2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois 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 Illinois data shows for Speech-Language Pathologists

To practice as a speech-language pathologist in Illinois, the state licensing board requires 3,919 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Illinois's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology".

Upfront cost is $328, with renewal running $236 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: Audiology and SLP Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
3,919 hours
Exam Requirement
Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology
Required
Initial License Fee
$328
Renewal Fee
$236
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

Audiology and SLP Licensure Compact: adoption underway

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Illinois licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Speech-Language Pathologist in Illinois?
Illinois requires 3919 education/training hours, passing an exam (Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology), and an initial fee of $328. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Speech-Language Pathologist in Illinois?
To become a licensed speech-language pathologist in Illinois, you must meet the state's requirements including 3919 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Illinois licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Speech-Language Pathologist license to Illinois from another state?
Illinois has reciprocity provisions: Audiology and SLP Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Illinois licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Illinois require a background check for Speech-Language Pathologist licensing?
Yes, Illinois 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 Illinois?
Licensed speech-language pathologists in Illinois must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $236.

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

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