A Guide to Nursing in Alabama
📝 Licensing & Certification in Alabama
The Alabama Board of Nursing (ABN) oversees licensure for Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). Alabama participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses with multistate licenses to practice in other compact states.
Licensing Fees (2025)
- Application (Single-State License): $125 + $3.50 transaction fee
- Temporary Permit: $50
- License Verification: $30
- Renewal (Single-State): $103.50
- Renewal (Multistate): $203.50
🔄 License Renewal & Continuing Education
License renewal periods are biennial: RNs and APRNs renew in even-numbered years, while LPNs renew in odd-numbered years. The renewal window runs from September 1 to December 31.
Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
- RNs & LPNs: 24 contact hours every two years.
- APRNs: 24 contact hours every two years, including 6 hours in pharmacology.
💼 Job Market & Salary Outlook
As of May 2025, the average hourly wage for RNs in Alabama is approximately $36.24, equating to an annual salary of around $75,379. New graduate RNs can expect to earn between $60,364 and $73,247 annually, depending on experience and location.
The demand for nurses in Alabama remains strong, with a projected job growth rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
🏥 Top Hospitals in Alabama
Alabama is home to several nationally recognized hospitals:
- UAB Hospital – Birmingham, AL: Ranked as the best hospital in Alabama by U.S. News & World Report for 2024-2025, with high-performing specialties in multiple areas.
- Huntsville Hospital – Huntsville, AL: Recognized as the No. 2 hospital in Alabama and the top acute-care facility in North Alabama.
- East Alabama Medical Center – Opelika, AL: Named on Newsweek’s 2025 list of America's Best-In-State Hospitals.
- Thomas Hospital – Fairhope, AL: Recognized for high performance in heart attack and heart failure care.
🤝 Nursing Organizations in Alabama
Joining professional organizations can enhance your career through networking, education, and advocacy:
- Alabama State Nurses Association (ASNA): Advocates for nurses and the nursing profession in Alabama.
- Alabama Nursing Home Association (ANHA): Represents nursing homes and promotes quality long-term care.
- Alabama Organization for Nursing Leadership (AlaONL): Supports nurse leaders in advancing healthcare delivery.
🎓 Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Alabama
- Education: Complete an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN).
- Licensure Exam: Apply for and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Experience: Gain clinical experience through internships or entry-level positions.
- Certification: Pursue specialty certifications as desired.
Explore current nursing job opportunities in Alabama at Goodwork.
