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Alabama Speech-Language Pathologist License

Alabama Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Not available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Notarized Licensure Application — The primary application form which must be signed in the presence of a notary.
  • Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the educational institution to the Board office.
  • Praxis Score Report — Official scores sent directly from ETS to ABESPA. ETS Score Reporting
  • Proof of Citizenship — A copy of a valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or driver's license as required by the Beason-Hammon Act.
  • Passport-Size Photo — One recent 2x2 inch photograph of the applicant.
  • Clinical Fellowship Verification — A notarized statement from the supervisor indicating successful completion of the CFY.

How to Apply

  1. Complete Educational Requirements ▾
    Earn a master's degree or higher in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited institution approved by the Board.
  2. Complete Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) ▾
    Complete a minimum of 9 months of full-time (or 18 months part-time) supervised postgraduate professional experience.
  3. Pass the Praxis Examination ▾
    Take and pass the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam (Test Code 5331) with a minimum score of 162. Ensure scores are sent directly to ABESPA.
    Praxis Alabama Requirements
  4. Prepare Application Packet ▾
    Complete the notarized Licensure Application. Include a passport-size photo and proof of citizenship (e.g., copy of driver's license or passport).
  5. Submit Fees and Mail Application ▾
    Calculate the total fee ($200 application fee plus a prorated license fee based on the month of application). Mail the packet with a check or money order to the Board office in Montgomery.
  6. Board Review ▾
    The Board typically meets monthly to review applications. You will be notified of your licensure status following the meeting.
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Requirements ▾
Alabama is a member of the ASLP Interstate Compact, which allows SLPs licensed in other compact member states to obtain a compact privilege to practice in Alabama. Traditional endorsement pathways are also available for non-compact applicants.

Steps

  1. Verify ASHA CCC or Current License ▾
    If you hold a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from ASHA, request that ASHA send verification directly to the Board.
    ASHA Verification
  2. Submit Reciprocity Form ▾
    Complete Part 1 of the Reciprocity Form and send it to the state(s) where you currently hold a license for them to complete and return to ABESPA.
  3. Submit Main Application ▾
    Complete the standard Licensure Application, selecting 'Option 2' (ASHA CCC) or 'Option 3' (Reciprocity).
Total Fee
$100
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Alabama Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Keeping Your License Active

Alabama Speech-Language Pathologist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Alabama Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Visit board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$100
Endorsement application$100
Fingerprint check$35-$50 (varies by state)
Temporary permitSee board
Renewal100.0

Slow Downs

Incorrect Fee Payment ▾
Applicants often forget to include the prorated license fee in addition to the $200 application fee. Check the fee schedule for the exact amount due for your application month.
Missing Notarization ▾
The application and certain supporting documents must be notarized. Applications without a valid notary seal will be returned.
Transcript Delivery Issues ▾
Transcripts must be sent directly from the university. Hand-delivered or applicant-mailed transcripts are not accepted.
Incomplete Citizenship Proof ▾
Failure to provide a clear copy of a qualifying document for the Beason-Hammon Alabama Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act will stall the process.

Questions

How many continuing education hours are required for renewal? ▾
12 clock hours are required annually. At least 10 hours must be in Content Area I (professional competency) and 1 hour must be in ethics.
When does my Alabama SLP license expire? ▾
All licenses expire annually on December 31st, regardless of when they were issued during the year.
Is the ASHA CCC-SLP required for licensure in Alabama? ▾
No, it is not required, but holding the CCC-SLP streamlines the application process as it serves as evidence of meeting education and exam requirements.
Can I practice while my application is pending? ▾
Yes, if you hold a valid CCC or equivalent and an active license in another state, you may practice during the interim period between application submission and Board action.
Does Alabama require a separate fingerprinting background check? ▾
No, a separate fingerprinting fee or vendor visit is not required for ABESPA; a criminal background review is included as part of the standard application process.

Board Info

Alabama Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
Phone(334) 269-1434
Webwww.abespa.alabama.gov/
Emailmailto:abespa@abespa.org
Sources
Alabama Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
Last verified 2026-02-25