Alabama CLE Requirements: Complete Guide for Attorneys

1. Annual Credit Requirements

  • Alabama attorneys must complete 12 CLE credit hours each calendar year (January 1–December 31)

  • At least 1 hour must be in Ethics or Professionalism

2. Live vs. On-Demand Learning

  • A minimum of 6 hours must be earned through live programming, including in-person or live webinars

  • Up to 6 hours may be obtained via on-demand courses

3. Mandatory Professionalism Seminar

  • Newly admitted attorneys must complete a 3-hour professionalism course during their first year

  • This professionalism credit counts toward your 12-hour total

4. Deadlines & Reporting

  • All credit must be earned by December 31 each year

  • Reporting deadline is February 15 of the following year

  • If you're noncompliant, you have until Feb 15 to submit a deficiency plan and a $100 late fee

5. Carryover Policy

  • You may carry over up to 12 unused credits, including 1 Ethics credit, into the next year

6. Exemptions & Hardships

  • New admittees are exempt for the remainder of the admission year, with the opportunity to carry forward credits earned that year

  • Waivers may be granted for hardship or public office, upon written request

  • Out-of-state attorneys practicing primarily elsewhere may request an exemption

Why These Rules Matter

Alabama's CLE system ensures ongoing legal education and ethical awareness. With live learning, professionalism, and carryovers balanced, it supports both rigorous and flexible compliance suited to modern legal practice.

Pro Tips for Compliance

  1. Monitor your transcript via ASB’s MyDashboard—especially live vs. on-demand tallies.

  2. Plan your Ethics hour early with a live or interactive course.

  3. New admittees: Schedule your 3-hour professionalism seminar within your first year.

  4. Carry over unused credits, up to 12 hours, including Ethics.

  5. Address noncompliance quickly: filing a plan and fee by Feb 15 avoids harsher penalties.

  6. Check for exemptions if you've joined public office, hit age 65, or primarily practice elsewhere.

Browse our Alabama CLE packages and courses today!

Author’s Note: Content current as of June 2025. Always check Alabama State Bar CLE rules and regulations for updates.