Unlock Your Potential: How to Get Licensed as an SLP in Minnesota

Navigating the path to becoming a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in Minnesota can be a daunting task, but with the right information and guidance, you can unlock your potential and make a meaningful impact in schools through online therapy services. Here's everything you need to know about obtaining your SLP license in Minnesota, especially if you hold a certification from another state or the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

Why Licensing is Important

Before you can practice or use protected titles in Minnesota, you must hold a current Minnesota Occupational Therapy or Occupational Therapy Assistant license. This ensures that you meet the state's professional standards and are legally authorized to provide therapy services.

Methods of Licensing

Minnesota offers two primary methods for obtaining your license:

• Equivalency: Apply for a full license by Equivalency under Minnesota Statutes §148.6412 if you hold a current NBCOT certificate and may hold or have held a credential in another state.
• Reciprocity: Apply for a full license by Reciprocity under Minnesota Statutes §148.6415 if you do not hold a current NBCOT certificate but have a current and unrestricted credential for the practice of occupational therapy in another state or jurisdiction.

Steps to Get Started

All applicants are required to complete the following steps:

1. Review Licensing Methods: Ensure you review all application methods to avoid delays.
2. Online Application: Complete the online application through your online account. First-time users need to register to access the site.
3. Criminal Background Check: Minnesota law requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check. This process can take 3-5 weeks.
4. Practice Questions: If you answered yes to any practice questions, further legal/medical documentation may be required.

Documentation Required

Depending on the method of licensing, you will need to submit the following documents directly to the Board office:

Equivalency

• NBCOT Verification of Certification: Provide documentation of your current and unrestricted NBCOT certificate.
• License Verification: Provide documentation for all licenses you hold or have held for the practice of occupational therapy and/or healthcare.

Reciprocity

• License Verification: Provide documentation for all licenses you hold or have held for the practice of occupational therapy and/or healthcare.
• Statute or Administrative Rules: Provide the rules from the licensing agency at the time of initial license issuance.

Online Application Tips

• If you reside in a foreign country, select "FC" in the state box and provide the country name.
• If your school is not listed, select "Other School" and manually enter the name and location.
• Ensure you include all higher education, including other degrees earned and schools attended.

What Happens Once My License is Approved?

Once your license is approved, you will receive correspondence via mail, and your license information will appear on the License Lookup tool. You may begin to practice as soon as your name appears on this tool. Remember, each licensee is responsible for following Continuing Education Requirements and maintaining current contact information with the Board.

For more information, please follow this link.