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Ohio Speech-Language Pathology Aide Licensure Guide - 2025

AKA: Ohio SLPA Licensure

Ohio SLP & SLPA Licensure - 2025 Guide
Speech Pathologist Programs

by Speech Pathologist Programs Staff

Updated: March 14th, 2025

Ohio Licensing Body

Speech-Language Pathology Aides (SLPAs) support speech-language pathologists in evaluating and treating individuals with speech, language, voice, and fluency impairments. They execute planned speech and language activities, oversee the utilization of alternative communication devices, and follow treatment protocols directed by speech-language pathologists.

In addition to documenting client progress and aiding in developing speech and language abilities, SLPAs conduct training and education programs for families and communities. They may also assist with client assessments, charting performance data, testing and maintaining equipment, and gathering information to evaluate program quality.

However, due to the complexity of working with individuals with communication and swallowing disorders of varying severity, becoming a speech-language pathology assistant/aide requires training and licensure. This guide covers the criteria necessary for obtaining a license as a Speech-Language Pathology Aide in Ohio.

Ohio Speech-Language Pathology Aide or Audiology Aide Licensure Process

The lawful authority to regulate and issue licenses for speech pathologists and audiologist aides rests with the Ohio Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Here is the initial speech pathology assistant licensure process:

Educational Requirements

Minimum high school diploma or equivalent.

Experience Requirements

The licensed audiologist or speech-language pathologist is responsible determining the appropriate training based on the duties being performed by the Aide.

Background Check

The Ohio Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology requires SLPAs to pass a background check before applying for licensure. You are required to use one of the eighty-eight Ohio county sheriff’s offices or a WebCheck provider to submit their fingerprints to BCI and the FBI electronically.

To perform a background check for an Ohio SLPA/Aides license application, you must follow these steps:

  • Contact a WebCheck provider or the Ohio county sheriff’s office for specific instructions.
  • Request an FBI and BCI criminal records check.
  • Pay the necessary fees directly to the Webcheck provider. Fees include BCI ($22), FBI ($25.25), and potentially a processing fee ($5-$40), depending on the agency.
  • The agency should submit the electronic fingerprint records directly to the Ohio SLP board by selecting the “Direct Copy” option.
  • If you want to obtain a license in speech-language pathology, you should select the reason code Ohio SLPA board license Applicant.

To initiate the process, send your filled BCI and FBI fingerprint forms, along with the required payment enclosed, directly to the Fiscal Section, c/o Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation, at P.O. Box 365, London, Ohio 43140. It may take approximately 6 to 8 weeks to complete the process.

Application Process

Application fee is $53.50.  Application is online and submitted through Ohio’s license management system called eLicense.Ohio.gov.  An Aide Plan is required to be submitted with the application detailing the training, duties, and supervision that will occur.  The Aide Plan requires approval by the licensure board before duties can be performed.

Endorsement for Speech-Language Pathology Aides to Work In School Settings

The role of the School Speech-Language Pathology Aide (SLPA) is to work as part of an educational team under the guidance and supervision of a certified Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). The SLPA is responsible for carrying out assigned tasks in delivering services to students with speech, language, voice, and cognitive impairments. It’s worth noting that speech-language pathology and audiology support personnel are not subject to regulation in Ohio schools.