LicenseCompass

Speech-Language Pathology License in California

Quick Answer

To become a licensed speech-language pathologist in California, you need a master's degree with 60 semester units, 300 clinical hours, and supervised professional experience. Pay $150 for application plus initial license and $49 for fingerprints. Biennial renewal is $150 with 24 CPD hours required. ASHA CCC holders are deemed to meet requirements.

Exam
Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology (ETS)
Total Cost
$199 (est.)
Timeline
6-8 weeks processing time
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

Speech-Language Pathology license in California

gold
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$150
Renewal Fee
$150
Total Estimated Cost
$199

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Speech-Language Pathology license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$150
Total Estimated Cost$150

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Speech-Language Pathology Salary in California

Entry Level

$67,150

Median

$116,000

Experienced

$153,930

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Speech-Language Pathology in California.

  1. 1

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$150.

  2. 2

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 6-8 weeks processing time.

Speech-Language Pathology Licensing in California: What to Know

California requires a master's degree or equivalent in speech-language pathology with completion of 60 semester units (at least 24 in related disorders), 300 hours of supervised clinical experience, and 36 weeks of full-time (or 72 weeks part-time) supervised professional experience. The Praxis exam must have been taken within the last 5 years, though a waiver may be requested. Application and initial license is $150, fingerprint processing is $49, and biennial renewal is $150 with 24 hours of CPD required (12 hours for first renewal). California uniquely allows ASHA CCC holders to be deemed as having met licensure requirements. A separate Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential ($100) is required for working in public schools. Processing time is 6-8 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Speech-Language Pathology license cost in California?
The estimated total cost is $199, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Speech-Language Pathology license in California?
The process typically takes 6-8 weeks processing time, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Speech-Language Pathology license in California?
You need to pass the Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology (ETS). N/A

Considering another state?

Compare Speech-Language Pathology requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.