Chiropractic Permits & Licenses in Mobile, AL

Complete guide to permits and licenses required to start a chiropractic in Mobile, AL. Fees, renewal cycles, and agency contacts.

Alabama Annual Report and Business Privilege License (Franchise Tax)

Alabama Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $100.00-$100.00
Renewal: annual
Type: registration

All LLCs in Alabama must file an Annual Report and pay the Business Privilege License (franchise) tax. The tax is not based on income but on capital employed in the state. Due each year by April 15.

Certificate of Formation (LLC Registration)

Alabama Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $208.00-$208.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required for all LLCs. Annual Report also required ($100 fee, due by April 15 anniversary date).

Alabama State Chiropractic License

Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Required
Fee: $600.00-$600.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: license

Requires graduation from CCE-accredited chiropractic college, passage of NBCE Parts I-IV exams, and jurisprudence exam. All practicing chiropractors must hold this license.

Chiropractic Facility Permit

Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Required
Fee: $200.00-$200.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: license

Required for each physical location where chiropractic services are provided. Must be issued to a licensed chiropractor.

Assumed Name (DBA) Filing

Alabama Secretary of State
May Apply
Fee: $30.00-$30.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Filed with county Probate Judge ($10-30 county fee varies) and published in local newspaper. Not required if using exact LLC name.

Annual Report Filing

Alabama Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $100.00-$100.00
Renewal: annual
Type: registration

Required for all domestic LLCs to maintain good standing.

X-Rays Equipment Registration

Alabama Department of Public Health
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: annual
Type: registration

Required under Alabama Radiation Control regulations for chiropractic X-ray machines. Inspection may be required.

Alabama Sales Tax Permit

Alabama Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Chiropractic services themselves are not subject to Alabama sales tax. However, tangible personal property sold (e.g., orthotics, supplements) may be taxable. Registration required if such items are sold.

Alabama Withholding Tax Registration

Alabama Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Employers must register to withhold state income tax from employee wages. Applies to all employers in Alabama, regardless of business type.

Alabama Unemployment Insurance Tax Registration

Alabama Department of Labor
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Employers must register with the Alabama Department of Labor to pay unemployment insurance taxes. New employers typically pay a standard rate of 2.7% on the first $8,000 of each employee's wages annually.

City or County Business Privilege License (Local Tax)

Local Municipal Government (e.g., City of Birmingham, Montgomery, etc.)
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Most cities and counties in Alabama require a local business privilege license. Fees and requirements vary (e.g., Birmingham, Mobile, Huntsville). Chiropractic offices are generally subject to this tax if located within city limits.

Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

All LLCs are required to obtain an EIN, even without employees, for federal tax purposes. Chiropractic LLCs must have an EIN regardless of employee status.

Alabama State Income Tax Filing (Pass-Through Entity)

Alabama Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Most LLCs are pass-through entities; income flows to owners' personal tax returns. However, if the LLC elects to be taxed as a corporation, it must file Form PTE or Form 20C. Chiropractic LLCs typically do not pay entity-level income tax unless structured as a corporation.

County Business Privilege License

Alabama Department of Revenue (administers county licenses)
Required
Fee: $100.00-$100.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Required in all Alabama counties for LLCs; chiropractic offices classified under professional services. Check specific county revenue commissioner site (e.g., Jefferson County: https://www.jccal.org/Default.asp?ID=2482&pg=Business%20License)

Municipal Business License

City of [Specific City] (e.g., Birmingham, Mobile)
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$100.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Required if located in an incorporated city. Must specify business type (chiropractic). Example municipal code: Birmingham City Code Sec. 7-4-3. Replace with specific city .gov site.

Zoning Compliance / Certificate of Occupancy

Local County or City Planning/Zoning Department
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic offices typically allowed in commercial/medical zones (e.g., Birmingham Zoning Code Chapter 6). Verify with local zoning map/ordinance.

Building Permit

[County/City] Building Inspections Department
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required for any alterations to leased/purchased space per International Building Code (adopted locally).

Sign Permit

[County/City] Building or Sign Enforcement
May Apply
Fee: $25.00-$25.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Governed by local sign ordinances (e.g., size, lighting restrictions). Not required for window signs in some cities.

Fire Inspection / Certificate of Occupancy

City or County Fire Department
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$300.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Ensures compliance with fire codes (e.g., NFPA standards). Annual renewal in some jurisdictions for high-risk occupancies.

Alarm System Permit

[County/City] Police or Fire Department
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Many counties/cities require registration to reduce false alarms (e.g., Jefferson County Ordinance 1689).

Health Department Permit

County Health Department
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Generally NOT required for chiropractic offices (no food handling). May apply if hydrotherapy or other treatments; confirm with local health dept.

Home Occupation Permit

[County/City] Planning Department
May Apply
Fee: $25.00-$25.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Limited clients, no signage/employees in many codes; chiropractic may be restricted due to client visits.

Parking Compliance Review

City or County Engineering/Traffic Department
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic offices may trigger review if >X client visits/day per local traffic ordinances. Rare for small practices.

Workers' Compensation Insurance

Alabama Workers' Compensation Board
May Apply
Fee: $1000.00-$3000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Mandatory for all employers with five or more employees in Alabama (Ala. Code § 25-5-1). Chiropractic practices are considered employers under this statute. Sole proprietors without employees are exempt from carrying coverage but must formally acknowledge exemption if audited.

General Liability Insurance

None (not state-mandated)
Required
Fee: $500.00-$1500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not statutorily required by Alabama for all businesses, but strongly recommended and often contractually required by landlords, partners, or vendors. Covers slip-and-fall incidents, property damage, and other third-party claims.

Professional Liability / Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance

Not applicable
Required
Fee: $1000.00-$3000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Required by the Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners for all licensed chiropractors (ABCE Rule 690-10-.02). Minimum recommended coverage is $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate. Not filed with the state but proof may be requested during investigations or renewals.

Surety License Bond

Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Required
Fee: $100.00-$200.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

A $10,000 surety bond is required for initial licensure of a chiropractor in Alabama (ABCE Rule 690-10-.02(3)). This is a license bond, not a performance bond. It protects the public in cases of malpractice or fraud. The bond must be issued by a surety licensed in Alabama.

Commercial Auto Insurance

Alabama Department of Insurance
May Apply
Fee: $1200.00-$2500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Alabama requires all motor vehicles registered to a business to carry liability insurance meeting minimum limits: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage (Ala. Code § 32-7A-2). Applies if the chiropractic LLC owns or leases a vehicle.

Product Liability Insurance

None
May Apply
Fee: $1000.00-$3000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not legally required by Alabama law, but highly recommended for chiropractors who sell health-related products. May be required by distributors or third-party retailers. Falls under general product liability doctrine under Alabama common law.

Liquor Liability Insurance

Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board
May Apply
Fee: $500.00-$1500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Only applicable if the chiropractic business obtains a license to serve alcohol (e.g., at wellness events). As this is extremely rare for chiropractic practices, this requirement does not apply in typical operations. No chiropractic clinic in Alabama is expected to serve alcohol.

Business License or Privilege License (City/County)

Local Municipality or County Revenue Department
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$500.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Most Alabama cities and counties require a privilege license (business license). Fees based on gross receipts. Example: Birmingham requires annual filing by January 1. Verify with local revenue office.

Fire Inspection and Compliance

Local Fire Marshal (City or County)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$100.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Required under Alabama Fire Prevention Code (based on NFPA standards). Frequency varies by occupancy classification and local jurisdiction. Applies to all commercial medical offices.

Obtain Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

All LLCs classified as corporations or partnerships for federal tax purposes must have an EIN. Single-member LLCs with no employees may not need one unless they elect corporate taxation or have excise tax obligations. Chiropractic practices often hire staff, making EIN mandatory.

Federal Income and Self-Employment Tax Obligations for LLC

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

LLCs with more than one member are taxed as partnerships by default; single-member LLCs are disregarded entities unless they elect corporate taxation. Chiropractors must report net income on Schedule C and pay self-employment tax via Schedule SE. Income from chiropractic services is taxable under IRC Section 61.

OSHA General Duty Clause Compliance

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic offices must comply with OSHA’s General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act), which requires a workplace free from recognized hazards. Specific risks include ergonomic strain from adjusting tables, needlestick injuries (if using acupuncture), and bloodborne pathogens (if performing minor procedures). OSHA Form 300 recordkeeping is not required for businesses with 10 or fewer employees unless specifically notified.

ADA Title III Compliance for Public Accommodations

U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic clinics are considered 'public accommodations' under ADA Title III. Must ensure physical access (e.g., exam rooms, waiting areas), accessible medical equipment (e.g., adjustable-height tables), and effective communication (e.g., materials in accessible formats). DOJ enforces compliance; private lawsuits also permitted.

EPA Regulations for Medical Waste (if applicable)

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Most chiropractic practices do not generate hazardous waste unless they perform minor procedures involving blood or sharps. If so, must comply with EPA's Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) for proper storage, labeling, and disposal. Used needles must be in puncture-resistant containers and disposed via licensed medical waste hauler.

FTC Enforcement of Advertising Claims (Chiropractic Services)

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

FTC enforces against deceptive or unsubstantiated claims in advertising. Chiropractors must not make false claims about treating non-musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., asthma, ADHD). FTC has taken action against chiropractors for unsupported claims (e.g., FTC v. Lane, 2016). Advertising must be truthful and evidence-based.

DOL I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in coordination with DOL
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic practices with employees must complete Form I-9 to verify identity and work authorization. E-Verify is not mandatory federally unless state law requires it (Alabama does not currently mandate E-Verify for all employers).

DOL Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Compliance

https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic practices must comply with FLSA minimum wage ($7.25/hour), overtime (1.5x regular rate after 40 hours), and recordkeeping rules. Chiropractors are typically exempt professionals under FLSA Section 13(a)(1), but assistants and administrative staff may be non-exempt and entitled to overtime.

DOL Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Department of Labor (DOL)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic clinics with 50+ employees for at least 20 workweeks in current or prior year must provide eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying medical or family reasons. Most small chiropractic practices are exempt.

FDA Regulation of Chiropractic Devices

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Chiropractic adjusting tables are Class I medical devices and generally exempt from 510(k) premarket notification. However, if the practice modifies or markets such devices, FDA registration and listing may be required under 21 CFR Part 807. Most clinics using standard tables are not subject to active FDA licensing.

FTC Health Breach Notification Rule

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

The FTC Health Breach Notification Rule applies to vendors of personal health records. Most chiropractic practices are HIPAA-covered entities and thus subject to HHS rules instead. However, if a practice uses third-party apps not HIPAA-compliant, FTC rules may apply. Not typically applicable to standard HIPAA-compliant EHRs.

Annual Report Filing for Alabama LLC

Alabama Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $100.00-$100.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All domestic and foreign LLCs registered in Alabama must file an annual report. The report includes business address, registered agent, and management information. First report due the year following formation.

Alabama Chiropractic License Renewal

Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Required
Fee: $200.00-$200.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: license

All licensed chiropractors must renew their license biennially. Renewal requires completion of continuing education (see below).

Continuing Education Requirement for Chiropractors

Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Required
Renewal: biennial
Type: certificate

Includes 2 hours in ethics, jurisprudence, or risk management. At least 10 hours must be in-person or live webinar. Self-study allowed for up to 10 hours. Documentation must be retained for 4 years.

Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) Reporting

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Employers must file Form 941 quarterly and Form 940 annually. Even if no taxes are owed, a return may still be required.

Alabama Sales Tax License Renewal and Filing

Alabama Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: varies
Type: filing

Chiropractic services are generally exempt from Alabama sales tax, but tangible goods sold (e.g., braces, vitamins) may be taxable. Registration required if collecting sales tax.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Poster

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Employers must display the OSHA Job Safety and Health – It's the Law poster (available in English and Spanish) in a prominent location. Required even for single-employee businesses.

Alabama Minimum Wage Law Poster

Alabama Department of Labor
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Alabama does not have a state minimum wage law, so federal minimum wage applies. Employers must post the federal minimum wage poster provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Display of Chiropractic License

Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Rule 690-5-.05(1)(a) requires the current, unexpired license to be displayed in the office where patients can see it.

Federal Tax Filings (Income and Estimated Taxes)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: annual
Type: filing

LLCs taxed as disregarded entities file via owner's Form 1040. Multi-member LLCs taxed as partnerships file Form 1065. Estimated tax payments required if expected tax liability exceeds $1,000.

Alabama State Income Tax Filing (Pass-Through Entities)

Alabama Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: annual
Type: filing

Default is pass-through taxation to owners. However, if the LLC elects to pay tax at the entity level under Act 2021-181, Form PTE is due May 1. Otherwise, owners report income on personal returns (Form 40).

Record Retention for Chiropractic Records

Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Rule 690-5-.07 requires retention of patient records for a minimum of 5 years. Minor patients' records must be kept for 5 years after reaching age 19. Records must be available for inspection.

HIPAA Compliance and Documentation

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All chiropractic practices handling PHI must comply with HIPAA Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules. Requires annual risk assessments, staff training, business associate agreements, and documentation retention for 6 years.

Workers' Compensation Insurance Reporting

Alabama Workers' Compensation Board
May Apply
Renewal: annual
Type: certificate

Alabama law requires employers with five or more employees to carry workers' compensation insurance. Coverage must be continuous. Sole proprietors may elect coverage.

Step-by-Step Compliance Guide

  1. First, register your chiropractic business as an LLC with the Alabama Secretary of State, which requires a $208.00 Certificate of Formation fee.
  2. Next, obtain a County Business Privilege License through the Alabama Department of Revenue, with an annual fee of $100.00.
  3. You must acquire an Alabama State Chiropractic License from the Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners, currently costing $600.00 for initial licensure.
  4. A Chiropractic Facility Permit is also required by the Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners, with a $200.00 fee.
  5. Secure a Surety License Bond through the Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners, with fees ranging from $100.00 to $200.00.
  6. File an annual report with the Alabama Secretary of State, incurring a $100.00 fee each year to maintain good standing.
  7. Ensure compliance with FTC regulations regarding advertising claims for chiropractic services, which currently has no associated fee.
  8. Maintain biennial renewal of your Alabama State Chiropractic License and Facility Permit, with renewal fees of $200.00 and $200.00 respectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting to file the annual report with the Alabama Secretary of State can lead to penalties and loss of good standing.
  • Operating without a current County Business Privilege License will result in fines from the Alabama Department of Revenue.
  • Failing to renew your Alabama State Chiropractic License will prevent you from legally practicing in the state.
  • Neglecting to obtain a Chiropractic Facility Permit could result in sanctions from the Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
  • Assuming general liability insurance is not necessary, even though it isn't state-mandated, is a risk to your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of maintaining my chiropractic business licenses in Mobile, AL?

The costs vary, but you'll have annual fees for the County Business Privilege License ($100.00) and the Alabama Annual Report ($100.00). Biennial fees apply to the Alabama State Chiropractic License ($600.00 initial, $200.00 renewal) and the Chiropractic Facility Permit ($200.00 initial, $200.00 renewal).

Do I need to display my chiropractic license in Mobile, AL?

Yes, the Alabama Board of Chiropractic Examiners requires you to display your current chiropractic license in a conspicuous place at your practice location. There is no fee associated with this requirement, but failure to comply could result in penalties.

What is the Alabama Annual Report and Business Privilege License (Franchise Tax)?

This is a combined filing with the Alabama Secretary of State, requiring a $100.00 annual fee. It ensures your business is up-to-date with the state and maintains your legal standing to operate.

Is professional liability insurance required for chiropractors in Alabama?

While not mandated by the state, professional liability (Errors and Omissions) insurance is highly recommended to protect your practice from potential claims. Premiums typically range from $1000.00 to $3000.00, and it's a one-time fee.

What are my obligations regarding advertising claims as a chiropractor in Alabama?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires truthfulness and substantiation in all advertising claims related to your chiropractic services. While there's no initial fee, failing to comply with FTC regulations can result in significant penalties and legal action.

Need a personalized checklist?

Permit Finder asks follow-up questions to give you an exact list of permits.

Find Your Permits