Are you looking to advance your career in speech-language pathology? If you're planning to practice in Texas, obtaining a license is a crucial step. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the application process smoothly.
Application and Fee
To kickstart your application, submit the online form along with a $150 application fee, which covers a two-year initial license. Remember, you have one year from the date of application to meet all licensing requirements. Failing to do so will necessitate a new application and fee.
Educational Requirements
A master's degree (or higher) in communicative sciences or disorders is essential for applying. Ensure your transcripts are original or certified copies. Electronic transcripts are acceptable if sent from your university's secure site to cs.transcript@tdlr.texas.gov.
Non-Accredited Colleges or Universities
If your degree is from a non-accredited program, include an original signed letter from ASHA confirming that your coursework and clinical experience are accepted by the Council for Clinical Certification.
Degrees Earned More than 10 Years Ago
If your degree was earned over a decade ago, you'll need to prove current knowledge in speech-language pathology. This can be demonstrated through recent continuing education, a current license from another state, ASHA certification, or by retaking and passing the written exam.
Master's Degree in Audiology
Applicants with a master's in audiology can also apply, provided they submit an original transcript and a letter from the program director stating they have met the academic and clinical experience requirements for a speech-language pathology license.
Clinical Experience Requirements
Before starting your clinical practicum, you must complete 25 hours of supervised observation. The required hours of supervised clinical direct client contact vary based on when your degree was earned:
- 275 hours if earned before November 10, 1993
- 350 hours if earned between November 10, 1993, and December 31, 2004
- 400 hours if earned on or after January 1, 2005
Internship Requirements
Complete at least 36 weeks of full-time supervised professional experience, totaling a minimum of 1,260 hours. Internships must focus on clinical activities and be divided into three segments, each requiring 36 clock hours of supervisory activities. Submit the Report of Completed Speech-Language Pathology Internship Form within 30 days of completing your internship.
Out-of-State Internships
If your internship was completed out-of-state, include a copy of your supervisor's valid license. If the state does not require licensure, provide an original letter from ASHA confirming your supervisor's Certificate of Clinical Competence.
Examination Requirements
Pass both the national Praxis Exam and the Texas Jurisprudence Examination. Detailed registration information can be found on the Exam Information page.
ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence
If you hold an ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence, you may be exempt from the internship and Praxis Exam requirements. Submit official documentation from ASHA to verify your eligibility.
Criminal History Evaluation
All new applicants must undergo a national criminal history record review. Instructions for fingerprinting will be emailed after your application is received. Previous fingerprint submissions for a Texas license may exempt you from this requirement.
Dual Licensure in Audiology
If you seek dual licensure in both speech-language pathology and audiology, separate applications for each license type are necessary. Refer to the How to Apply for a New Audiology License page for more details.
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