Washington Speech-Language Pathologist License
Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Committee
Total Fee
$75
Processing Time
2 to 4 weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Not available
See board
What You'll Need
- Speech-Language Pathologist License Application — The primary application form for licensure.
- Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the educational institution to the Department of Health.
- Praxis Exam Scores — Official score report sent directly from ETS.
- Jurisprudence Examination — Completed open-book exam on Washington state laws and rules.
- ASHA CCC Verification — Verification of ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (optional, can waive some documentation).
How to Apply
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Education and Clinical Practicum ▾Complete a master's or doctorate degree in speech-language pathology from a board-approved accredited program, including a supervised clinical practicum.
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Pass the Praxis Examination ▾Take and pass the national Praxis examination in Speech-Language Pathology administered by ETS. Scores must be sent directly to the Washington Department of Health.
Praxis ASHA Information -
Complete Postgraduate Professional Experience ▾Complete at least 36 weeks of full-time (or part-time equivalent) supervised postgraduate professional work experience (Clinical Fellowship).
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Pass the Washington Jurisprudence Exam ▾Complete the open-book Jurisprudence Exam based on Washington laws (RCW 18.35) and rules (WAC 246-828). A score of 100% is required.
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Submit Application and Fees ▾Apply online through the SecureAccess Washington (SAW) portal by adding the HELMS service, or submit a paper application with the $191 fee.
Apply Online via SAW -
Submit Supporting Documentation ▾Request official transcripts and national exam scores to be sent directly to the Department of Health. If applying by paper, include the completed Jurisprudence Exam.
Total Fee
$75
Processing Time
2 to 4 weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
Washington is a member of the ASLP Interstate Compact.
Steps
-
Verify Out-of-State License ▾Submit the Out-of-State Credential Verification form to every state where you hold or have held a license.
Verification Form PDF -
Provide Proof of ASHA Certification ▾If you hold ASHA CCCs, provide verification to potentially waive education and experience documentation requirements.
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Complete Washington Jurisprudence Exam ▾All endorsement applicants must pass the Washington-specific open-book jurisprudence exam.
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Submit Endorsement Application ▾Complete the standard SLP application and select the endorsement option, paying the required fee.
Online Portal
Total Fee
$100
Renewal Cycle
Every year (birthday)
Compact
No
Board
Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Committee
Keeping Your License Active
Washington Speech-Language Pathologist licenses renew Every year (birthday). Contact the Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Committee for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Renew on the board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $75 |
| Endorsement application | $75 |
| Fingerprint check | $35-$50 (varies by state) |
| Temporary permit | See board |
| Renewal | 100.0 |
Slow Downs
Incomplete Application Forms
▾
Missing signatures or unanswered personal data questions will halt processing. Ensure every section is completed before submission.
Third-Party Document Delays
▾
Waiting for transcripts or exam scores from external agencies is a frequent cause of delay. Request these as early as possible.
Background Check Processing
▾
Out-of-state applicants or those with a criminal history may require a fingerprint-based background check, which can take several weeks.
Unpaid or Incorrect Fees
▾
Applications are not processed until the full non-refundable fee is received and cleared.
Questions
How many continuing education hours are required for renewal?
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Licensed SLPs must complete 30 hours of continuing education every three years, including 1 hour of infection control and 2 hours of health equity training.
Is there a jurisprudence exam for Washington SLPs?
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Yes, all initial and endorsement applicants must pass an open-book jurisprudence exam with a score of 100%.
Can I practice while my application is pending?
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No, you must have an active license or an interim permit to practice speech-language pathology in Washington.
How often do I need to renew my license?
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Licenses must be renewed every year on or before the licensee's birthday.
What is the initial application fee for an SLP license?
▾
The initial application and license fee is $191, which includes a $16 fee for access to the HEALWA online library.