Ala. Code § 45-35A-51.16
Whenever in the opinion of the director it is impossible within a reasonable time to certify eligible persons for appointment to a vacancy in the classified service, the appointing authority may nominate a person for the vacancy to the director. If such nominee is found by the director to have had experience and training which appear to qualify him or her for the position, the director may authorize the appointment of such person to such vacancy only until an appropriate eligible register can be established and an appointment made therefrom. Such provisional appointments shall be for a period of 90 days and, with the approval of the director, may be extended for an additional 90 days, however, in no event shall a provisional appointment be made for a period aggregating more than 180 days.
Ala. Code § 45-35A-51.16 (1975)