Applicants can seek a speech pathology license in the state of Texas so they can assist individuals with speech, language, and even swallowing disorders. Upon completing their degree and its requirements, applicants can seek employment in Texas where a 27% increase in demand for audiologists is expected through 2026.1
The below information has been curated by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) based on Texas’ rules and regulations for state licensure of audiologists and speech-language pathologists. Please note that requirements/information may change at any time, so always check with your state for the most up-to-date information.
Summary of Texas Speech Pathology State License Requirements
Applicants for Texas speech pathology licensure must first obtain a master’s degree in speech pathology from an accredited university. They must also complete clinical observation hours in a supervised practicum so they can successfully hold a Texas speech pathology license. Finally, applicants need to pass an examination and submit proof of that passing score at the time of application. The exam must be completed no sooner than six months prior to the application.
Speech Pathology Initial Licensure for Texas
Texas has 20 accredited higher education institutions that support a speech pathology license.1 For a Texas speech pathology license, applicants must first have a master’s degree in an accredited program prior to application. The following are the remaining requirements for Texas speech pathology licensure:
- Speech pathologist applicants must complete 400 hours supervised clinical practicum.
- Speech pathologist applicants must finish 36 weeks of full-time or equivalent part-time supervised professional experience.
- Speech pathologist applicants must pass an examination and submit proof of the passing score at the time of application.
Also, the Board may waive the clinical and examination requirements and grant licensure to a Certificate of Clinical Confidence (CCC) holder.1
Speech Language Pathology Licensure Exemptions for Texas
Texas speech-language pathology licensure exempts license professionals performing duties for which they are licensed, students designated as speech pathology language trainees, physicians and surgeons, certificate holders in speech-language pathology from the Texas Education Agency for services within their jurisdiction and if limited to screening procedures performed without compensation, and registered nurses who perform speech or language hearings.
Reciprocity for Speech Therapists in Texas
The Board may grant Texas speech therapy licensure to a CCC-SLP holder. They must also waive the clinical and examination requirements and grant licensure to a CCC-SLP holder. Internships completed out of state must submit a copy of a supervisor’s master’s degree in communicative sciences and disorders as well as a copy of the supervisor’s valid license to receive a Texas speech therapy license.
Interim Practice for Those Aspiring to Become a Speech Pathologist in Texas
The Texas State Board of Examiners may grant a provisional license to an applicant licensed in another state with similar standards and has passed a national examination relating to speech-language pathology. This applicant for a speech pathology license in Texas should be sponsored by a licensee as well. The license is valid until the State Board of Examiners approves or denies the applicant’s state license. In addition, the intern license is required before beginning a supervised professional experience.
The State Board of Examiners may grant a temporary certificate of registration for applicants who meet all requirements to become an SLP in Texas except for the examination. The certificate allows the individual to practice for eight weeks after the next examination offered
Applicants for speech therapy license verification who have completed the academic and clinical requirements but have not yet received their degree may be licensed as an intern.
Continuing Education for Speech Language Pathologists in Texas
For you to maintain your Texas licensure, you must clock 20 hours of continuing education. Dual licenses must complete 30 CE hours to renew a license issue for a two-year term. Licensees must complete a minimum of two clock hours in ethics to maintain your Texas license as part of the continuing education requirement each renewal term.
Contact Information for SLP State Licensure in Texas
For further information, potential applicants for speech licensure in Texas can contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation or TDLR. More information for speech pathology licensure can be found via the TDLR website.
Texas SLP Licensing Board Oversight
Texas SLP licensing is monitored by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The TDLR oversees the rules and regulations as well as license verification for the state of Texas.
Texas Speech Language Hearing Association
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists
PO Box 12157
Austin, TX 78711
(800) 803-9202 [in state only]
(512) 463-6599
Fax: (512) 463-9468
Relay Texas-TDD: (800) 735-2989
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
P.O. Box 12057
Austin, TX 78711
Phone: 512-463-6599
Email: cs.speech@tdlr.texas.gov
Texas Hearing Screening Contacts
Department of State Health Services
1100 West 49th Street
Austin, TX 78756-3199
Phone: 512-776-7420
Email: vhssprogram@dshs.texas.gov
Texas ASHA Network Representatives
- State Education Advocacy Leaders (SEALs) – Kathy Wheat KWheat@usa.edu
- State Advocates for Reimbursement (STARS) – Kristina Ann Kelley (SLP) kristiann05@yahoo.com
- State Advocates for Medicare Policy (StAMP) Network – Lisa Milliken (SLP) lmilliken@selectrehab.com
1The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. “Texas State Flyer (PDF, 269 KB),” accessed June 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