Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Psychologist Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for psychologist in Pennsylvania, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Psychology Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$126,460 median (8% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 126,460, Psychologists in Pennsylvania earn 8% above the national median of $117,580. Pennsylvania ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$126,460Hourly estimate
$60.808% above national median
Difference: +$8,880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPsychologist Salary Ranking
#16 of 50 statesfor Psychologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 147,650 |
| #2 | Oklahoma | 147,010 |
| #3 | Nevada | 144,390 |
| #4 | Nebraska | 137,990 |
| #5 | North Carolina | 137,130 |
Nearby States Comparison
Psychologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $126,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $113,730 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $124,800 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $117,580 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $123,490 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $41,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $131,310 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Jersey | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Psychology Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837155
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Psychologist in Pennsylvania?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Psychologists in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Psychologists.
What education do you need to become a Psychologist in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Psychologist licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Psychologist salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Psychologists in Pennsylvania is 126,460. Salaries range from $60,340 (10th percentile) to $153,860 (90th percentile).
How does the Psychologist salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Psychologists in Pennsylvania earn 8% above the national median of $117,580, with a state median of 126,460.
How many Psychologists work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 520 Psychologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Psychologist license to Pennsylvania from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Psychologists in Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Psychology Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Psychology/Pages/default.aspx.