Pennsylvania Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing Guide

Pennsylvania SLP License Overview

Pennsylvania is not an ASLP Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) member. SLPs must obtain a Pennsylvania-specific license via endorsement of an out-of-state credential. Endorsement is the only pathway available; compact privileges do not apply. Plan 4-6 weeks for processing.

How to Get a Pennsylvania SLP License by Endorsement

Pennsylvania 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 $50 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Pennsylvania 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 State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

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

Pennsylvania SLP License Fees

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Pennsylvania Temporary SLP License

Pennsylvania 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:

• Complete endorsement application submitted to Pennsylvania board
• A valid license in another state to practice speech-language pathology
• Proof of current ASHA certification or equivalent national credential

Issuance timeline:

• Completed application received and filed by board
• Prior-state verification letter received (or ASHA registry confirmation obtained)
• Board staff confirmation that application is administratively complete

Important for travelers: Temporary license becomes void if permanent endorsement application is denied; applicant must cease practice immediately. A provisional license for a licensee of another state is valid for 90 days; an applicant who has met every licensure requirement may instead get one valid for 6 months from the date the licensure application is submitted.

Pennsylvania SLP License Processing Time

Pennsylvania Speech-Language Pathologist endorsement applications typically take 4-6 weeks to process.

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 3 weeks.

Common sources of delay:

• Board processes applications in batches; applications submitted after monthly review cutoff delay to next cycle (typically 2-4 weeks additional wait)
• Verification from ASHA or prior-state board can take 1-2 weeks; delays in obtaining official verification letter are common
• Background check completion is state-specific and not standardized; fingerprinting delays or name-match issues can add 1-3 weeks

We have not found an expedited processing option on the State 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.

Pennsylvania SLP Continuing Education

Pennsylvania requires 20 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for Speech-Language Pathologist license renewal.

Pennsylvania SLP License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years, expiring by July 31st of every even-numbered year — $65

Pennsylvania Licensing Board and Resources

State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Board Website · Application Portal · License Verification