5 Key Insights on Licensing and Applications for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology in California

Are you a speech-language pathologist or audiologist in California? Navigating the licensing and application process can be daunting, but we're here to simplify it for you. In this blog, we provide essential insights into maintaining your license, updating personal information, and fulfilling continuing education requirements.

1. Keeping Your License Up-to-Date

Maintaining an active license is crucial for practicing legally. You can easily verify your license status through the online license verification database. This tool allows you to check when your license was issued, its expiration date, and whether any information is incorrect.

2. Updating Your Personal Information

If you need to change your address or name, specific steps must be followed:

• Change of Address: Download and complete the Notification of Address Change form and mail it to the Board.
• Change of Name: Download and complete the Notification of Name Change form, include documentation of the name change, and pay a $25 processing fee.

3. Application Process

Mail your application and supporting documents to:

For fingerprint submissions:

• In-State: Use the Live Scan Request form included in your application package. Find a live scan location here.
• Out-of-State: Submit two FD-258 fingerprint cards and a $49 processing fee. Download the FD-258 template here.

To check the status of your application, email the Board at speechandhearing@dca.ca.gov. Note that processing times can vary, especially during peak seasons (May-October).

4. Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

CE is mandatory for license renewal. Here are the key points:

• Renewal Period: The two-year period from expiration date to expiration date of your license. No grace period is provided.
• Record Maintenance: Keep records of your CE hours for at least two years beyond your renewal date.
• Submitting CE Hours: By submitting a completed renewal form, you certify completion of the CE requirement. You only need to submit evidence if requested by the Board.

5. Supervision and Employment Status

Supervision responsibilities and employment status can be complex. Here's what you need to know:

• Supervision: Specific responsibilities and limits are outlined in various sections of the California Code of Regulations. For instance, you may supervise up to three RPEs or two SLPAs.
• Employment Status: The Department of Industrial Relations oversees worker classifications. Visit their FAQ page for details on independent contractors versus employees.

Required Professional Experience (RPE) Temporary License Holders

The RPE license is valid for 12 months full-time (or 15 months in a school setting) and 20 months part-time (or 23 months in a school setting). Supervised experience less than 15 hours per week does not count towards the required weeks. For extensions, refer to CCR 1399.153.10 and download the Application for Extension of the Temporary RPE License form.

For more information, please follow this link.