Tennessee

Getting Your Speech-Language Pathologist License in Tennessee

Here's what you need to know.

Last updated 2026-02-25 · Sources verified

Licensing Path

Tennessee participates in the ASLP-IC. If your home state also participates and your license is eligible, you may be able to practice through compact privilege.

If you do not qualify for compact privilege, use the endorsement path below.

Endorsement fee
$165
Processing time
2 to 4 weeks
Fingerprinting
Required
Temporary license
Available
Compact
ASLP-IC active in Tennessee
Board
Board of Communication Disorders and Sciences

Endorsement Steps

  1. Step 1

    Earn a Master's Degree in SLP

    From a CAA-accredited program.

  2. Step 2

    Pass the Praxis Examination

    Test code 5331, score 162.

  3. Step 3

    Complete Clinical Fellowship

    36 weeks supervised clinical practice.

  4. Step 4

    Submit Application

    Submit with fees to TN DOH.

Quick Facts

Total fee
$165
Processing time
2 to 4 weeks
Renewal fee
$115
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years (January 31)
Application
$50
Background check
$0 (included in application)
Jurisprudence exam
$0
Total estimated cost
$165

License Types

Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist: Full credential for independent SLP practice in Tennessee.

Provisional SLP License: For SLP graduates completing their Clinical Fellowship.

Required Documents

Board Contact

Board
Board of Communication Disorders and Sciences
Department
Tennessee Department of Health
Phone
(615) 741-5735
Email
tn.health@tn.gov
Board site
https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/communication-disorders-board.html
Compact source
https://aslpcompact.com/

Source: Primary board website

Renewal

Renewal fee is $115. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years (January 31).

Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing FAQ

How much does a Tennessee SLP license cost?

$165 initial. $115 biennial renewal.

Is Tennessee part of the ASLP Interstate Compact?

Yes.

Does Tennessee allow telepractice for SLPs?

Yes.

Does Tennessee have reciprocity for speech-language pathologists?

Yes. Tennessee participates in the ASLP-IC. If your home state and license qualify for compact privilege, you can typically practice in Tennessee without a separate endorsement application.

How long does it take to transfer my speech-language pathologist license to Tennessee?

Most endorsement applications take 2 to 4 weeks. If you qualify for an active compact privilege, there may be no separate wait to start practicing.

Can I start working in Tennessee while my endorsement application is processing?

A temporary or provisional credential is available while the full endorsement application is pending.