Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher 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 K-12 Teacher 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
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama State Department of Education
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$59,850 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 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 59,850, K-12 Teachers in Alabama earn 4% below the national median of $62,340. Alabama ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$59,850Hourly estimate
$28.774% below national median
Difference: -$2,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#31 of 50 statesfor K-12 Teacher median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 99,110 |
| #2 | California | 98,190 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 86,900 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 83,260 |
| #5 | New York | 82,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
K-12 Teacher licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $59,850 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $52,690 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $63,490 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $55,550 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $48,440 | Specific course required | No 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 | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 60 | 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 State Department of Education
P.O. Box 302101, Montgomery, AL, 36104
Phone: 3346944900
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $62,240 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $60,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $94,170 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $76,900 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher 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 K-12 Teachers in Alabama?
Alabama lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in Alabama?
The board typically expects Degree required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Alabama.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Alabama is 59,850. Salaries range from $45,510 (10th percentile) to $70,920 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Alabama earn 4% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 59,850.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 16,910 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher 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 K-12 Teachers in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama State Department of Education. Review agency details at https://www.alsde.edu/.