Understanding South Dakota's Speech-Language Pathology Licensure Process
For professionals in the field of speech-language pathology, understanding the licensure requirements is crucial for ensuring compliance and maintaining the ability to practice. In South Dakota, the licensure process is clearly defined by the Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology. Whether you are seeking a full, provisional, or limited license, this guide will help you navigate the necessary steps and requirements.
Application Checklist for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP)
To apply for a Speech-Language Pathologist license in South Dakota, you must complete the following steps:
- Submit a signed and notarized application form.
- Pay the application fee of $100 and a licensure fee of $150, totaling $250.
- Provide ASHA Certification directly from ASHA, or if not certified, submit Praxis Scores directly from ETS.
- Submit Master’s Degree Transcripts directly from the university, if not ASHA Certified.
- Obtain licensed verifications from each state where you hold or have held licensure, sent directly from the state board office.
If you are applying for a Provisional SLP License, you must also submit a plan for your Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) experience, including details about your SD Supervisor, their license number, the location of the CFY experience, and the dates.
Levels of Licensure Explained
The South Dakota Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology offers different levels of licensure:
- Speech-Language Pathologist: Requires a master’s or doctoral degree, completion of supervised clinical practicum, postgraduate professional experience, passing a national examination, and no history of disciplinary action.
- Provisional Speech-Language Pathologist: Holds a master’s or doctoral degree, has completed a clinical practicum, passed the national examination, and is completing postgraduate experience under mentorship. This license is valid for 24 months and may be renewed once.
- Limited Speech-Language Pathologist: Holds a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders or speech-language pathology and a certificate from the South Dakota Department of Education as of July 1, 2012. This license allows practice in educational settings but restricts certain medical procedures.
- Speech-Language Pathology Assistant: Requires completion of specified application materials and adherence to defined practice limitations.
Renewal and Fees
Licenses must be renewed biennially, with fees as follows:
- Speech-Language Pathologist — $150
- Provisional Speech-Language Pathologist — $150
- Limited Speech-Language Pathologist — $150
- Speech-Language Pathology Assistant — $100
All licenses expire on the first day of October of the second year after issuance. Late renewals within 30 days incur no penalty, but those submitted after 30 days up to 180 days incur a $50 late fee. Failure to renew within 180 days requires reapplication.
Conclusion
Understanding the requirements for speech-language pathology licensure in South Dakota is essential for maintaining your ability to practice. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your license, ensuring compliance with the Board's regulations will help you continue to provide valuable services to your clients. For more detailed information, please follow this link.
