There are two methods of applying in NC (Found
here
- The long application, where you list all your experience and get reference letters, etc.
- The short application, where you use the NCEES online system to pre-approve your experience and references.
You could start filling out all your information on the NCEES record, but I wouldn't submit it for approval until after you have passed the test and are ready to apply - it must be approved within the last 6 months or something and the references must all be current as well.
NC is one of the states where you can use the NCEES record for your initial application, most you can't. It was meant to help speed up the process of applying to multiple states.