District of Columbia Speech-Language Pathologist License Reciprocity & How to Apply

Start with the only questions that matter for travelers: does your current license already cover District of Columbia, what does endorsement cost, and how quickly can you get cleared to work?

Last verified 2026-02-25 Official board Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology slow tier
No Interstate Compact Decision point for travel-ready licensing

How to Transfer Your Speech-Language Pathologist License to District of Columbia

There is no active interstate compact covering speech-language pathologist practice in District of Columbia. To work here, plan on a full endorsement or transfer application through Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology.

Good news: the exact cost, documentation, and board path are laid out below so there is no guesswork.

Endorsement Fee $187 State-level transfer cost
Processing Time 4 to 8 weeks Best estimate from current board data
Fingerprinting Required Background screening expectation
Temporary License Available Useful if you need a faster start date
See Endorsement Steps Official Board Portal

Endorsement Application Steps

Work through these in order. This sequence is the fastest way to move from out-of-state license to a board-cleared application in District of Columbia.

  1. Earn a Master's Degree in SLP

    Complete a master's degree from a CAA-accredited speech-language pathology program.

  2. Pass the Praxis Examination

    Achieve a passing score on the Praxis Examination (test code 5331, score 162).

  3. Complete Clinical Fellowship

    Complete 36 weeks of supervised clinical practice (1,260 hours).

  4. Submit Application to DC DOH

    Submit application with fees to DC Health.

Quick Facts

Total fee
$187
Processing time
4 to 8 weeks
Renewal fee
$164
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years

Required Documents

  • Official graduate transcripts: From a CAA-accredited program.
  • Praxis exam score report: Score of 162 or higher on test 5331.
  • Clinical Fellowship verification: CF completion documentation.
  • Background check: Criminal background check.

Board Contact

Board
Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
Department
DC Department of Health (DOH), Health Regulation and Licensing Administration
Phone
(202) 724-8800
Email
doh.hpla@dc.gov
Visit Official Board Portal

Renewal

Renewal fee is $164. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.

District of Columbia Speech-Language Pathologist Reciprocity FAQ

How much does a DC SLP license cost?

The total initial cost is approximately $187. Biennial renewal is $164.

Is DC part of the ASLP Interstate Compact?

No. DC has not enacted ASLP-IC legislation as of 2026.

Does DC allow telepractice for SLPs?

Yes. DC permits telepractice but requires a valid DC SLP license.

Does District of Columbia have reciprocity for speech-language pathologists?

No interstate compact currently covers speech-language pathologist practice in District of Columbia. To work in District of Columbia, apply for licensure by endorsement through the state board.

How long does it take to transfer my speech-language pathologist license to District of Columbia?

Most endorsement applications take 4 to 8 weeks. If you qualify for an active compact privilege, there may be no separate wait to start practicing.

Can I start working in District of Columbia while my endorsement application is processing?

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

Explore More Paths

All Speech-Language Pathologist reciprocity states District of Columbia board portal District of Columbia endorsement steps