Colorado Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing Guide

Colorado SLP License Overview

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

Colorado has enacted the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) via SB21-021 (2021) and is a member state, but the compact is not yet operational. As of early 2026 the Commission is only issuing/honoring compact privileges for licensees of Louisiana, Ohio, and West Virginia. Colorado SLPs cannot yet obtain a compact privilege, and out-of-state SLPs cannot yet use compact privilege to practice in Colorado. Travelers must obtain a Colorado certification by endorsement.

How to Get a Colorado SLP License by Endorsement

Colorado 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 $10 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Colorado 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 (see DPO Fingerprinting & Background Check Information). Submit your fingerprinting authorization as early as possible.

Check the Colorado Office of Speech-Language Pathology Certification website for status updates on your application.

Colorado SLP License Fees

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

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Colorado Temporary SLP License

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

Eligibility requirements:

• Out-of-state SLP covering for a temporarily absent Colorado-certified SLP
• Must be a qualified Speech-Language Pathologist licensed in another state

Issuance timeline:

• Complete temporary license application submitted via Colorado board portal
• Verification of active out-of-state license received and confirmed by board

Denial risks:

• Applicant is not covering for an absent Colorado-certified SLP (temporary license is only for backfill purposes)
• Applicant has already used their annual temporary license privilege in the same 12-month period (maximum once per year)

Important for travelers: Temporary license expires after 4 weeks even if the covered SLP has not returned; cannot be extended. This uncertified practice may not occur more than once a year and may not exceed a total of thirty calendar days.

Colorado SLP License Processing Time

Colorado Speech-Language Pathologist endorsement applications typically take 2-4 weeks to process.

Common sources of delay:

• Board processes applications in batches on a monthly schedule; applications submitted after the monthly cutoff delay issuance by 3-4 weeks
• Verification requests routed through ASHA can add 1-2 weeks depending on ASHA processing queue and the source state's responsiveness
• Missing or incomplete jurisprudence exam completion (if required) requires applicant resubmission, delaying board review by 1-2 weeks

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Colorado Office of Speech-Language Pathology Certification'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.

Colorado SLP Continuing Education

Contact the Colorado Office of Speech-Language Pathology Certification for current continuing education requirements.

Colorado SLP License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every year, expiring by November 30th — $10 via Colorado Office of Speech-Language Pathology Certification portal

Colorado Licensing Board and Resources

Colorado Office of Speech-Language Pathology Certification

Board Website · Application Portal · License Verification

Phone: (303) 894-7800

Email: [email protected]