Understanding SLP License Renewal in Louisiana: Key Steps to Avoid Delays
For speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists practicing in Louisiana, staying on top of your license renewal is crucial to maintaining your professional standing and continuing to serve your community effectively. The renewal process involves several important steps, and understanding these can help you avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
Annual Renewal Notices
Each year, renewal notices are emailed to licensees on April 15. It’s important to keep your contact information up-to-date with the board to ensure you receive these notifications. All licenses must be renewed by June 30 to avoid delinquent fees. If you were issued an initial license in April, May, or June, you are exempt from renewing in that fiscal year.
Online Renewals: A Streamlined Process
Renewals must be completed online. Once processed, a printable PDF ID card will be available on your dashboard. If your renewal requires supervision, expect a processing time of 3 to 4 weeks. Ensuring your renewal is completed promptly helps avoid disruptions in your ability to practice.
Continuing Education Requirements
To renew your license, you must participate in at least 10 clock hours of continuing professional education annually. Of these, 5 hours must be directly related to your practice, enhancing your knowledge and skills. The remaining hours can focus on related fields such as billing, ethics, or supervision. Audiologists who dispense hearing aids need at least 3 hours in hearing aid dispensing.
Dual licensees have a slightly higher requirement of 15 hours per year, with a minimum of 5 hours each in audiology and speech-language pathology. This ensures you stay updated in both fields, maintaining the highest standards of practice.
Random Audits
Each year, a percentage of licensees are randomly selected for audits. If selected, you will need to provide proof of your continuing education hours. Keeping accurate records of your completed education activities is essential to smoothly navigate an audit.
Inactive Status: A Flexible Option
If you’re retired or not practicing during the fiscal year, you can apply for inactive status. This allows you to maintain your license without fulfilling the continuing education requirements. However, should you decide to resume practice, you must complete 5 hours of continuing education for each year of inactivity (up to 25 hours total) and submit a letter requesting a change to active status.
Delinquent Renewals and Lapsed Licenses
If you miss the June 30 deadline, delinquent renewals are accepted until July 31, provided you pay the delinquent fee and submit the necessary documentation. A lapsed license requires additional steps to reinstate, including submitting proof of continuing education and paying both initial and delinquent fees. Avoiding a lapse is critical to ensuring you can continue to work without interruption.
By understanding and adhering to these renewal guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and uninterrupted practice. For more detailed information, please follow this link.
