Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Licensure

Pennsylvania Licensure for Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania requires speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists to be licensed through the State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology before practicing in most settings.  For school-based settings, SLP's are required to obtain either an Instructional I or Educational Specialist certificate only.  See the Teacher Certification section for details.

Need Help With Licensure?

PSHA is committed to supporting speech-language pathologists and audiologists throughout the licensure process by providing resources, guidance, and peer support. However, PSHA is not the Pennsylvania licensing board and cannot approve applications, provide legal interpretations of regulations, or determine licensure eligibility.

PSHA members are encouraged to use the PSHA CommUnity to ask questions, connect with colleagues, and receive coaching and support from professionals who have recently completed the licensure process.

Individuals seeking official guidance regarding applications, status updates, requirements, or licensure decisions should contact the Pennsylvania State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology directly. Nonmembers are encouraged to work directly with the licensing board for assistance with specific licensure questions or concerns.

 

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Who Oversees Licensure?

Licensure is managed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS).

Applications, renewals, and updates are completed online through the PALS Licensing System.

Requirements for Full SLP Licensure in Pennsylvania

To become a fully licensed SLP in Pennsylvania, applicants must:

  • Hold an M.A./M.S. degree or equivalent from an accredited academic institution
  • Complete a practicum in the appropriate specialty consisting of a minimum of 375 hours
    • At least 250 supervised clock hours must be completed at the graduate level in the area in which licensure is sought
    • Practicum experience must include a minimum of 50 clock hours in at least two distinctly different environments
  • Complete a year of supervised/CF experience
  • Pass an examination approved by the Licensure Board
  • Apply for licensure through PALS-  to determine what other documents you need to complete your application, please click here and choose "Application Checklist" and follow the prompts to generate a list of documents you need to complete the application based on your experience.

Supervised/CF Experience Requirements

Pennsylvania requires:

  • At least 1,260 hours of supervised professional experience
  • Completed over a minimum of 9 months
  • Completed within 2 years

This supervised/CF experience is typically completed after graduation under the supervision of a licensed SLP.  

Continuing Education Requirements

SLPs and audiologists must complete continuing education to renew their license.

Renewal Requirements

  • 20 hours of continuing education every renewal cycle
  • Includes required child abuse recognition training and an FBI Background Clearance

Check out this resource to see if your continuing education hours count towards state licensure.

Provisional Licensure (Supervised/CF Experience License)

A provisional license allows new graduates to work while completing their supervised/CF experience.

Who Needs a Provisional License?

A provisional license is generally needed for graduates who:

  • Have completed their master’s degree
  • Have secured employment
  • Are completing supervised professional experience for full licensure and/or CCC requirements

School-based positions may use PDE certification instead, while medical settings typically require provisional licensure. Requirements may vary by employer.

What You Need to Apply

To apply for a provisional license, you must have:

  • A conferred master’s degree
  • A job or supervised/CF experience placement
  • A licensed supervisor/mentor
  • An account in the PALS system

Good News:

You do not need to pass the Praxis exam before obtaining a provisional license. The Praxis is required later for full licensure.

How Long Does a Provisional License Last?

For supervised/CF experience applicants:

  • Valid for 18 months
  • May be renewed one time if needed

How to Apply for a Provisional License

  1. Create an account on PALS
  2. Select:
    • “Application for Provisional Licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist”
    • License type: “Experience”
  3. Upload required documents, including:
    • Transcript
    • Experience plan
    • Supervisor information

Helpful Tips for Applicants

  • Apply early—processing times can vary.
  • Electronic transcripts are often processed faster than mailed copies.
  • Double-check that your experience plan clearly describes your supervised/CF experience placement and supervision.

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