Certifications & licenses in Alabama
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in AL. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Alabama
Licensing landscape in Alabama
As of June 1, 2024, the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy was dissolved and replaced by the new Alabama Massage Therapy Licensing Board.
Alabama Massage Therapy Licensing Board
For 2025 renewals, cosmetologists are not required to complete continuing education, but a license expired over 3 years requires retaking the practical exam.
Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
The performance bond requirement for HVAC contractors increased to $20,000 on January 1, 2024, and is required for the 2025 license renewal.
Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors
As of January 2025, all initial EMT license applications must be submitted as a typed and signed paper application, and Alabama does not issue initial Intermediate EMT licenses.
Alabama Department of Public Health
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in Alabama
A $50,000 salary in Alabama has roughly the purchasing power of a $56,250 salary in an average-cost-of-living state.
Regional comparison: Alabama vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs AL |
|---|---|---|
| AL | $34,140 | — |
| TN | $37,990 | +11% vs AL |
| GA | $37,680 | +10% vs AL |
| FL | $37,510 | +10% vs AL |
| MS | $31,520 | -8% vs AL |
| State | Required training hours | vs AL |
|---|---|---|
| AL | 650 hours | — |
| TN | 650 hours | 0 hours |
| GA | 500 hours | -150 hours |
| FL | 500 hours | -150 hours |
| MS | 700 hours | +50 hours |
Sources (3)
Healthcare in Alabama
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $34,140 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $39,080 |
| EMT | Required | $37,810 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $57,030 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $36,100 |
| Medical Coder | No | $43,810 |
| Paramedic | Required | $48,540 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $39,030 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $37,220 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $60,700 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $77,080 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $66,150 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $49,420 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $61,160 |
Skilled Trades in Alabama
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $52,120 |
| Electrician | Required | $55,690 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $48,370 |
| Plumber | Required | $58,670 |
| Welder | No | $48,490 |
Personal Care & Wellness in Alabama
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $39,180 |
| Barber | Required | $29,120 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $29,150 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $48,930 |
Professional & Business in Alabama
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $74,880 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $47,260 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $65,510 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $60,890 |