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
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $150
- Renewal Fee
- $150
- Total Estimated Cost
- $199
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
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
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$150.
- 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.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.