Alabama Nurse License Overview
Getting your Alabama nursing license can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you're applying for the first time, endorsing from another state, or renewing your license, this guide covers everything you need to know—requirements, fees, timelines, and continuing education.
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How long does it take to get a Alabama Nursing License?
Permanent License
RN (BRN): Approximately 10–12 weeks once all materials (transcripts, fingerprints, and verification) are received.
LVN (BVNPT): Currently faster, averaging 3–4 weeks for endorsement applications as of early 2026.
Temporary License
RN (BRN): Yes. Valid for 6 months. It takes approximately 2–3 weeks to issue, but only after your fingerprints (Live Scan or Hard Card) have been processed by the DOJ and FBI.
LVN (BVNPT): No. Unlike RNs, Alabama does not currently offer a temporary license for LVNs/LPNs coming from out of state. However, they do offer an Interim Permit ($50) for new graduates waiting to take the NCLEX-PN.
Board of Nursing
FEES
Fees Breakdown
Detailed overview of applicable fees and charges
| Item | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Application (Endorsement) | $125 (SSL) / $225 (MSL) | $125 (SSL) / $225 (MSL) |
| Temporary Practice Permit | $125 (SSL) / $225 (MSL) | $125 (SSL) / $225 (MSL) |
| Renewal (2-year cycle) | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Background Check | ~$30–$60 | ~$30–$60 |
Key Sections:
Alabama License Renewal
- Renewal cadence: Your first Alabama RN or LPN license is issued for two birthdays, not two years. It will expire on the last day of the month following your birth date. From that date forward, the license expires every two years if renewed timely.
- RN Renewal fee: $190.00 Note: If you have prescriptive authority, an additional $30.00 CURES fee is assessed, bringing the total to $220.00.
- LPN Renewal fee: $305.00
- Late fee: If renewed after the expiration date, a delinquent fee is added (+$90 for RNs / +$150 for LPNs).
Required contact hours:
- Standard Requirement: 30 contact hours every two years.
- First-Time Renewal: While the 30-hour requirement is generally waived for your very first renewal, you are now required to complete 1 hour of Implicit Bias training within the first two years of licensure per California AB 1407.
Renewal Process:
- Renewal of your license is done exclusively online through the BreEZesystem. It is highly recommended to renew at least 4–8 weeks before your expiration date to ensure your "Active" status updates in the system.
Working Status:
- You may work while your license renewal is pending, provided that the renewal fee and all requirements (including the mandatory implicit bias hour for first-timers) were submitted on or before the expiration date.
- Important Note:Most employers verify status via the online DCA search. If your license reaches its expiration date without the Board processing the renewal, your status will show as "Delinquent," which may prevent you from being scheduled for shifts.
Important Things to Know: Alabama Nurse Licenses (2026)
| Feature | RN (Registered Nurse) | LVN (Vocational Nurse) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Board | Alabama Board of Nursing (ABN) | Alabama Board of Nursing (ABN) |
| Compact Status | Yes (eNLC State) | Yes (eNLC State) |
| Background Check | Required (Fingerprinting) | Required (Fingerprinting) |
| License Verification | Via Nursys | Via Nursys |
| Education Standards | Approved nursing program | Approved nursing program |
| Application Portal | ABN Online Portal | ABN Online Portal |
| Criminal History | Must be disclosed and reviewed | Must be disclosed and reviewed |
| Walk-through Processing | Available | Available |
| Temporary License | Available | Available |
| Processing Time | Varies (depends on application & verification) | Varies (depends on application & verification) |
AL Licensure by Endorsement
Process: Permanent License
- 1.
Online Application
- Submit your application through the Alabama Board of Nursing online portal
- Pay the required application fee
- 2.
License Verification
- Complete verification through Nursys
- If your state is not on Nursys, request verification from your original state board
- 3.
Education & Documentation
- Provide proof of graduation from an approved nursing program
- Submit official transcripts (sent directly from your school)
- Additional documentation may be required for international graduates
- 4.
Identity & Legal Status
- Provide a valid U.S. Social Security Number
- Submit proof of citizenship or legal presence (as required)
- 5.
Disclosure of Discipline
- Applicants must disclose any prior disciplinary actions and criminal convictions.
- Additional documentation may be required and reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- 6.
Background Check & Fingerprinting
- Fingerprinting is required
- Must be completed through approved vendors
- Application must be initiated before completing fingerprinting
Temporary License
- 1.
Availability
- Temporary licenses are issued for first-time endorsement applicants only
- Not available if you previously held an Alabama nursing license
- 2.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must have a pending endorsement application
- Not available if there are: criminal history disclosures or disciplinary actions or pending investigations
- 3.
Validity & Use
- Valid for up to 180 days (6 months)
- Non-renewable
- 4.
Requirements for Issuance
- Submit application and fee
- Complete required documentation and verification
- Temporary license may be issued after initial review
- 5.
Special Cases
- Disaster Temporary Permits may be issued during declared emergencies
- Typically valid for a limited period (e.g., up to 90 days)
Alabama Continuing Education Requirements
Your Guide to Continuing Education Requirements in Alabama
Quick Reference Table
| License Type | Hours Required | First Renewal (0-2 Years) | Standard Renewal (2+ Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RN | 24 contact hours | Requirements may be prorated for first-time licensees | 24 contact hours — must be relevant to nursing practice and completed through ABN-approved providers |
| LPN | 24 contact hours | Requirements may be prorated for first-time licensees | 24 contact hours — same requirements as RN |
| APRN | Varies by certification | Maintain national certification | Must meet certifying body requirements |
Key Notes for Alabama
- CE is required for license renewal only, not for endorsement or initial licensure
- CE must be completed through Board-approved providers
- The Alabama Board of Nursing may audit CE records
- Failure to meet CE requirements may result in delayed or denied renewal
- CE must be completed before the renewal deadline
- Requirements may be prorated for first-time licensees
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Download CerTracker for FreeFAQs About Alabama Nursing License
How much does an Alabama nursing license cost?
Renewal Fee (RN/LPN): $100. Fees may increase for late renewal. Additional costs may apply for optional services or reinstatement.
How long does it take to get an Alabama nursing license?
Processing time typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks after all required documents are received. Delays may occur if background checks or required documents are incomplete.
How many CE hours are required to renew a nursing license in Alabama?
Nurses must complete 24 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years. CE must be completed through Alabama Board of Nursing (ABN)-approved providers before renewal.