Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists Frequently Asked Questions

Applying for a License

1. If I am completing my ASHA CFY do I still need to obtain an Intern License with TDLR?
In order to complete the required 36-week internship in Texas, an Intern in Speech-Language Pathology license is required. An intern may pursue the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Clinical Fellowship Year (ASHA CFY) simultaneously; however, approval from ASHA to begin the CFY is not a license to practice in Texas.

2. Is there reciprocity with other states?
No. In order to obtain licensure with the state of Texas you must submit an initial license application and meet the requirements for licensure.

3. I graduated with a master’s degree in communication disorders more than ten years ago.  Am I able to obtain an intern in speech-language pathology license?

If you have a master’s degree in communicative sciences or disorders, but the degree was conferred more than ten years ago, you must submit proof of current knowledge of the practice of speech-language pathology with your application.  TDLR will review the documentation to verify that you possess current knowledge of the practice of speech-language pathology.

Examples of proof of current knowledge may include: recently completing continuing education or other courses; holding a current license in another state; holding a current ASHA certification; writing a research paper; having letters of recommendation; having letters of good standing; or showing relevant and related work experience. This list of examples is not an exhaustive list.  TDLR will review the documentation you submit.

Please refer to §111.40(d) regarding the proof of current knowledge requirement.

4. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders more than ten years ago.  Am I able to obtain an assistant in speech-language pathology license?

If you have a baccalaureate degree with an emphasis in communicative sciences or disorders, but the degree was conferred more than ten years ago, you must submit proof of current knowledge of the practice of speech-language pathology with your application.  TDLR will review the documentation to verify that you possess current knowledge of the practice of speech-language pathology. 

Examples of proof of current knowledge may include: recently completing continuing education or other course; holding a current license in another state; writing a research paper; having letters of recommendation; having letters of good standing; or showing relevant and related work experience.  This list of examples is not an exhaustive list.  TDLR will review the documentation submitted. 

Please refer to §111.50(b)(2) regarding the proof of current knowledge requirement.

General

1. What is telehealth?
Telehealth is the use of telecommunications and information technologies for the exchange of information from one site to another for the provision of speech-language pathology or audiology services to a client from a provider.

2. Can I use telehealth to provide client services?
Please refer to TAC 111.212 and 111.213 for the requirements for the use of telehealth and restrictions.

3. What title can I use to shorten my professional title?

Assistants in speech-language pathology may use "Assistant SLP" or “SLP Assistant" to shorten their professional title.

As an Intern in speech-language pathology, you may use “Intern SLP” OR “SLP Intern.”

4. If I change my name or address, do I notify TDLR?
Yes, you need to notify TDLR in writing. Download the Notice of Change and Duplicate License Request form (79KB PDF).

5. Does TDLR prohibit licensees from providing certain services?
A licensee is only authorized to a specific scope of practice as stated in the Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists law and rules.

6. How do I stay informed about changes impacting me?
You have several options to stay connected:

• Email updates - Sign up for email updates to receive notices about rules, the law, fees, examination requirements, meetings and more. Email updates are the best way for you to stay informed.
• Meetings - TDLR’s advisory board and Commission meetings are available to watch online live or later at your convenience.
• Facebook and Twitter - TDLR has a Facebook page and Twitter account dedicated to TDLR Health Professions.

7. Can I order a new certificate from TDLR to be framed?
Yes. Download the duplicate license request form. Submit the completed form and the fee to the address on the form.

8. Are disciplinary actions posted on the TDLR web site?

Disciplinary actions are posted on our web site once final orders have been processed. View disciplinary actions now.

To view disciplinary actions taken under Department of State Health Services, please submit an open records request.