The 1996–97 Algerian Championnat National was the 35th season of the Algerian Championnat National since its establishment in 1962.
A total of 16 teams competed, with USM Alger as the defending champions, The season began on October 10, 1996. and ended on June 26, 1997.
Teams promoted from Algerian Division 2 1996-1997 Teams relegated to Algerian Division 2 1997-1998