Psychologist / Kentucky
2026 data Kentucky board official source

Kentucky Psychologist License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Diagnoses and treats mental and behavioral disorders. Requires doctoral degree.

What the Kentucky data shows for Psychologists

Kentucky's path to psychologist licensure runs through 5,541 hours of approved instruction, 2 years of supervised work experience, and a passing score on EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Kentucky folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Doctoral Degree (PhD or PsyD)".

Budget $208 to get started, plus $181 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 40 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions.

Licensing Requirements in Kentucky

Education / Training Hours
Doctoral Degree (PhD or PsyD)
5,541 hours
Exam Requirement
EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology)
Required
Initial License Fee
$208
Renewal Fee
$181
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
40 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Kentucky licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Psychologist in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, the license path calls for 5541 education/training hours, a passing score on EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology), and a $208 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Psychologist in Kentucky?
Kentucky licenses psychologists who complete its requirements (5541 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Kentucky licensing board.
Can I transfer my Psychologist license to Kentucky from another state?
Reciprocity for psychologists nationally works like this: PSYPACT: 42 participating jurisdictions. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Kentucky. Verify the specifics with the Kentucky licensing board.
Does Kentucky require a background check for Psychologist licensing?
Kentucky does require a background check before issuing a psychologist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Psychologist in Kentucky?
To stay licensed as a psychologist in Kentucky, plan on 40 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $181.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites