In the Diocese of Western North Carolina, all licenses to serve must be renewed each year.
All applicants must state their intention for seeking a license to serve.
The Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church (Canon I.6.2) require that "every Bishop, Presbyter or Deacon whose report is not included in a parochial report shall also report on the exercies of such office, and if there has been none, the causes or reasons which have prevented the same." The Diocese of Western North Carolina defines non-parochial clergy as those who are not employed on a stipendiary basis by a congregation within the diocese. A report is also required of non-canonical clergy who request to be licensed to officiate in the Diocese of Western North Carolina. This form also serves as the annual report for those who are re-applying.