Are you an aspiring Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) or Audiologist looking to practice in New Jersey? Navigating the licensing requirements can be daunting, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand what you need to do to get licensed in the Garden State.
Initial Licensure
To get started, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:
- Earn a master’s or doctoral degree in audiology or speech-language pathology from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation or the Accreditation Council for Audiology Education.
- Complete a nine-month clinical internship under a licensed supervisor who holds an ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) or equivalent.
- Pass the Praxis Exam administered by ETS.
- Complete an online jurisprudence orientation.
Note: Audiologists are also permitted to dispense hearing aids under their audiology license.
Exemptions
There are certain exemptions to the licensing requirements, including:
- Physicians and those under their direct supervision, provided they are not referred to as audiologists or speech-language pathologists.
- Federal employees working within their agency.
- Individuals certified as speech correctionists or speech-language specialists by the state Department of Education.
- Students, fellows, and trainees in audiology or speech-language pathology as part of their course of study under a licensed supervisor.
- Hearing aid dispensers.
- Individuals engaged in activities for which they are licensed to perform.
- Persons with a business interest, provided clinical services are performed by licensed professionals and a statement is filed with the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Committee.
Reciprocity
If you’re already licensed in another state with similar requirements, you may be eligible for licensure in New Jersey without needing to pass the Praxis Exam again. Make sure to provide proof of your existing licensure.
Interim Practice
New residents who have applied for licensure and hold a state license from their previous state may be issued a temporary license valid for one year. Clinical interns must also obtain a temporary license for up to 18 months.
Continuing Education
Licensees are required to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years. You can carry over up to five hours if they are earned within six months prior to license renewal. Additionally, licensees renewing in 2015 must complete the jurisprudence online orientation.
Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact
Currently, New Jersey is not a member of the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact. For updates, you can check the ASLP-IC website.
Board Oversight
The Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Committee oversees the licensing and regulation of these professions in New Jersey.
Resources
For more detailed information, you can visit the following resources:
- New Jersey Practice Act [PDF]
- New Jersey Rules and Regulations [PDF]
- For state advocacy issues, call ASHA at 800-498-2071 and ask for the State Affairs Team.
For more information, please follow this link.
