Arkansas Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing Guide

Arkansas SLP License Overview

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

Arkansas has enacted ASLP-IC legislation (SB91, 2023) and is a member state, but the compact is NOT yet operational in Arkansas. The ASLP-IC privilege-issuing data system is still being built, so compact privileges cannot currently be applied for or issued in/for Arkansas. SLPs must obtain an Arkansas license by endorsement to practice; compact privilege is not a present-day pathway.

How to Get an Arkansas SLP License by Endorsement

Arkansas 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 $5 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Arkansas 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.

Confirm the current fingerprinting and background check steps with the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology website for status updates on your application.

Arkansas SLP License Fees

Endorsement application and renewal: from our records; confirm with the board.

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Arkansas Temporary SLP License

Arkansas issues temporary speech-language pathology licenses, allowing Speech-Language Pathologists to begin practicing while their permanent endorsement application is being processed.

Eligibility requirements:

• Applicant must submit a completed application to Arkansas board
• Applicant must provide current ASHA card or equivalent license verification from another state
• Applicant must pay the $5 application fee at time of submission

Issuance timeline:

• Temporary license is automatically issued upon receipt of complete application, fee, and valid ASHA card verification
• Grace period begins immediately upon board confirmation of completed submission and extends until next scheduled board meeting

Denial risks:

• Failure to include ASHA card or equivalent verification document with application
• Application submitted without payment of $5 fee
• Applicant does not hold active ASHA certification or valid out-of-state SLP license

Important for travelers: Temporary license automatically expires at next board meeting; permanent license issuance or denial occurs at that meeting. If permanent application is denied at board meeting, temporary license revokes immediately and applicant must cease practice. If applicant cannot demonstrate ongoing eligibility (e.g., ASHA certification lapses during grace period), temporary privilege may be revoked before board meeting.

Arkansas SLP License Processing Time

Arkansas Speech-Language Pathologist endorsement applications typically take 2-8 weeks to process.

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 2 weeks (if application submitted before board meeting cutoff and all documentation complete).

Common sources of delay:

• Board meets on the 2nd Friday of every other month; applications submitted after cutoff wait 4-8 weeks for next meeting
• ASHA verification or direct board verification can add 1-2 weeks if current state board is slow to respond
• Incomplete applications (missing ASHA card, fee, or required documentation) are rejected and must be resubmitted, adding 2-4 weeks per cycle

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology'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.

Arkansas SLP Continuing Education

Arkansas requires 10 contact hours of continuing education for Speech-Language Pathologist license renewal (from our records; confirm with the board).

Arkansas SLP License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every year — $3 via Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology portal
• Renewal timing: Annually every year prior to July 30th.

Arkansas Licensing Board and Resources

Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Board Website · Application Portal · License Verification

Phone: (501) 682-9180

Email: [email protected]