Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for speech-language pathologist in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Speech-Language Pathologist in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$116,000 median (22% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 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 California
With a median salary of 116,000, Speech-Language Pathologists in California earn 22% above the national median of $95,410. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$116,000Hourly estimate
$55.7722% above national median
Difference: +$20,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSpeech-Language Pathologist Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Speech-Language Pathologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 116,000 |
| #2 | New York | 108,870 |
| #3 | Hawaii | 108,230 |
| #4 | Colorado | 108,070 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 104,910 |
Nearby States Comparison
Speech-Language Pathologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $116,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $104,230 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $100,840 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $95,990 | Varies by state board | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 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 Consumer Affairs • Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board
1601 Response Road, Suite 260, Sacramento, CA, 95815
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Speech-Language Pathologist in California?
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 is the typical Speech-Language Pathologist salary in California?
The median annual salary for Speech-Language Pathologists in California is 116,000. Salaries range from $67,150 (10th percentile) to $153,930 (90th percentile).
How does the Speech-Language Pathologist salary in California compare to the national average?
Speech-Language Pathologists in California earn 22% above the national median of $95,410, with a state median of 116,000.
How many Speech-Language Pathologists work in California?
California employs approximately 14,680 Speech-Language Pathologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Speech-Language Pathologist license to California 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 Speech-Language Pathologists in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board. Review agency details at https://www.speechandhearing.ca.gov/.