If you are interested in pursuing a career in SLP and have been researching licensing requirements or are simply interested in learning more about SLP degree programs, you may have come across the Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact. Or maybe you have heard it called the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact — ASLP-IC for short. This is to facilitate the licensing process for speech-language pathologists and audiologists to allow them to practice across state lines, in person or via telepractice. It is particularly valuable for those who intend to change states after graduation or provide services clinically from afar. In brief, the compact is an inter-state licensing agreement for SLPs, whereby they can apply for a ‘privilege to practice’ in other participating states, without needing to obtain a full separate license for each.
Why the Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact Exists
Prior to the compact, if you wanted to work in another state then you would need to get licensed there, that is usually done through submitting transcripts, background checks, and exam scores. After submittal, the whole thing is a process of waiting for approvals. This slows things down and limits access to care, and thus the compact was created to streamline that process and support a more mobile, accessible SLP workforce. One of the main reasons behind the compact is the growing use of telepractice, and this became important as more providers started to handle therapy remotely and the existing licensing laws did not allow for practice across state lines. Another factor was the frequent relocations faced by military families that would oftentimes affect the career of a licensed spouse in the profession. The compact provides them with a smoother path to maintain licensure when having to move between states. Also, many regions have faced workforce shortages and the compact makes it easier to bring in qualified professionals from other states to fill those gaps.
How the ASLP-IC Works
For use of the compact, the primary state of residence must be a member of the compact. For compact purposes, that state becomes your “home state.” You must be fully licensed there and then you can apply for a “compact privilege” in any other member state. It works like a license. It enables you to legally practice (in-person or via telehealth) in that state without having to go through their entire licensure process. You will still have to respect the laws and regulations of every state in which you practice and some may require you to pass a short jurisprudence exam and or pay a small fee. The member states agree to share disciplinary information so if there is an issue in one state, the other member states will be notified.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a compact privilege, you must:
- Hold an active SLP (or audiology) license in a compact member state.
- Have completed an accredited graduate program and supervised clinical experience.
- Have passed the national exam (Praxis).
- Have a clean disciplinary and legal record.
It’s important to note that this is not an alternate path to licensure. You will still need to earn your full license in your home state before using the compact. Students and clinical fellows are not yet eligible.
Where is the Compact is Active?
As of 2025, 34 states and one U.S. territory have adopted the legislation and joined the compact. This includes states such as Florida, Colorado, Ohio, Utah, and Washington. However, California, New York, and Texas are not members yet, the largest and most populous states. Therefore, SLPs in those states cannot currently take advantage of the compact’s multi-state practice privileges, unless they relocate to a compact member state and make it their primary residence. These holdout states may yet change their minds in future as the interest and advocacy for the compact remains to be high.
The compact was made effective in 2021 when the least number of states enacted the law. The ASLP-IC Commission has spent the last few years working away from the limelight to put in place the necessary architecture that will enable the compact to function. This includes putting in place a secure online system that will allow licensed SLPs to apply for and manage their compact privileges in member states. It is expected that the system will be made available in mid to late 2025. Once it is up and running, it will be the beginning of the full implementation of the compact, which will allow eligible SLPs to practice more freely between states.
Benefits for SLPs and Clients
The compact opens up a lot of flexibility for professionals and better access to care for clients. Here’s why it matters:
- Easier career mobility: Move to a new state or take on clients from other states without starting the licensure process over.
- Telehealth-friendly: Legally provide virtual therapy across compact states.
- Reduced paperwork: Apply once for privileges in multiple states through a streamlined system.
- Lower costs: While there may be small fees per state, it’s generally cheaper than maintaining multiple full licenses.
- Public protection: Shared disciplinary data among states prevents bad actors from moving unchecked.
Things to Keep in Mind
There are still some limitations and caveats:
- You must live in a compact state to use the system. If your state hasn’t joined, you’ll need to follow traditional licensing routes.
- A compact privilege is not automatic—you still have to apply for each state where you want to practice.
- The compact doesn’t override state-specific rules, like those around supervision, documentation, or school-based certification.
- You’re still responsible for maintaining your home state license in good standing.
What This Means for Students and New Grads
The compact will not affect how you earn your degree or how you get licensed if you are in school now. However, once you are fully licensed in a compact state, expanding your practice will be simpler.
Suppose you obtain your license in Colorado. Then you can try to get a job in states like Utah or Florida without having to go through the entire licensure process again. This could be especially helpful if you have telehealth, moving for a job or personal reasons, or doing a travel SBLP position, or if you are starting your own private practice and have clients in multiple states.
It is important for you to know this even when you are still in school because it is important to know the states that have joined the compact. It could also help determine where to do your clinical fellowship or where to get your first license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the compact if I live in a state that hasn't joined?
No. To use the compact, your primary state of residence must be a member of the compact. If your home state hasn’t joined, you are not eligible to apply for compact privileges, even if you’re licensed in a member state.
Is the compact a national license?
Not exactly. It’s not a federal or nationwide license. Instead, it’s a legal agreement among states that allows for multi-state practice privileges. You still need to apply for a compact privilege in each member state where you want to work.
When will the compact privileges become available?
The infrastructure to support the compact is being finalized and is expected to go live in mid-to-late 2025. Once the system is operational, SLPs will be able to apply for privileges through a centralized online platform.
Do I need to complete continuing education for each state I practice in?
No. You only need to meet the continuing education requirements of your home state license. Other states where you hold compact privileges do not impose additional CE requirements.
Can students or clinical fellows use the compact?
Not yet. Only fully licensed SLPs and audiologists are eligible. You must have completed all licensure requirements, including your clinical fellowship, before using the compact.
What happens if I move to a different state?
Not yet. Only fully licensed SLPs and audiologists are eligible. You must have completed all licensure requirements, including your clinical fellowship, before using the compact.
Does the compact override state-specific laws or certifications?
No. You must still follow each state’s specific regulations regarding practice. For example, some states may have unique requirements for school-based SLPs or telehealth consent. The compact gives you permission to practice—but you’re still expected to comply with all local laws.
Final Thoughts
The Interstate Compact on Speech-Language Pathology is a much-needed innovation for the profession: maintaining high standards, while removing some unnecessary blocks. Whether you intend to practice in person, telepractice, or in more than one state, the compact makes it easier to build your career and meet more people. As the system goes live in 2025, it is essential to stay informed more than ever, so check your state’s licensing board, the official ASLP-IC website, and ASHA for updates. For anyone considering a degree or career in SLP, the compact is one more positive reason to look forward to the future of the profession.
