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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Registered Nurse in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $79,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $86,560 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $82,850 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $74,470 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Alabama Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 303900, Montgomery, AL, 36130
Phone: 3342935200
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $76,900 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $74,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $47,790 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,280 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, 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. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. 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/.