Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing Guide

Tennessee SLP License Overview

Tennessee is an ASLP-IC member state and is now issuing compact privileges, one of four states doing so (with Louisiana, Ohio and West Virginia). A Speech-Language Pathologist whose home-state license is in one of the other three may be able to practice in Tennessee on a compact privilege instead of a Tennessee license; confirm eligibility with the ASLP-IC before relying on it. Everyone else needs a Tennessee license by endorsement or exam.

For travelers, this means you may be able to work in Tennessee on an ASLP-IC privilege instead of a Tennessee license, provided your home-state license is in another ASLP-IC state that is also issuing privileges. A compact privilege is something you apply for through the compact before you start; it is not automatic.

How to Get a Tennessee SLP License by Endorsement

Tennessee 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 $160 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Tennessee 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 Tennessee Board of Communications Disorders and Sciences. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the Tennessee Board of Communications Disorders and Sciences website for status updates on your application.

Tennessee SLP License Fees

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Tennessee Temporary SLP License

Tennessee 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:

• Current ASHA certification (CCC-SLP) or active speech-language pathology license from another state
• Complete initial application submitted to Tennessee board portal
• Disclose with your application the circumstances of any criminal conviction (except minor traffic violations) and of any denial or discipline of a license or certificate in any state or country

Issuance timeline:

• Complete application received by Tennessee board portal
• A Board member or the Board's designee determines your application is complete and you receive written authorization to commence practice
• Applicant meets ASHA or equivalent state licensure requirements

Denial risks:

• Incomplete application (missing verification request or required documentation)

Important for travelers: Temp license automatically expires if permanent license is denied; reapplication required for new temp license. Practicing outside scope of temporary license terms (e.g., in settings not approved by board) can trigger immediate revocation.

Tennessee SLP License Processing Time

Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist endorsement applications typically take 6-12 weeks to process.

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 3 weeks (compact privilege only; no state-specific licensing needed).

Common sources of delay:

• Administrative staff of the Division of Health Related Boards issue the license once you meet the requirements of the law and rules, so it waits until every requirement is met
• Background check processing through Tennessee's state-specific system can add 2-4 weeks if discrepancies require clarification
• License verification delays from applicant's current state (especially non-ASHA Clearinghouse states) can extend timeline by 3-6 weeks

Tennessee offers an expedited processing option: only for military members and spouses of military members, who file a Declaration of Eligibility for Expedited Licensure Process (form PH-4279 for members, PH-4280 for spouses).

Tennessee SLP Continuing Education

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

• Practice hour model: At least 10 hours in each calendar year, 5 of them in your area of practice (speech-language pathology or audiology) and 5 in either field

Tennessee SLP License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years — $60
• Renewal timing: From date of issuance.

Tennessee Licensing Board and Resources

Tennessee Board of Communications Disorders and Sciences

Board Website · Application Portal