Alabama § 34-21-23 - Renewal of License; Continuing Education.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 34-21-23 — Renewal of License; Continuing Education., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 34-21-23. Renewal of License; Continuing Education.
(a) The license of every professional nurse licensed under the provisions of this chapter shall be renewed biennially, and the term of the license shall be two years. Applicants for renewal shall apply for and complete the renewal application and forward same to the board, along with the renewal fee, during the renewal period that shall from time to time be specified by the board. The board shall examine and verify the accuracy of the application and, if in order, shall issue a renewal receipt for a license period of two years.
(b) The license of every practical nurse licensed as a licensed practical nurse under the provisions of the chapter shall be renewed biennially, and the term of the license shall be two years. Applicants for renewal shall apply for and complete the renewal application and forward same to the board, along with the renewal fee, during the renewal period that shall from time to time be specified by the board. The board shall examine and verify the accuracy of the application and, if in order, shall issue a renewal receipt for a license period of two years.
(c) Any person practicing nursing who allows his or her license to lapse by failing to renew, as hereinafter provided, may be reinstated and licensed by the board upon satisfactory explanation of such failure and upon payment of the required fees. The board is hereby authorized under its rule-making powers to provide for an inactive license status for licensees under this chapter and to collect such fees as the board determines for such inactive license.
(d) It shall be unlawful for any person to practice professional nursing in this state during the time his or her license to practice has lapsed, and such person shall be subject to the penalties of this chapter. It shall be unlawful for any person to practice practical nursing in this state during the time his or her license so to practice has lapsed, and such person shall be subject to the penalties of this chapter.
(e) A nurse not actively practicing professional nursing in Alabama, or not actively practicing practical nursing in Alabama, shall not be required to renew his or her license; but such person shall, prior to resuming the practice of professional nursing, or the practice of practical nursing, submit evidence of continued competence satisfactory to the board and secure a renewal license before reengaging in the active practice of professional nursing or in the active practice of practical nursing, as the case may be.
(f) The board shall adopt a continuing education program by October 1, 1991. After that date, successful completion of the continuing education requirements shall be a requisite for license renewal.
(g) Provided, however, under the provisions of this section, continuing education shall not result in a passing or failing grade.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 34-21-23
What does Code of Alabama § 34-21-23 cover?
Section 34-21-23 ("Renewal of License; Continuing Education.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 34-21-23?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 34-21-23" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 34-21-23 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.