RN NLC Compact State

Alabama RN License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Alabama

Processing Time
4-8 weeks
Total Initial Cost
$348
Renewal Period
2 years
CE Hours Required
24 hours

1 Education Requirements

Program Requirements

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Additional Requirements

  • Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
  • Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
  • Foreign-educated nurses must meet CGFNS requirements

Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program

2 NCLEX-RN Examination

Exam Name

NCLEX-RN

Administered By

Pearson VUE

Exam Fee

$200

Tip: Register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.

Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.

3 Background Check

FBI criminal background check via fingerprinting
FBI and Alabama background check
Fingerprinting required for all endorsement applicants
Results sent directly to Alabama BON

4 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee $100
Examination Fee $200
Fingerprinting $48
Total $348

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years) $100

Continuing Education Requirements

24
Contact hours required
2 years
Renewal cycle

Required Topics

  • - General Nursing CE: 24 hours

Career Advancement

Many RNs advance their careers by pursuing advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

State Board of Nursing

Official Name
Alabama Board of Nursing
Phone
1-800-656-5318

Verify a License

Look up any Alabama nursing license status online.

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NLC Compact Member

Alabama is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. With a multistate license, you can practice in multiple states.

Learn about NLC benefits →

Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team

Based on 4 official sources Last verified: January 2025