NCLEX in Alabama: you cannot apply until you have graduated
Alabama is strict about timing. The Board’s exam applicant notes say you cannot complete the application until after you have graduated and your official transcript has been received, and that staff will not consider an earlier application. Fingerprinting also comes only after your application is on file.
Last checked October 2026. Based on the Alabama Board of Nursing’s exam application pages and a third-party fee summary. The Board’s multistate application lists $225 plus a $3.50 transaction fee, and one summary lists a $125 single-state fee, so confirm which applies to you on abn.alabama.gov.
The path for a new graduate
Wait until you have graduated. The Board will not consider an application before graduation and receipt of your official transcript from your program.
Submit the online application with the primary state of residence form and the citizenship checklist, and pay the fee. Apply for licensure by examination in only one state.
You must have an application on file before you submit fingerprints. The background check includes FBI and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency reviews.
Register and pay $200. The Board requires you to give Pearson VUE your middle name and Social Security number, and the name on your testing ID must match both registrations.
Once the Board confirms eligibility, Pearson VUE issues your ATT. You can schedule in Alabama or another state.
If you fail or tested elsewhere
- A repeat applicant completes a new online exam application and registers with Pearson VUE again. The Board says you are not eligible for a temporary permit.
- If it has been more than 12 months since you last tested, Board staff may ask for additional documentation.
- If you applied to test in another state first, you must still be eligible there, and the Board requires an out-of-state repeat examination attachment completed by that board.
Common questions
What is the citizenship checklist?
The Board’s checklist asks for a citizenship or legal presence form with supporting documents. The Board has a separate FAQ on meeting this requirement.
Can I get a multistate license?
To qualify for a multistate license, Alabama must be your primary state of residence and you must meet the compact’s eligibility requirements. Confirm with the Board.