North Carolina’s licensing landscape remained stable in the 2023-24 fiscal year, with a total of 5,687,709 occupational and business or recreational licenses issued. This figure is nearly unchanged from the previous year, dropping by less than one-tenth of one percent.
According to data from the North Carolina Business and Occupational License Database (NC BOLD), the state issued 1,427,535 occupational licenses and 4,260,174 business or recreational licenses during this period. Two categories—classified driver’s licenses and coastal recreational fishing licenses—accounted for a combined 59% of all business licenses issued. Driver’s licenses made up 48%, while coastal recreational fishing licenses represented 11%.
The state currently has 965 unique active license types. Of these, 855 issued new licenses in fiscal year 2023-24; the remaining 110 did not issue any new credentials during that time. Occupational licenses represent about a quarter of all issued credentials and are required for specific professions or trades. The majority—75%—are business or recreational licenses needed for operating businesses in certain sectors or offering specific services.
NC BOLD serves as North Carolina’s main source for licensing information under General Statute 143B-431(e). The database allows users to search for licensing requirements, download application forms, and find contact details for relevant agencies. It works with around 76 Business License Coordinators across various state entities to keep information accurate.
“Whether you’re researching career options or planning to start a business in North Carolina, NC BOLD offers the comprehensive information you need to understand your licensing obligations,” according to information provided by NC BOLD.
As of July 1, 2024, professional privilege licenses are no longer required in North Carolina.
The NC BOLD database is updated annually; the next update is expected in June 2026. For further details on career pathways and skills requirements related to occupational licensing data in North Carolina, individuals can visit ncbold.com or consult additional resources at NCcareers.org and the U.S. Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop resource center.
