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Colorado Speech-Language Pathologist License

Division of Professions and Occupations — Speech-Language Pathology

Total Fee
$120
Processing Time
2 to 4 weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Not available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Official Transcripts — Proof of a master's or higher degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited institution.
  • Praxis Score Report — Official score report from ETS showing a passing score of at least 162.
  • Proof of Clinical Fellowship — Documentation verifying completion of a 36-week (1,260 hours) clinical fellowship.
  • Professional Liability Insurance — Proof of insurance coverage with minimum limits of $1,000,000 per claim and $3,000,000 annual aggregate.
  • Patient Medical Record Security Plan — A written plan outlining how you will ensure the security and confidentiality of patient records.

How to Apply

  1. Create a DPO Online Account
    Register for an account on the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO) Online Services portal to start your application.
  2. Complete Fingerprinting and Background Check
    Schedule an appointment with an approved Colorado Applicant Background Services (CABS) vendor (IdentoGO or Colorado Fingerprinting) to submit your fingerprints.
  3. Submit Official Transcripts
    Request your graduate school to send official transcripts directly to the Office of Speech-Language Pathology Certification. Electronic transcripts are preferred.
  4. Submit Praxis Exam Scores
    Request ETS to send your official Praxis Speech-Language Pathology (test code 5331) scores to the Colorado board. A minimum score of 162 is required.
    ETS Praxis Scores
  5. Complete the Healthcare Professions Profile (HPPP)
    Create and maintain a mandatory profile including information on your education, practice, and any disciplinary history.
    HPPP Portal
  6. Submit Application and Pay Fee
    Complete the online application for 'Initial Certification' and pay the non-refundable application fee (currently $77).
Total Fee
$120
Processing Time
2 to 4 weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Requirements
Colorado is a member of the ASLP Interstate Compact. SLPs from other compact member states can practice in Colorado through a compact privilege.

Steps

  1. Verify Out-of-State License
    Request verification of your active, in-good-standing SLP license from every state where you have ever been licensed.
  2. Submit Endorsement Application
    Select the 'Endorsement' method when applying through the DPO Online Services portal.
  3. Attest to Competency
    Provide proof of active practice or current ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competency (CCC-SLP).
Total Fee
$75
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Division of Professions and Occupations — Speech-Language Pathology

Keeping Your License Active

Colorado Speech-Language Pathologist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Division of Professions and Occupations — Speech-Language Pathology for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$120
Endorsement application$120
Fingerprint check$35-$50 (varies by state)
Temporary permitSee board
Renewal75.0

Slow Downs

Incomplete HPPP Profile
Failure to complete the Healthcare Professions Profile will prevent the issuance of your certificate. Ensure all sections are finished.
Fingerprint Processing
Background checks can take several weeks. Schedule your appointment early in the application process.
Transcript Delays
Transcripts must come directly from the institution. Using third-party electronic services is faster than mail.

Questions

What is the difference between certification and licensure in Colorado?
In Colorado, SLPs are 'certified' by DORA/DPO, which serves as the state-level license to practice. School-based SLPs may also require a separate license from the Colorado Department of Education (CDE).
How many CE hours are required for renewal?
SLPs must complete 10 Professional Development Activities (PDA) per year. These must be documented in a Learning Plan based on a Reflective Self-Assessment Tool (RSAT).
When do Colorado SLP certificates expire?
All SLP certifications expire annually on November 30.
Is there a jurisprudence exam for SLPs?
No, there is currently no separate jurisprudence exam required for initial SLP certification in Colorado.

Board Info

Division of Professions and Occupations — Speech-Language Pathology
Sources
Last verified 2026-02-25