Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist License Reciprocity & How to Apply

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

Last verified 2026-02-25 Official board Board of Communication Disorders and Sciences fast tier
Compact State Decision point for travel-ready licensing

Your Speech-Language Pathologist License May Already Cover Tennessee

Tennessee participates in the ASLP-IC. If your home state and credential qualify for compact privilege, you may be able to work in Tennessee without filing a separate endorsement application.

Fallback path: if your home state is outside the compact or your privilege is not active, use the endorsement flow below.

Endorsement Fee $165 State-level transfer cost
Processing Time 2 to 4 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 Tennessee.

  1. Earn a Master's Degree in SLP

    From a CAA-accredited program.

  2. Pass the Praxis Examination

    Test code 5331, score 162.

  3. Complete Clinical Fellowship

    36 weeks supervised clinical practice.

  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)

Required Documents

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

Board Contact

Board
Board of Communication Disorders and Sciences
Department
Tennessee Department of Health
Phone
(615) 741-5735
Email
tn.health@tn.gov
Visit Official Board Portal

Renewal

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

Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist Reciprocity 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.

Explore More Paths

All Speech-Language Pathologist reciprocity states Tennessee board portal Tennessee endorsement steps