A speech pathology state license in Iowa is required for individuals who want to assess and treat communication disorders. This licensing guide explains the requirements, exemptions and standards required in Iowa.
The below information has been curated by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) based on Iowa’s rules and regulations for state licensure. Please note that requirements/information may change at any time, so always check with your state for the most up-to-date information.1
Sponsored online speech pathology programs
Online MS: Pursue SLP Certification. Study FT/PT
Speech@Emerson enables you to earn an MS online and pursue SLP certification in as few as 20 mos. Learn the same curriculum as the on-campus program. Study FT or PT.
- Prepares you to pursue certification as an SLP generalist
- In-person clinical placements at faculty-approved partner sites
- As few as 20 months to complete
SPONSORED
Want to Become an SLP? Earn an MS Online at NYU
NYU Steinhardt’s online master of science program in Communicative Sciences and Disorders prepares aspiring speech-language pathologists with a comprehensive professional education.
- Prepares students to pursue SLP licensure
- Accredited by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation
- As few as six terms to complete
- Full-time and part-time plans of study
SPONSORED
Summary of Iowa Speech Pathology State License Requirements
Iowa speech pathology licensure requires potential candidates to complete a master’s in speech pathology and clinical observation hours. An Iowa speech pathology license also requires the passage of an exam or completing a certificate of competence in this area. The Iowa Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology explains how licensure can be obtained in this state.1
Don’t have a master’s degree? Learn how to get your master’s in speech pathology.
Speech Pathology Initial Licensure for Iowa
According to ASHA, Iowa speech pathology licensure requires the following specifics for being an SLP in this state.
- Candidates must have a master’s degree in speech pathology from an accredited school.1
- Candidates must also complete 400 hours of supervised clinical training for license verification.1
- Candidates must complete no less than nine months of clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist with a master’s degree.1
- Candidates must pass the Praxis exam or show proof of their American Speech-Language Hearing Association Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC).1
Speech Language Pathology Licensure Exemptions for Iowa
The following individuals are exempt from Iowa speech pathology licensure: doctors, osteopaths, surgeons, their employees and any trainees; non-professional aides who work under the supervision of a speech-language pathologist; and school district/education agency employees who are certified by the Department of Education as speech pathologists.1
Reciprocity for Speech Therapists in Iowa
For Iowa speech pathology licensure, the Iowa Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology may waive the examination requirement for individuals licensed in another state if those state requirements are equivalent to Iowa. Also, endorsed licensure requires an ASHA certification or nine months of clinical experience, National Teacher Exam scores, official transcripts and all verifications of license(s).1
Interim Practice for Aspiring Speech Pathologists in Iowa
If an individual is licensed in another state, they may apply for temporary speech pathology licensure in Iowa. This applicant must be supervised by another SLP. Nonresidents may apply for a temporary license for three months and meet the same qualifications for the Iowa license.1
Continuing Education for Speech Language Pathologists in Iowa
Maintaining your SLP license in Iowa requires completion of 30 hours of continuing education per biennium renewal. These CE hours are required for updating your Iowa speech pathology license.1
Contact Information for SLP State Licensure in Iowa
For helpful information on Iowa speech pathology licensure, potential candidates can contact the Iowa Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. The Board assists in safeguarding the SLP as well as the consumer. All information on licensing can also be found on the Board’s website.
Iowa SLP Licensing Board Oversight
The Iowa Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology oversees the SLP licensing, practice and delivery of services. The Board will also evaluate applicants and grant licenses to those who qualify for Iowa speech pathology licensure.
Iowa Speech Language Hearing Association
Iowa Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ISHA)
c/o Capture Marketing
400 E. Court Avenue, Suite 126
Des Moines, IA 50309
Contact: Natalie Battles
Phone: 515-868-0141
Email: isha@isha.org
Iowa Regulatory Agencies
Iowa Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
Board of Hearing Aid Dispensers
Iowa Department of Public Health
Lucas State Office Building
321 E. 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
Contact: Venus Vendoures-Walsh
Phone: 515-281-0254
Email: venus.vendoures-walsh@idph.iowa.gov
Iowa Hearing Screening Contacts
Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program
Iowa Department of Public Health
Lucas State Office Building, 5th Floor
321 E. 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319-0075
Contact: Tammy O’Hollearn
Phone: 515-242-5639
Email: tammy.ohollearn@idph.iowa.gov
Iowa ASHA Network Representatives
- State Education Advocacy Leaders (SEALs) – Colin Nies colinnies@gmail.com
- State Advocates for Reimbursement (STARS) -Dr. Karen Bryant (SLP) Karen-bryant@uiowa.edu
- State Advocates for Medicare Policy (StAMP) Network – Amanda Morano-Villhauer (SLP) amanda.morano-villhauer@mercyic.org
1The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. “Iowa Licensing Requirements for Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists,” accessed December 2020. arrow_upwardReturn to footnote reference
Information Last Updated June 2020
Sponsored online speech pathology programs
Online MS: Pursue SLP Certification. Study FT/PT
Speech@Emerson enables you to earn an MS online and pursue SLP certification in as few as 20 mos. Learn the same curriculum as the on-campus program. Study FT or PT.
- Prepares you to pursue certification as an SLP generalist
- In-person clinical placements at faculty-approved partner sites
- As few as 20 months to complete
SPONSORED
Want to Become an SLP? Earn an MS Online at NYU
NYU Steinhardt’s online master of science program in Communicative Sciences and Disorders prepares aspiring speech-language pathologists with a comprehensive professional education.
- Prepares students to pursue SLP licensure
- Accredited by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation
- As few as six terms to complete
- Full-time and part-time plans of study
SPONSORED