Mississippi Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing Guide
License Snapshot
Processing Time
7-14 business days
From complete application
Application Fee
$200
Renewal: $100 · Temp license available
Compact (ASLP Interstate Compact)
No
Not a ASLP Interstate Compact member state
Renewal
20 hours
Every 2 years
Overview
Mississippi has joined the ASLP-IC, but the state is not yet issuing or honoring compact privileges. Until Mississippi begins processing privileges, travelers must obtain a Mississippi-specific license through the endorsement process before practicing here.
Mississippi has enacted ASLP-IC legislation but is NOT yet issuing compact privileges. As of early 2026 only Louisiana, Ohio, and West Virginia are operational. Travelers cannot practice in Mississippi under a compact privilege yet and must obtain a Mississippi license (by exam or reciprocity/universal license).
Endorsement Process
Mississippi uses an online application via msdh professional licensure portal (msdhpl.webapps.ms.gov/newapplication) by reciprocity or universal occupational license; ets/praxis exam may be waived if equivalent out-of-state license is held 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.
- Submit endorsement application via Mississippi board portal
- Request license verification from current state (via ASHA or direct) (can run concurrently)
- Complete any state-specific requirements (jurisprudence exam, background check, etc.) (can run concurrently)
- Await board review and license issuance
License verification is handled through ASHA or direct board verification. Mississippi requires verification from every state where you hold or have held a speech-language pathologist license, so request verification early to avoid delays.
Background check requirements vary by applicant — confirm the current fingerprinting and screening steps with the Mississippi State Department of Health. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible, since background check processing is one of the most common sources of delay.
Jurisprudence Exam Required: Mississippi requires a mandatory Speech-Language Pathology Jurisprudence Examination covering Mississippi-specific law. This cannot be waived regardless of your experience level or compact status. Schedule this early — no license (temporary or permanent) will issue until you've passed it.
After all components are received, the Board reviews applications on a rolling basis. Check the Mississippi State Department of Health website for status updates on your application.
Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Endorsement Application | $200 |
| Renewal | $100 (every 2 years) |
Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting. Many staffing agencies, including Fusion Medical Staffing, offer licensure reimbursement programs to help offset these expenses.
Temporary License
Mississippi 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.
Processing Time
Mississippi speech-language pathologist endorsement applications typically take 7-14 business days after receipt of all paperwork (board's stated standard); universal-license/reciprocity statutory cap 120 days to process. The timeline is subject to moderate variability depending on the completeness of your application and external factors.
In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 5 weeks.
Common sources of delay:
- Board processes applications in batches; applications submitted outside monthly processing windows experience 4-6 week delays
- Verification requests to out-of-state boards can stall for 2-3 weeks if ASHA verification is used instead of direct board contact
- Background check processing timeframe not publicly specified; delays often occur if state-specific background requirements are unclear or incomplete
Mississippi does not offer an expedited processing track. 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.
Continuing Education
Mississippi requires 20 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for speech-language pathologist license renewal.
- Traveler tip: Keep all CE documentation organized and easily accessible — Mississippi may audit compliance at any time
Renewal Process
- Renewal cycle: Every 2 years — $100 via Mississippi State Department of Health portal
- Renewal timing: Prior to June 30th of EVEN numbered years.
- Traveler tip: Track your Mississippi license expiration date carefully — a lapsed license can disrupt active assignments
Official Resources
Mississippi State Department of Health
Board Website·Application Portal
Phone: 601-364-7360
Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
Please note that while Fusion Medical Staffing strives to provide the most current and accurate information, we cannot guarantee the completeness or timeliness of the information provided. Requirements and processes can change frequently. Healthcare professionals are strongly encouraged to verify details directly with Mississippi State Department of Health's official website.
Resources
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