Speech-Language Pathologist / District of Columbia
2026 data District of Columbia board official source

District of Columbia Speech-Language Pathologist License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Diagnoses and treats communication disorders. Requires masters degree.

What the District of Columbia data shows for Speech-Language Pathologists

To practice as a speech-language pathologist in District of Columbia, the state licensing board requires 3,573 documented education or training hours, a passing score on Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under District of Columbia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology".

Budget $233 to get started, plus $175 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Audiology and SLP Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in District of Columbia

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
3,573 hours
Exam Requirement
Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology
Required
Initial License Fee
$233
Renewal Fee
$175
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with District of Columbia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Speech-Language Pathologist in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia's requirements cover 3573 hours of education or training, the Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology exam, and an initial fee of $233. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Speech-Language Pathologist in District of Columbia?
To become a licensed speech-language pathologist in District of Columbia, you must meet the state's requirements including 3573 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the District of Columbia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Speech-Language Pathologist license to District of Columbia from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for speech-language pathologists: Audiology and SLP Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the District of Columbia licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does District of Columbia require a background check for Speech-Language Pathologist licensing?
Yes, District of Columbia requires a criminal background check as part of the speech-language pathologist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Speech-Language Pathologist in District of Columbia?
To stay licensed as a speech-language pathologist in District of Columbia, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $175.

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