SLP License Requirements
All 50 States, Verified

Initial licensing costs for Speech Language Pathologists range from $140 in Arkansas to $541 in West Virginia, with an average of $332. These fees typically include application fees, the Praxis exam ({{146}}), background checks, and initial license fees. Some states also require temporary or provisional licenses during the clinical fellowship period, which may add to the total cost.

All states require the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam (test code 5331) with a passing score of 162. This is a computer-delivered test with 132 selected-response questions that takes 2.5 hours to complete. The exam costs $146 and is paid directly to ETS (Educational Testing Service). Additionally, some states require a jurisprudence exam covering state laws and regulations.

Continuing education requirements vary significantly by state, ranging from 10 to 36 hours per renewal period, with an average of 21 hours. 2 states have no CE requirement for state licensure renewal. Most states accept ASHA-approved continuing education activities, and some have specific requirements for ethics training or cultural competency.

0 states accept out-of-state Speech Language Pathologist licenses through endorsement or reciprocity. Additionally, many states participate in the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC), which allows licensed practitioners to provide services across state lines. Transfer requirements typically include verification of your current license, background checks, and proof of meeting educational and examination standards.

All states require a N/A from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of ASHA. Programs must include comprehensive coursework covering articulation and phonology, language disorders, fluency disorders, voice and resonance disorders, swallowing disorders, and other core areas. Additionally, all programs require supervised clinical practicum hours, typically ranging from 300-400 hours depending on the state.

The licensing process typically takes several weeks to a few months after completing your master's degree and clinical fellowship year. You must first pass the Praxis exam, then submit your application with transcripts, background check, and supporting documentation. Many states offer temporary or provisional licenses that allow you to begin working during your clinical fellowship year while completing full licensure requirements.

51 out of 51 jurisdictions (50 states plus DC) require licensure to practice as a Speech Language Pathologist. This makes SLP one of the most consistently regulated healthcare professions across the United States. Even in states with licensure requirements, there may be exemptions for certain practice settings such as schools, where practitioners might work under different certification requirements.