Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Psychologist Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for psychologist in Tennessee, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Psychologist in Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: Background check required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$135,570 median (15% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 135,570, Psychologists in Tennessee earn 15% above the national median of $117,580. Tennessee ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,297Median annual salary
$135,570Hourly estimate
$65.1815% above national median
Difference: +$17,990
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPsychologist Salary Ranking
#7 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $135,570 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $124,550 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $125,630 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $137,130 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $113,730 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $134,370 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $111,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $118,600 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $127,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Kentucky | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor, Nashville, TN, 37243-1010
Phone: 6152535087
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Psychologist in Tennessee?
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 education do you need to become a Psychologist in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Psychologist licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Psychologist salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Psychologists in Tennessee is 135,570. Salaries range from $72,280 (10th percentile) to $156,330 (90th percentile).
How does the Psychologist salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Psychologists in Tennessee earn 15% above the national median of $117,580, with a state median of 135,570.
How many Psychologists work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 240 Psychologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Psychologist license to Tennessee from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Psychologists in Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.