Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Alabama
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$71,040 median (24% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Alabama eligibility requirements for Registered Nurse licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Alabama Board of Nursing and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of $71,040, Registered Nurses in Alabama earn 24% below the national median of $93,600. Alabama ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,201Median annual salary
$71,040Hourly estimate
$34.1524% below national median
Difference: -$22,560
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#49 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | $136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | $123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | $112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | $110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $71,040 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $79,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $86,560 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Florida | $82,850 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $74,470 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Mississippi | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Alabama Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 303900, Montgomery, AL, 36130
Phone: 3342935200
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $323,940 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $53,640 | Degree required | 3 years |
| Audiologist | $76,900 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Registered Nurses in Alabama?
Alabama lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in Alabama?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in Alabama.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in Alabama is $71,040. Salaries range from $53,360 (10th percentile) to $98,840 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in Alabama earn 24% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of $71,040.
How many Registered Nurses work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 53,340 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Registered Nurses in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.abn.alabama.gov/.
How often do you renew a Registered Nurse license in Alabama?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.