Are you looking to become a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in Pennsylvania? Navigating the licensing process can seem daunting, but we're here to break it down into manageable steps for you. Follow this easy guide to ensure you're on the right track.
Application
First things first, you need to complete the application. Keep in mind:
- The application must be completed within six months, or certain sections will need to be updated.
- If not completed within one year, a new application and fee will be required.
- You cannot practice until you have been issued a license.
Application Fee
An application fee of $50.00 is required. Note that all fees are non-refundable.
Child Abuse Continuing Education (CE)
All health-related licensees, including SLPs, are considered “mandatory reporters” under the Child Protective Services Law. As part of the licensing process, you must complete 3 hours of approved training on child abuse recognition and reporting. The training provider will electronically submit your attendance details to the Bureau.
Criminal History Check
You must list all states you have lived or worked in during the last five years and provide a recent Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) from each state. The report must be dated within 180 days of the application submission date.
- For a Pennsylvania record check, visit epatch.pa.gov.
- For other states, visit the State Police Criminal Record History - Out of State List.
- If you have lived or worked outside of Pennsylvania, you may provide a state CHRC from your current state and an FBI Identity History Summary Check.
Databank Report
Provide an official notification of information (Self Query) from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB). Upload the "Response to your Self Query" as prompted in the application.
Educational Transcripts
Applicants must possess a master’s degree or higher in speech-language pathology from an accredited program. Request your academic program to send an official transcript directly to the Board.
Exam Results
Applicants must pass the PRAXIS examination. Contact the Examiner, NTE, at 800-772-9476 and request that your PRAXIS scores be sent to the Board using Code 8053.
Letter of Good Standing (LOGS)
Contact the state board(s) where you have held any health-related license and request letters of good standing. The letters must include the license details and disciplinary history and be sent directly to the Board.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae
Upload a current Curriculum Vitae (CV) listing all periods of employment or unemployment from graduation to present. The list must be in chronological order, including the month and year.
Supervised Experience
A Verification by a currently licensed SLP documenting the completion of at least 1260 hours of professional experience is required. Download the Supervision Verification form, have it completed by your supervisor, and upload it with your application.
For more information, please follow this link.
