Applying for a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) license in Colorado can seem daunting, but with the right information, it becomes a manageable task. This guide will walk you through the key steps and requirements to help you successfully obtain your SLP license in Colorado.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here's a breakdown of the essential steps and requirements for your SLP license application:
- Pay the Required Fee: Use a credit card or electronic check to pay the application processing fee. Remember, all fees are non-refundable and subject to change.
- Provide Your Social Security Number or Individual Tax Identification Number: This is a mandatory requirement unless you are a foreign national not physically present in the U.S. or a non-immigrant on a student visa.
- Provide Name Change Documentation (if applicable): If your name has changed since you last held a license or any required documentation has a different name, you must upload proof of your name change.
- List and Verify Other Licenses: You need to list all licenses you hold or have held in speech-language pathology or related professions. Provide scanned copy verification or arrange for verification to be sent to the Office of Licensing.
- Develop a Plan to Ensure Security of Patient Medical Records: A written plan is required to ensure the security of patient medical records.
- Maintain Professional Liability Insurance: You must have professional liability insurance with a minimum coverage of one million dollars per claim and three million dollars per year.
- Answer Screening Questions: Be prepared to answer questions about your criminal history or complaints filed against you in other jurisdictions. This may require you to upload court documents or other materials.
- Complete a Healthcare Professions Profile: This profile is an ongoing responsibility and must be updated within 30 days of any changes or reportable events.
Additional Requirements
Depending on how you are applying, there are additional requirements:
By Examination
- Hold a Master's Degree or Higher: Your degree must be in Communication Sciences and Disorders from an accredited institution.
- Complete a Clinical Fellowship: This must be accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) or another approved fellowship.
- Pass a Relevant National Examination: Provide proof of passing scores from the National Examination approved by ASHA or an equivalent examination.
- Hold a Certificate of Clinical Competency: If you haven't taken the National Examination, you may qualify with a certificate of clinical competency from ASHA.
By Endorsement
- Hold a Current SLP Certification/License in Another State or Jurisdiction: Your certification/license must be valid and in good standing.
- Attest to Your Competency to Practice: You can demonstrate competency through active practice, continuing education, or holding a Certificate of Clinical Competency from ASHA.
Important Information
Here are some additional key points to keep in mind:
- Application Specialist Review: An Application Specialist will review your application based on the information you supply. If your application is incomplete, you will be contacted via the email address you provided.
- Disclosure of Addresses: All addresses and phone numbers on record with the Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO) are public records and must be provided to the public when requested. Keep your address and contact information current.
- Application Expiration: Your application will be kept on file for one year from the date of receipt. If not completed within a year, you will need to resubmit a new application packet and fee.
- Certification Expiration Grace Period: If you are issued a certification within 120 days of the upcoming renewal expiration date, you will receive a certification with the subsequent expiration date. All Colorado SLP certifications expire on November 30th every year and must be renewed to continue practicing.
For more information, please follow this link.
