Registered Nurse (RN) License in Alabama
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in Alabama, you must graduate from an approved nursing program (ADN, diploma, or BSN), pass the NCLEX-RN exam, complete a background check, and pay approximately $400 in fees. Alabama is an NLC compact state, allowing multistate practice. The licensing process takes 1-3 months after completing your nursing education.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $400 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Registered Nurse (RN) registration in Alabama
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $100
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $100
- Total Estimated Cost
- $400
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse (RN) license in Alabama. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Alabama licensing board.
Registered Nurse (RN) Salary in Alabama
Entry Level
$53,360
Median
$71,040
Experienced
$98,840
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in Alabama.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing in Alabama: What to Know
Alabama requires graduation from an approved registered nursing program — either a 2-year ADN, 2-3 year diploma, or 4-year BSN. The state explicitly requires U.S. citizenship or legal presence, good moral character, and passing the NCLEX-RN. Background checks are required. Alabama is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing multistate practice. Continuing education is required for renewal. The Alabama Board of Nursing also requires endorsement applicants from other states to apply separately. Alabama has a strong demand for nurses in rural areas, particularly in the Black Belt region.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse (RN) license cost in Alabama?
- The estimated total cost is $400, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse (RN) license in Alabama?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Registered Nurse (RN) license in Alabama?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Registered Nurse (RN) requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.