 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, athletic trainers should know: Athletic Training Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in North Carolina

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree
2,946 hours
Exam Requirement
BOC Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$139
Renewal Fee
$117
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
50 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Carolina licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Athletic Trainer in North Carolina?
North Carolina's requirements cover 2946 hours of education or training, the BOC Examination exam, and an initial fee of $139. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as an Athletic Trainer in North Carolina?
To become a licensed athletic trainer in North Carolina, you must meet the state's requirements including 2946 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the North Carolina licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Athletic Trainer license to North Carolina from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for athletic trainers: Athletic Training Compact: adoption underway. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the North Carolina licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does North Carolina require a background check for Athletic Trainer licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for athletic trainer licensing in North Carolina. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Athletic Trainer in North Carolina?
Licensed athletic trainers in North Carolina must complete 50 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $117.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites