Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist License Reciprocity Guide - 2024

by Speech Pathologist Programs Staff

Updated: March 18th, 2024

Tennessee Licensing Body

Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist License Reciprocity Process

Speech-language pathologists often hold licenses to work in multiple jurisdictions, which provides job flexibility and security. This is achieved through reciprocity agreements among U.S. jurisdictions, which recognize licenses issued by other licensing boards.

Suppose an individual is seeking licensure in Tennessee and already holds a license in another state. In that case, they may be granted a Tennessee license through reciprocity if they meet the necessary qualifications outlined in Rule 1370-01-.05(10).

As part of the reciprocity process, the applicant must arrange for the appropriate licensing board in each state where they hold a license to send an official statement directly to the Tennessee Board. This statement should include details about the applicant’s license status in the other state, including the date of issuance and the criteria used to grant the license (e.g., clinical competence, examination, reciprocity, grandfathering, etc.).

To be licensed in Tennessee by reciprocity, the Board must confirm that the licensure standards in the state where the individual was originally licensed are equivalent to or exceed the current Tennessee licensure requirements.

To apply by reciprocity, you will need to provide the following supplementary information:

• An official copy of the licensure requirements from the state(s) where you are currently licensed.
• A copy of your renewal certificate from another state or foreign country, including the expiration date and certification number.

Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) helps SLPs qualify for reciprocity

To ensure a seamless transition during the reciprocity process, it is recommended that you start by familiarizing yourself with the ASLP-IC. This compact enables licensed SLPs to work in several states without obtaining additional licenses, which is particularly useful in meeting the growing demand for speech-language pathology services. ASLP-IC also permits both in-person and telepractice services across state lines.

Participating states communicate and exchange essential information through this compact, such as licensure verification and disciplinary actions. Nonetheless, each state still maintains the power to regulate practice within its borders.