Washington Speech Pathology State License Guide

The process of obtaining a speech pathology license in Washington is similar to that of many other states. Some common requirements in Washington include a master’s degree, practical experience and standardized testing. Keep reading to learn how state licensure works for Washington SLPs, complete with helpful links and resources to make the process as smooth as possible.

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Summary of Washington Speech Pathology State License Requirements 

Washington speech pathology licensure requires submission of the following documentation:

  1. Proof of completion of a master of speech pathology program that included clinical practicum experience.
  2. Proof of at least 36 weeks of full-time postgraduate professional work experience.
  3. A passing score on the PRAXIS examination (scores must be received directly from the examination agency), a key component of state speech-pathology licensing requirements.
  4. The name of a registered agent who accepts process service for law violations.
  5. A list of any other states where the candidate holds or once held credentials.
  6. A completed personal data questionnaire.
  7. Proof of completion of training specific to HIV/AIDS.

Speech Pathology Initial Licensure for Washington 

According to the State Department of Health, initial Washington speech pathology licensure requirements include proof of completing a master’s degree and work experience. Additionally, applicants will need to provide proof of passing the PRAXIS examination in Speech-Language Pathology. 

All of these initial licensure requirements are also prerequisites for obtaining a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC). A CCC-SLP certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is an optional certification that can signal you have met academic and professional standards that go above and beyond SLP state licensure requirements. 

Speech-Language Pathology Licensure Exemptions for Washington 

Washington state offers speech pathology licensure exemptions in a few specific cases:

  1. Military and federal government employees may fall under different licensing requirements.
  2. Sponsored educational seminars may be led by individuals who are licensed in other states.
  3. Students who are being supervised may work with patients while they complete a Hearing and Speech Board-approved master’s program.
  4. The Washington professional educator standards board may certify people who only practice in school settings.

License Reciprocity for Speech Therapists in Washington 

Washington offers license reciprocity for those who have earned an SLP credential in another state, U.S. territory or the District of Columbia¹. The granting state or territory must require equivalent licensure standards. The applicant will be granted a temporary practice permit while their background check is processed. If an applicant passes a background check, they are eligible for Washington state licensure. 

Interim Practice for Aspiring Speech Pathologists in Washington 

Since one requirement for SLP licensure in Washington is post-graduate professional work, the state issues interim practice permits². Students who have completed their academic and practicum requirements may apply for a one-year interim license so they can practice speech pathology while working toward full licensure. 

Continuing Education for Speech Language Pathologists in Washington 

After obtaining an initial speech pathology license in Washington, SLPs will need to continue learning so they can maintain their eligibility for renewal. In Washington, practicing SLPs must complete at least 30 hours of continuing education every three years. One of those hours must cover an infection control topic. Continuing education hours must be earned through accredited institutions or profession-related organizations.

Contact Information for SLP State Licensure in Washington 

The Washington State Department of Health oversees SLP state licensure. Their website includes all the information you need to make sure you meet Washington state licensing requirements

Washington SLP Licensing Board Oversight 

The Washington Board of Hearing and Speech protects public health and safety by ensuring that health care providers meet high quality and competency standards. Three seats on the board are reserved for members of the public. The remaining board members are practicing speech and hearing practitioners, as well as one medical doctor. Learn more about the Washington Board of Hearing and Speech on their website.

Washington Speech-Language-Hearing Association 

Washington Speech-Language-Hearing Association 

5727 Baker Way NW, Suite 200

Gig Harbor, WA 98332

Phone: 253-525-5162 

Email: office@wslha.org  

Washington Regulatory Agencies 

In addition to the Washington Board of Hearing and Speech, several other organizations help ensure the quality of SLP professionals:

School-Based Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Certification/Licensing – Washington Teacher Certification

Old Capitol Building

P.O. Box 47200

600 Washington St. SE

Olympia, WA 98504-7200

Phone: 360-725-6000      

Email: cert@k12.wa.us

Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT)

1110 Jefferson St. SE

Olympia, WA 98501

Phone: 360-725-3500      

Email: ESIT@dcyf.wa.gov 

Special Education – Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Old Capitol Building

P.O. Box 47200

Olympia, WA 98504-7200

Phone: 360-725-6075  

Email: speced@k12.wa.us

Washington Board of Hearing and Speech

Washington Department of Health

111 Israel Rd. SE 

Tumwater, WA 98501

Phone: 360-236-4700

Email: hsqa.csc@doh.wa.gov

Washington Hearing Screening Contacts

Hearing screenings are provided to school-aged children throughout the state of Washington. The School Health Services branch of the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction oversees audiology testing in schools. If you have specific questions about student screening, please use the contact information below.

Early Hearing-Loss Detection, Diagnosis and Intervention Program

Early Hearing-Loss Detection, Diagnosis and Intervention Program

Washington State Department of Health

1610 NE 150th St.

Shoreline, WA 98155

Phone: 888-923-4334     

Email: ehddi2@doh.wa.gov

Health Services

Health Services

Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

600 Washington Street SE

Olympia, WA 98504

Phone: 360-725-6049

Email: healthservices@k12.wa.us  

Washington ASHA Network Representatives

ASHA provides a liaison for each state to help candidates navigate the certification process. Here is the contact information for Washington’s state representative.

Liaison: Eileen Crowe

Email: ecrowe@asha.org

Information last updated April 2021.

1 Washington Licensing Requirements for Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists. Retrieved from https://www.asha.org/ on April 9, 2021arrow_upwardReturn to footnote reference

2 Washington Licensing Requirements for Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists. Retrieved from https://www.asha.org/ on April 9, 2021arrow_upwardReturn to footnote reference