Alaska Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing Guide

Alaska SLP License Overview

Alaska has joined the ASLP-IC, but the state is not yet issuing or honoring compact privileges. Until Alaska begins processing privileges, travelers must obtain an Alaska-specific license through the endorsement process before practicing here.

Alaska enacted ASLP-IC legislation (SB 75, 2024) and is a member state, but the compact is NOT yet operational for Alaska. SLPs cannot yet practice in Alaska via compact privilege and must obtain an Alaska state license (by endorsement). Verify directly with the Division before assuming any compact pathway.

How to Get an Alaska SLP License by Endorsement

Alaska uses an online portal endorsement process for Speech-Language Pathologists already licensed in another state. You'll need to submit your completed application along with supporting documents and the $200 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Alaska board portal
2. Request license verification from current state (via ASHA or direct) (can run concurrently)
3. Complete any state-specific requirements (background check, etc.) (can run concurrently)
4. Await board review and license issuance

License verification is handled through ASHA or direct board verification. Request verification early so your application is not delayed.

Background check: Fingerprint-based criminal background check: you are fingerprinted and pay the Department of Public Safety fees for a national criminal history record check (AS 08.11.015). Submit your fingerprinting authorization as early as possible.

Check the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development website for status updates on your application.

Alaska SLP License Fees

Renewal: from our records; confirm with the board.

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Alaska Temporary SLP License

Alaska issues temporary speech-language pathology licenses, allowing Speech-Language Pathologists to begin practicing while their permanent endorsement application is being processed. For travelers, this is often the fastest path to starting an assignment.

Eligibility requirements:

• Currently licensed to practice as Speech-Language Pathologist in another US state
• An application for an Alaska license and the required fees submitted to the department (AS 08.11.015)

Issuance timeline:

• Once you are licensed in another state and have submitted the application and fees, the department may issue a temporary license; it is not automatic

Denial risks:

• The department must deny a nonresident or clinical-fellowship temporary license if the board finds you committed an act that is grounds for a disciplinary sanction under AS 08.11.085
• Incomplete application or failure to provide required state verification within 30 days of board request

Important for travelers: A nonresident's temporary license covers practice in Alaska for 60 days or less in a calendar year. After a hearing, the department may impose a disciplinary sanction if it finds you secured a license or temporary license through deceit, fraud, or intentional misrepresentation.

Alaska SLP License Processing Time

Alaska Speech-Language Pathologist endorsement applications typically take 6-8 weeks to process.

Common sources of delay:

• Temporary license issuance depends on complete application submission; missing verification from current state prolongs timeline
• Alaska board processes applications on rolling basis but may batch reviews; applications submitted mid-month may wait until next board review cycle
• Background check and jurisprudence exam (if required) can add 2-3 weeks if not initiated concurrently with application submission

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development's site. The best way to minimize your wait time is to ensure all application components — fingerprints, verification, and any required exams — are completed before or immediately after submitting your application.

Alaska SLP Continuing Education

Alaska requires 15 contact hours of continuing education for Speech-Language Pathologist license renewal (from our records; confirm with the board).

Alaska SLP License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years — $35 via Department of Commerce portal
• Renewal timing: Every 2 even-numbered years prior to September 30th.

Alaska Licensing Board and Resources

Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development

Board Website · Application Portal · License Verification

Phone: (907) 465-6804

Email: [email protected]