Speech-Language Pathologist / Washington
2026 data Washington board official source

Washington Speech-Language Pathologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Diagnoses and treats communication disorders. Requires masters degree.

What the Washington data shows for Speech-Language Pathologists

To practice as a speech-language pathologist in Washington, the state licensing board requires 3,811 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 Washington's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology".

The initial price tag is $298, and renewal costs $217 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

On reciprocity, speech-language pathologists should know: Audiology and SLP Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Washington

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
3,811 hours
Exam Requirement
Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology
Required
Initial License Fee
$298
Renewal Fee
$217
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Speech-Language Pathologist All Washington licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Washington licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Speech-Language Pathologist in Washington? ▼
Washington's requirements cover 3811 hours of education or training, the Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology exam, and an initial fee of $298. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Speech-Language Pathologist in Washington? ▼
Certification as a speech-language pathologist in Washington means clearing the state's checklist: 3811 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Washington licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Speech-Language Pathologist license to Washington from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for speech-language pathologists nationally works like this: Audiology and SLP Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Washington. Verify the specifics with the Washington licensing board.
Does Washington require a background check for Speech-Language Pathologist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the speech-language pathologist licensing process in Washington. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Speech-Language Pathologist in Washington? ▼
To stay licensed as a speech-language pathologist in Washington, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $217.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.