- (1) The applicant for approval to practice as a certified registered nurse practitioner shall have:
- (a) An active Alabama registered nurse license, or a multistate registered nurse license issued by a party state, as defined in Chapter 4 of these rules, unless authorized by the Board.
- (b) Met all requirements for completion of or graduation from an organized program of study and clinical experience beyond the basic educational preparation as a registered nurse that prepares nurse practitioners and is recognized by the Board of Nursing and the appropriate specialty-certifying agency.
- (c) Effective January 31, 2027, documented evidence of at least 3000 hours of clinical experience in a clinical setting as either a registered nurse or an advanced practice nurse.
- (d) At least a master’s or higher degree in advanced practice nursing from an accredited program recognized by the Board.
- (e) Current certification as a certified registered nurse practitioner granted by a national certifying agency recognized by the Board of Nursing in the clinical specialty consistent with educational preparation and appropriate to the area of practice
- (2) The applicant for initial approval as a certified registered nurse practitioner who meets one of the following criteria is exempt from the requirement for a master’s degree in nursing:
- 1. Graduation prior to 1996 from a Board-recognized post- baccalaureate program preparing nurse practitioners.
- 2. Graduation prior to 1984 from a non-baccalaureate program preparing nurse practitioners.
- (2) The Board of Nursing may grant a waiver of the master’s degree requirement at its discretion.
- (3) Have obtained continuing education prescribed by the Board of Nursing regarding the rules and statutes governing collaborative practice in Alabama, not more than forty-eight (48) months prior to or within twelve (12) months of commencement of the collaborative practice.
Author: Alabama Board of Nursing
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975, §34-21-84.
History: New Rule: Published November 26, 2025; effective January 10, 2026.