Author: Shincy George | Nursing Manthra
Are you an internationally educated nurse (IEN) looking to get licensed in the United States? Alabama is one of the U.S. states with a straightforward licensure process—but you must follow all the required steps carefully. In this blog, I, Shincy George from Nursing Manthra, will walk you through the complete RN licensure application process for the Alabama Board of Nursing (ABN), specially tailored for foreign-educated nurses.
✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for RN Licensure in Alabama (For IENs)
1️⃣ Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To apply, you must:
- Be a graduate of a government-recognized nursing program equivalent to a U.S. RN program.
- Have an active nursing license in your home country or jurisdiction.
- Be fluent in English.
2️⃣ Complete the CGFNS Credential Evaluation
The Alabama Board of Nursing requires credential verification through CGFNS International:
- You must choose the CES Professional Report (Credential Evaluation Service).
- Submit your nursing school transcripts and license verification.
- Wait for CGFNS to send the evaluation report directly to the Alabama Board of Nursing.
📝 Note: CGFNS report is mandatory even if you have passed the NCLEX in another state.
3️⃣ Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
If you have not already passed the NCLEX-RN, you must:
- Apply for eligibility through the Alabama Board of Nursing.
- After eligibility is granted, register with Pearson VUE.
- Prepare thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Pass the exam to continue with licensure.
📌 Important: Alabama does not issue a temporary permit—you must pass the NCLEX before practicing.
4️⃣ Submit Application to Alabama Board of Nursing
Apply online through the official website: www.abn.alabama.gov
Documents required:
- Completed application form
- Valid passport copy
- CGFNS CES report
- Proof of NCLEX-RN pass (if applicable)
- Payment of non-refundable fee (approx. $100–$150)
- Social Security Number (SSN) is required (you may apply later if you’re on an immigration pathway)
5️⃣ Complete Criminal Background Check & Fingerprinting
You must undergo a state and federal background check:
- Schedule fingerprinting through Gemalto Cogent Systems (or ABN’s chosen vendor).
- Pay the fingerprinting fee (~$48).
- Results are sent directly to the ABN.
6️⃣ Await Board Decision
Once all documents, fees, and results are received:
- The board will review your file.
- If approved, you will receive your Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- License can be verified at: Alabama License Lookup
💡 Additional Tips from Nursing Manthra
- English Proficiency Test may be required (IELTS/TOEFL) if your education was not in English.
- If you’re already in the U.S., make sure your immigration status allows you to apply.
- Alabama is not a Compact State for initial licensure, but they are part of the eNLC for multistate license endorsement.
💬 Need Help with Your Alabama RN License Process?
At Nursing Manthra, we help internationally educated nurses like you with:
- CGFNS documentation
- NCLEX preparation materials
- Application support
- Fingerprinting and U.S. address services
📲 Contact us on WhatsApp or visit our website: www.nursingmanthra.com
Let’s make your U.S. RN dream a reality!
