How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Alabama in 2025
To become a licensed psychologist in Alabama, you must earn a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited or Board-approved psychology program, complete an APA-accredited or Board-approved internship, and pass both the EPPP examination and Alabama's Professional Standards Examination. Unlike many states, Alabama does not require postdoctoral supervised experience. The complete process typically takes 8-12 years, with licensed psychologists earning a median salary of $84,360 annually.
Psychology represents a growing professional field in Alabama, with consistent demand for qualified mental health professionals across the state. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% growth for clinical and counseling psychologist positions nationally through 2034, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. If you're considering a career as a licensed psychologist in Alabama, you'll need to navigate specific educational, training, and examination requirements established by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the Alabama psychology licensure process, from selecting the right doctoral program to passing your licensing examinations and launching your career. Whether you're just starting your educational journey or you're a graduate student planning your path to licensure, understanding these requirements will help you make informed decisions about your professional future.
Education Requirements for Alabama Psychology Licensure
The foundation of psychology licensure in Alabama is a doctoral degree from an accredited institution. According to Alabama Code 1975 §34-26-41, applicants must hold a doctoral degree from a department or school of psychology from an educational institution accredited and recognized by national and regional accrediting agencies as maintaining satisfactory standards.
Doctoral Degree Requirements
Your doctoral program must meet specific organizational and structural criteria to qualify for Alabama licensure. The Alabama Board recognizes programs that are fully or provisionally accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) at the time of graduation. If you attend an APA-accredited program, you automatically meet the Board's educational requirements.
For programs without APA accreditation, the Board evaluates whether the program meets these organizational standards:
- The institution must be accredited by a nationally recognized regional accrediting body in the United States
- For Canadian applicants, the institution must be publicly recognized by Universities Canada as a member in good standing
- The department or school must have clearly stated its intent to educate and train psychologists in institutional catalogs and brochures
- The program must be a recognizable, coherent organizational entity within the institution
- An identifiable full-time psychology faculty must include licensed psychologists, with a psychologist responsible for the curriculum
- The program must have an identifiable body of students regularly matriculating in the doctoral degree program
Students interested in pursuing a career in psychology should research psychology degree programs in Alabama early in their academic planning to ensure they're on the right educational path.
Timeline Requirements
Your doctoral program must encompass a minimum of three academic years of full-time graduate study, with each academic year consisting of at least nine months. Additionally:
- At least two years of full-time graduate study must be completed at the institution granting the doctoral degree
- At least one year must be in full-time residence at the degree-granting institution
- Full-time residence means being physically present on campus with access to core psychology faculty and other matriculated students
The residence requirement ensures proper acculturation and socialization in the science and practice of psychology through direct interaction with faculty and fellow students. While the Board allows flexibility for individual students with particular needs, the general residency requirement remains essential to the program's integrity.
Curriculum and Coursework Requirements
Alabama requires a comprehensive curriculum totaling at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of graduate-level coursework in psychology, excluding internship hours. This coursework must be programmatic and sequential, providing both breadth and depth in psychological knowledge.
Core Coursework (24 Semester Hours Minimum)
Your program must include the following five required core courses:
- Statistics - Quantitative methods and data analysis
- Ethics and Professional Standards - Professional conduct and ethical decision-making
- Experimental Design/Research Methods - Scientific methodology in psychology
- Theory of Psychological Measurement - Assessment principles and psychometrics
- History and Systems of Psychology - Evolution of psychological thought and theory
If your program didn't include a specific ethics course, you must demonstrate coverage of this material through other coursework.
Additionally, you need at least one core course (minimum 3 semester or 4.5 quarter hours) in each of these four foundational areas:
- Biological Bases of Behavior - Examples include comparative psychology, physiological psychology, perception/sensation, psychopharmacology, or neuropsychology
- Cognitive-Affective Bases of Behavior - Examples include cognitive psychology, learning, memory, motivation, and emotion
- Social Bases of Behavior - Examples include cultural/ethnic/sex role processes, group processes, organizational theory, or social psychology
- Individual Behavior - Examples include abnormal psychology/psychopathology, developmental psychology, individual differences, or personality theory
Specialty and Elective Courses (36 Semester Hours Minimum)
Beyond core requirements, you need an additional 36 semester hours (54 quarter hours) in psychology specialty and elective courses. These courses should align with your intended area of specialization and cannot duplicate courses already counted toward core requirements.
For untitled seminars, independent studies, or special problems courses, you must provide detailed documentation, including the instructor's name, required texts, and course content. The Board may request verification from university faculty to confirm course content meets their standards.
Course Deficiency Remediation
If you're missing up to two required courses (maximum 6 semester or 9 quarter hours), you can complete these courses from a psychology department that grants doctoral degrees, with prior Board approval. You must earn a grade of B or better, and courses must be completed within one year of the Board's approval letter.
Internship Training Requirements
All applicants for Alabama psychology licensure must successfully complete an internship training program. The Alabama Board accepts internships accredited by the American Psychological Association or the Canadian Psychological Association as automatically meeting their requirements.
APA-Accredited Internships
If you complete an APA-accredited internship, you've satisfied Alabama's internship requirements. APA-accredited programs undergo rigorous review to ensure they meet standards for organized training, qualified supervision, and comprehensive clinical experience.
Alabama offers several APA-accredited internship programs, including:
University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology
SPC4, 1530 3rd Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294-0018
Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System
Psychology Service
2400 Hospital Road
Tuskegee, AL 36083
Non-APA Accredited Internships
Internships without APA or CPA accreditation may be acceptable if they meet rigorous criteria demonstrating they're organized training programs rather than supervised work experiences. Key requirements include:
- A clearly designated staff psychologist responsible for training program integrity who is actively licensed by a state or provincial board
- At least two licensed psychologists on staff as supervisors
- Supervision provided by staff members or affiliates who carry clinical responsibility for supervised cases
- At least half of the internship supervision is provided by one or more psychologists
- Training in a range of assessment and treatment activities with direct client contact
- At least 25% of trainee time in direct client contact
- Minimum two hours per week of formal, face-to-face individual supervision
- At least two additional hours per week in learning activities such as case conferences, seminars, co-therapy, or group supervision
- Post-clerkship, post-practicum, and post-externship level training
- Minimum of two interns at the training site during your training period
- Equivalent of one year full-time training completed in no less than 11 months and no more than 24 consecutive months
If you use two internship sites to fulfill requirements, each site must meet all criteria, and each must provide at least 20 hours per week of training. You'll need references from internship supervisors or directors at each site.
Alabama's Unique Advantage: No Postdoctoral Supervision Required
Unlike many states that require one to two years of postdoctoral supervised experience, Alabama allows qualified candidates to apply for full licensure immediately after completing their doctoral degree and approved internship. According to Alabama Administrative Code Chapter 750-X-2 and confirmed by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology, there are no postdoctoral supervision hour requirements for licensure.
This policy can accelerate your entry into independent practice by 12-24 months compared to states with postdoctoral requirements, allowing you to begin your career and earn at full licensed psychologist rates sooner.
However, you must still complete all other requirements, including passing both required examinations and meeting the Board's standards for professional references and background checks.
License Examinations
Alabama requires candidates to pass two examinations before licensure: the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and Alabama's state-specific Professional Standards Examination (PSE).
Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
The EPPP is a standardized examination administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) and delivered through Pearson VUE testing centers. This computer-based examination measures competency in core areas of psychology practice.
EPPP Examination Details:
| Examination Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 225 multiple-choice items |
| Scored Questions | 175 items count toward your score |
| Pretest Items | 50 unscored experimental items |
| Time Allowed | 4 hours and 15 minutes |
| Passing Score | 500 (ASPPB recommended standard) |
| EPPP Fee | $600 (paid to ASPPB) |
| Test Administration Fee | Additional fee paid to Pearson VUE |
The EPPP covers eight content areas reflecting the breadth of psychology knowledge required for competent practice:
- Biological Bases of Behavior
- Cognitive-Affective Bases of Behavior
- Social and Cultural Bases of Behavior
- Growth and Lifespan Development
- Assessment and Diagnosis
- Treatment, Intervention, Prevention, and Supervision
- Research Methods and Statistics
- Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues
You cannot schedule your EPPP examination until the Alabama Board has reviewed your credentials and determined you're eligible. The Board notifies candidates of examination eligibility after reviewing completed application files at their regular meetings.
Professional Standards Examination (PSE)
All candidates must also pass Alabama's Professional Standards Examination, a state-specific test covering Alabama psychology law and the APA's Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.
PSE Examination Details:
- Format: 42 multiple-choice questions
- Time: Untimed (typically completed in less than one hour)
- Passing Score: 80% correct (34 of 42 questions)
- Cost: $50 (paid when you sit for the exam)
- Location: Alabama Board office in Montgomery
- Scheduling: Available Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
After the Board admits you to the PSE based on your credentials review, you can contact the Board office to schedule your examination appointment. You can obtain the APA's Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Ethics free from the American Psychological Association website.
Re-examination Policy
If you don't pass either examination on your first attempt, you must wait a mandatory six months before retaking it. If you successfully complete re-examination within one year after the six-month waiting period, no new licensure application or application fee is required, though you must pay the examination fee again.
You can sit twice for an examination under a current application. If your second attempt is unsuccessful, you must submit a new application for licensure.
Application Process and Requirements
Applying for Alabama psychology licensure involves submitting a comprehensive application package with supporting documentation. The process typically takes three to four months from when the Board receives your complete application to final licensure.
Required Application Materials
Submit the following items to the Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology:
- Completed and notarized licensure application form
- Application fee: $400 (check, cashier's check, or money order payable to Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology)
- Recent passport-quality photograph
- Official transcripts: From all institutions attended, beginning with your bachelor's degree, sent directly from registrars to the Board
- Degree validation form: Completed by the registrar or graduate school director of your doctoral institution
- Four professional references: From psychologists who can assess your training, supervision, ethical conduct, and professional competence
- Internship documentation form: Signed by both you and the director of internship training (separate forms required if you used two sites)
- Verification of other state licenses: If you hold or have held licenses in other jurisdictions
- Criminal background check: Two completed fingerprint cards, executed criminal history release, and $38.25 fee payable to ALEA
- Citizenship documentation: Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence (driver's license, birth certificate, passport, or other approved documents)
Professional References
Your four references must come from psychologists, with at least three holding doctoral-level licenses. Reference providers should have sufficient familiarity with your education, abilities, and professional conduct to make informed assessments.
Specific reference requirements include:
- One reference from your dissertation advisor, department chair, or program director
- One reference from your pre-doctoral internship supervisor or director of internship training
- If you used two internship sites, one reference from a supervisor or director at each site
- For applicants with professional experience, one reference from a supervisor or licensed colleague
Current Alabama Board members cannot serve as references for applicants.
Application Review Timeline
The Alabama Board meets on the second Friday of odd-numbered months (January, March, May, July, September, November). Application cutoff dates are the first day of these odd-numbered months.
Your application file must be complete by the cutoff date to be reviewed at the next Board meeting. Complete means the Board has received all required documentation, including transcripts, reference forms, degree validation, and any other pertinent information.
After the Board reviews your credentials, you'll receive written notification of their decision, including admission to examinations if your credentials are approved.
Important Application Cautions
Alabama does not grant temporary licensure or allow practice before full licensure. You cannot represent yourself as a psychologist (on office doors, stationery, advertising, etc.) until the Board grants your license. Doing so constitutes a Class B misdemeanor and will result in suspension of your application review pending resolution of the violation.
Apply well in advance of anticipated employment or professional placement. Don't imply to employers that licensure will be awarded automatically or by a specific date.
Application Fees and Costs
| Fee Type | Amount | Payable To |
|---|---|---|
| Application Processing Fee | $400 | Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology |
| EPPP Examination Fee | $600 | ASPPB |
| EPPP Test Administration | Varies | Pearson VUE |
| Professional Standards Exam | $50 | Alabama Board (when taking exam) |
| Criminal Background Check | $38.25 | Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) |
| Total Initial Licensure Cost | ~$1,088+ | Multiple agencies |
Areas of Specialization
When applying for licensure, you must designate an area of specialization, identifying the area in which you intend to practice. The Alabama Board recognizes four primary specializations:
Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists focus on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders across diverse populations. This specialization requires coursework and training emphasizing abnormal behavior, psychological assessment, and evidence-based interventions. Learn more about the clinical psychology specialization and career pathways.
Required coursework for clinical specialization includes:
- Abnormal Behavior/Psychopathology
- Intellectual Assessment
- Personality Assessment
- Theory of Intervention and Treatment of Mental Disorders
- Practicum in Psychological Assessment
- Practicum in Psychological Intervention
- Advanced Clinical Electives (minimum 27 semester or 40 quarter hours total)
Your internship must have emphasized the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders.
Counseling Psychology
Counseling psychologists apply psychological principles to facilitate effective functioning during lifespan development. This specialization emphasizes normal development, prevention, and helping individuals navigate life transitions and challenges.
Required coursework for counseling specialization includes:
- Theory of Counseling/Psychotherapy
- Assessment of Aptitude and Abilities and/or Personality
- Human Adjustment or Development, or Abnormal Behavior
- Vocational Assessment
- Practicum in Assessment
- Practicum in Intervention
- Advanced Electives in Counseling Psychology (minimum 27 semester or 40 quarter hours total)
School Psychology
School psychologists work within educational settings to address learning problems, developmental issues, and the intersection of mental health and academic achievement. This specialization prepares you to work in K-12 schools, although Board licensure allows broader practice.
Note that individuals whose practice is confined solely to schools may apply for school certification through the Alabama State Department of Education rather than Board licensure. However, the Board does license school psychologists who wish to maintain broader practice privileges.
Required coursework for school specialization includes:
- Intellectual Assessment
- Assessment of Educational Abilities and Achievement
- Theory of Intervention in Educational Settings
- Practicum in School Psychology
- Child/Developmental Psychology
- Consultation and Program Planning
- Electives in School Psychology (minimum 24 semester or 36 quarter hours total)
School psychology internships must be at least 10 months (compared to 11 months for clinical and counseling).
Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Industrial/organizational (I-O) psychologists apply psychological principles to workplace issues, organizational behavior, human resources, and employee selection and development.
Required coursework for I-O specialization includes:
- Assessment and Measurement in Industrial/Organizational (Organizational Behavior)
- Theory of Industrial/Organizational Psychology
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
- Electives from areas such as Consultation, Management, Human Factors, Motivation, Applied Research, Training and Development (minimum 24 semester or 36 quarter hours total)
- Supervised practicum, field placement, or internship in I-O psychology
Changing Specializations
If you want to add or alter your specialization areas after licensure, you must apply to the Board. Significant changes in specialization areas should be accomplished through enrollment and satisfactory completion of an appropriate doctoral training program and relevant internship, where applicable. Continuing education alone is not sufficient to substantiate a change in specialization area.
Salary and Career Outlook in Alabama
Psychology offers strong earning potential and excellent career prospects in Alabama. Licensed psychologists earn competitive salaries while enjoying diverse practice opportunities across the state.
Alabama Psychologist Salaries (2024 Data)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical and counseling psychologists in Alabama earn a median annual salary of approximately $84,360 as of May 2024. However, earnings vary significantly based on experience, specialization, practice setting, and geographic location within the state.
| Salary Percentile | Annual Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,060 | Entry-level or less experienced positions |
| 25th Percentile | $40,280 | Early career positions |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $84,360 | Mid-career, typical experience |
| 75th Percentile | $108,910 | Experienced professionals |
| 90th Percentile | $167,250+ | Highly experienced, specialized, or private practice |
Salary by Alabama Metropolitan Area
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential within Alabama. Major metropolitan areas typically offer higher salaries, though cost-of-living adjustments may affect real purchasing power.
| Metropolitan Area | Average Annual Salary | Cost-of-Living Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham-Hoover | $85,000 - $95,000 | ~$92,000 |
| Huntsville | $77,500 - $85,000 | ~$84,000 |
| Montgomery | $73,090 - $80,000 | ~$80,500 |
| Mobile | $70,000 - $78,000 | ~$76,000 |
| Tuscaloosa | $73,210 - $80,000 | ~$82,000 |
Salary by Practice Setting
Where you choose to practice significantly affects your earning potential:
- Private Practice: $90,000 - $150,000+ (highly variable based on client volume and specialization)
- Hospitals and Healthcare Systems: $75,000 - $110,000
- Outpatient Mental Health Centers: $65,000 - $85,000
- Government Agencies: $70,000 - $95,000
- Universities and Colleges: $60,000 - $90,000 (academic year, excluding summer income)
- K-12 Schools: $55,000 - $75,000 (school year schedule)
- Veterans Affairs: $80,000 - $120,000
National Comparison
Alabama psychologist salaries are competitive with national averages. The national median for clinical and counseling psychologists ranges from $96,100 to $106,600, depending on the specific BLS category, making Alabama's median of $84,360 approximately 85-88% of the national average. However, Alabama's lower cost of living often provides comparable or superior purchasing power compared to higher-salary states.
Career Growth and Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% job growth for clinical and counseling psychologists nationally between 2024 and 2034, which is much faster than the 4% average for all occupations. This growth reflects several trends:
- Decreasing stigma around mental health treatment is increasing demand for services
- Growing recognition of psychology's role in treating chronic health conditions
- Increased insurance coverage for mental health services due to parity laws
- An aging population requiring specialized geropsychology services
- Integration of behavioral health into primary care settings
- Expansion of telehealth is creating new service delivery models
Alabama faces particular demand for psychologists in rural and underserved areas, where mental health professional shortages create excellent opportunities for new practitioners willing to serve these communities.
License Renewal and Continuing Education
Alabama psychology licenses must be renewed annually to maintain active status.
Annual Renewal Requirements
- Renewal Deadline: October 15 each year
- Annual License Renewal Fee: $230
- Continuing Education Fee: $50
- Late Penalty: $20 per month (accumulative for each month or fraction thereof)
The Board sends renewal notices to all licensees on August 15 each year. Failure to renew by October 15 results in a lapsed license, prohibiting you from continuing to practice unless you work in an exempt setting (such as state agencies).
Continuing Education Requirements
Licensed psychologists must complete 20 hours of continuing education annually. You must demonstrate compliance with continuing education requirements at the time of license renewal.
The Board may prorate continuing education requirements based on your initial licensure date. Specific continuing education requirements and approved provider information will be provided when you receive your initial license.
Inactive Status
If you're not actively practicing, you can request inactive status before your renewal date. The inactive status fee is $50 annually. Psychologists on inactive status cannot practice psychology in Alabama unless employed in an exempt setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Alabama?
The complete process typically takes 8-12 years after high school. This includes 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 4-7 years for a doctoral program (including dissertation), and the internship year (which may be completed during the doctoral program). Doctoral program completion times vary significantly based on program structure, research requirements, and individual circumstances. Alabama doesn't require postdoctoral supervised hours, potentially saving 1-2 years compared to other states. After completing education and training, the application and examination process takes an additional 3-6 months.
Does Alabama require postdoctoral supervised experience?
No. According to Alabama Administrative Code Chapter 750-X-2 and confirmed by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology, Alabama does not require postdoctoral supervised experience hours. Candidates can apply for full licensure immediately after completing their doctoral degree and approved internship, provided they meet all other requirements, including passing both examinations.
Can I get licensed in Alabama with a master's degree in psychology?
No. Alabama requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) for psychology licensure. However, master's-level practitioners can pursue other mental health licenses in Alabama, such as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alabama, which requires a master's degree in counseling.
What's the difference between a psychologist and other mental health professionals in Alabama?
In Alabama, "psychologist" is a protected title requiring doctoral-level education and Board licensure. Other mental health professionals include licensed professional counselors (master's level), licensed marriage and family therapists (master's level), and licensed clinical social workers (master's or doctoral level). Psychologists receive more extensive training in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and research methodology compared to master's-level practitioners.
Does Alabama accept licenses from other states?
Alabama reviews out-of-state licenses but doesn't have formal reciprocity agreements. If you're licensed in another state, you must still meet Alabama's education, internship, and examination requirements. However, if you're licensed in at least two states and have passed a recognized national examination (EPPP), you may qualify for certain exemptions. You'll still need to pass Alabama's Professional Standards Examination covering state law and ethics.
How much does the EPPP cost, and what's the passing score?
The EPPP examination fee is $600, paid to ASPPB. You'll also pay an additional test administration fee to Pearson VUE when scheduling your exam. Alabama requires a passing score of 500 on the EPPP, which is the ASPPB-recommended standard. The examination contains 225 multiple-choice questions, and you have 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete it.
Can I practice psychology in Alabama before I'm licensed?
No. Alabama does not grant temporary or provisional licenses. You cannot practice psychology or represent yourself as a psychologist in any way before receiving your full license. This includes using the title on business cards, office doors, or advertising. Practicing without a license is a Class B misdemeanor and will result in suspension of your application review.
What if I fail the EPPP or PSE examination?
You must wait six months before retaking either examination. If you successfully pass the re-examination within one year after the waiting period, you don't need to submit a new application or pay another application fee, though you must pay the examination fee again. You can attempt each examination twice under a single application. If you don't pass after two attempts, you must submit an entirely new application.
How do I find an APA-accredited doctoral program?
The American Psychological Association maintains a searchable database of accredited programs on its website. You can also research psychology degree programs in Alabama and verify their accreditation status. Programs must be accredited at the time you graduate for automatic acceptance by the Alabama Board.
Can I complete my degree online?
The Alabama Board requires at least one year of full-time residence at your degree-granting institution, which necessitates physical presence on campus for face-to-face interaction with faculty and fellow students. While some coursework may be completed online, purely online doctoral programs typically don't meet Alabama's residency requirement. Check with the Board before enrolling in any program with substantial online components.
What's the difference between a PhD and PsyD in psychology?
Both degrees qualify for Alabama licensure. PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) programs emphasize research and typically require a dissertation based on original research. PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) programs emphasize clinical practice and may require a clinical dissertation or doctoral project instead of traditional research. PhD programs often offer more funding opportunities through teaching and research assistantships, while PsyD programs may have higher tuition costs but shorter completion times.
How does Alabama psychology licensure compare to counseling or social work licensing?
Psychology licensure requires doctoral-level education and provides the broadest scope of practice, including comprehensive psychological assessment and diagnosis. Counselor licensure requires a master's degree and focuses on counseling interventions. Social work licensure (LCSW) also requires a master's degree and emphasizes social systems and case management alongside therapy. If you're interested in master 's-level practice, research counselor licensing in Alabama, or social work pathways.
What resources are available for exam preparation?
ASPPB offers official EPPP study materials through their website. Many commercial test preparation companies also offer EPPP review courses, practice exams, and study guides. Your doctoral program may offer EPPP preparation seminars. For the Alabama PSE, thoroughly review Alabama psychology law (provided with your application) and the current APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.
Can I practice telepsychology across state lines from Alabama?
Alabama participates in PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact), which allows licensed psychologists to provide telepsychology services to clients in other PSYPACT states without obtaining multiple licenses. You must apply for PSYPACT authority through the ASPPB and pay additional fees. PSYPACT doesn't apply to in-person practice in other states, which still requires full licensure in those jurisdictions.
Compare Alabama Requirements to Other States
Licensing requirements vary significantly across states. If you're considering practicing in multiple states or want to understand how Alabama compares to other jurisdictions, you can compare requirements in other states to make informed decisions about your educational path and career planning.
Alabama's lack of postdoctoral supervision requirements makes it particularly attractive for new graduates seeking to enter independent practice quickly. However, if you plan to seek licensure in multiple states, ensure your education and training meet the more stringent requirements of the states you may practice in later.
Key Takeaways
- Doctoral degree required: You must earn a PhD or PsyD from an APA-accredited or Board-approved program, including 60 semester hours of psychology coursework.
- No postdoctoral supervision: Alabama allows immediate licensure after completing your doctoral degree and an approved internship, potentially saving 1-2 years compared to other states.
- Two examinations required: You must pass both the national EPPP examination (score of 500 required) and Alabama's Professional Standards Examination (80% required).
- Application timeline: Submit your complete application by the first of odd-numbered months for review at the next Board meeting. The entire process typically takes 3-4 months after application submission.
- Competitive salaries: Licensed psychologists in Alabama earn a median salary of $84,360, with experienced professionals and those in private practice earning significantly more.
- Strong career growth: The field is projected to grow 11% through 2034, much faster than average, with particular demand in rural and underserved areas.
- Choose your specialization: Alabama recognizes four specializations (clinical, counseling, school, and I-O), each with specific coursework and training requirements.
- Annual renewal required: Maintain your license with annual renewal by October 15, including 20 hours of continuing education and $280 in fees.
- Plan ahead: Apply well before anticipated employment. Alabama doesn't grant temporary licenses, and practicing before licensure is illegal.
- Total investment: Expect initial licensure costs around $1,088+ for applications, examinations, and background checks, plus 8-12 years of education and training.
Ready to Start Your Psychology Career in Alabama?
Explore APA-accredited doctoral programs in Alabama and nationwide that meet licensure requirements. Compare programs, specializations, and find the right fit for your career goals.
Related Alabama Mental Health Licenses
If you're interested in mental health careers but want to explore alternatives to doctoral-level psychology, Alabama offers several other licensing pathways:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) - Master's degree pathway focusing on counseling interventions
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) - Master's degree specializing in relational and systemic therapy
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) - Master's or doctoral degree emphasizing social systems and case management
Each license offers unique practice opportunities and requires different educational investments, allowing you to choose the path that best aligns with your interests, timeline, and career goals.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, Psychologists-All Other are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
