Certification or licensing is required for residential care service providers in Alabama: 

• Mental health and substance use disorder programs require certification by the Alabama Department of Mental Health 

• Specialty Care Assisted Living Facilities must be licensed by the State Board of Health 

• Residential Child Care Facilities are licensed by the Department of Human Resources 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The responsible agencies for residential care services in Alabama include: 

• Alabama Department of Mental Health 

• Alabama Department of Public Health 

• Alabama Department of Human Resources 

5. Application Process 

The application process varies depending on the type of residential care service: 

• For mental health and substance use disorder programs, a multi-phase orientation and application process is required 

• Specialty Care Assisted Living Facilities must apply for licensure through the Alabama Department of Public Health 

• Residential Child Care Facilities apply through the Department of Human Resources 

6. Required Documentation 

While specific documentation requirements vary by service type, providers generally need to demonstrate: 

• Compliance with state standards 

• Staff qualifications and background checks 

• Adherence to service delivery protocols 

• Facility safety and fire prevention measures 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The certification and licensing processes can be lengthy. Specific timelines are not provided, but providers should be prepared for a potentially extended process. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

For mental health and substance use disorder programs, prospective providers must complete a Prospective Provider Orientation as the first step in the certification process. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

Training requirements vary by service type: 

• Mental health and substance use disorder programs require staff to meet certain training standards 

• Specialty Care Assisted Living Facilities have specific staffing and training requirements 

• Residential Child Care Facilities must ensure staff meet minimum standards for qualifications and training 

10. Additional Notes 

• Certification or licensing does not guarantee referrals, clients, or funding 

• Providers should assess the need for their services in their area 

• Facilities must comply with specific safety and accessibility standards 

• Background checks are required for staff in residential childcare facilities