Guide to Certificate of Clinical Competence CCC-SLP

The Certificate of Clinical Competence for Speech-Language-Pathologists (CCC-SLP) is the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s (ASHA) certification for speech-language pathologists. State licensure boards, not ASHA, set legal requirements to practice. However, many states align parts of licensure with ASHA/CFCC standards or accept the CCC-SLP to satisfy some licensure requirements (requirements vary by state). Holders of the CCC-SLP have demonstrated knowledge and competency to fulfill an independent speech-language pathologist’s role successfully.

CCC-SLP for Speech-Language Pathologists

Speech-language pathologists assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Some work in schools, while others work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

To help increase opportunities for employment, mobility, career advancement, and professional credibility, future speech-language pathologists may want to earn their CCC-SLP. It is widely recognized by state regulators and employers, but it is not a substitute for a state license. Plus, it builds trust with consumers, clients, health care professionals, employers, state licensure boards, and third-party payers. Participating in ongoing professional development is part of maintaining ASHA certification, which helps CCC-SLP holders stay current as practice evolves.

The first step in getting the ASHA CCC-SLP is to complete at least a master’s degree. Although these speech pathology master’s programs do not require a particular undergraduate degree for admission, certain courses must be taken before entering a program. Required courses vary by institution.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), all states regulate speech-language pathologists, typically through licensure. Though requirements vary by state, most states require that a speech-language pathologist be licensed. Licensure typically requires at least a master’s degree from an accredited program, supervised clinical experience, and passing an exam. Some states also require a post-graduate supervised experience period; ASHA certification requires completion of a Clinical Fellowship (CF), and many states’ supervised-experience rules may be met through an ASHA-style CF, but state rules vary.

Certification typically satisfies some or all of the requirements for state licensure and may be required by some states and employers. To earn CCC-SLP certification, candidates must graduate from an accredited program, pass an exam, and complete a fellowship under the supervision of a certified speech-language pathologist. ASHA’s Clinical Fellowship requirement for the CCC-SLP is at least 36 weeks and 1,260 hours (part-time equivalent allowed). Applicants are evaluated under the certification standards in effect when ASHA receives their application.

Who Sets the Certificate of Clinical Competence for Speech Pathologists?

The Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC) is ASHA’s credentialing body that sets and enforces the standards for the CCC-SLP. Speech-language pathologists who are members of the ASHA’s Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (CFCC) set the standards for the certificate of clinical competence for speech-language pathologists. This group defines the competence standards for clinical certification and applies those standards to anyone applying for the CCC-SLP.

The CFCC consists of 16 voting members, including a chair, from the public and professional communities. This council is intentionally formed with the following proportionate membership requirement:

• At least five people hold a certificate of clinical competence in audiology.
• At least 5 people hold a certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology.
• At least four members should be practitioners, including pathologists and two audiologists.
• The council also includes at least two members certified in two different specialties.
• And finally, two members from the public.

Additionally, there are non-voting members of this group. This includes two student members (one studying audiology and the other studying speech-language pathology), an ex officio member from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), and a national office ex officio member, each with a four-year term. All members, except the public members and two ex officio members, must hold current ASHA certification in the appropriate areas.

Explore These CCC-SLP Topics

What is a CCC-SLP, and Why Does it Matter? Learn more about the CCC-SLP and why it may be a beneficial certification to earn. From career advancement to mentorship opportunities, the CCC-SLP has many potential benefits.

• CCC-SLP Requirements: Find detailed information about CCC-SLP education, clinical experience, and exam requirements. This guide also provides a step-by-step overview of how to become a CCC-SLP, and lists states that require the certification for licensure.
• CCC-SLP Salary and Career Outlook: Discover CCC-SLP salaries and potential career paths based on the setting you’d like to work in. If you’re interested in a specific area of speech pathology, such as fluency disorders or child language, there may be an advanced CCC-SLP certification available—read about advanced certifications here.
• The Guide to the ASHA Speech Pathology Certification Standards: Familiarize yourself with the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) certification standards you’ll be expected to meet as a professional.

Information last updated: March 2026