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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 17, 2026

Current

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Speech-Language Pathologist in California

Estimated timeline: Varies by board

Core Requirements

  1. 1

    Education: Varies by state board.

  2. 2

    License Type: Register with licensing agency.

Exam and processing details

  • State-approved exam

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Consumer Affairs • Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $116,000 median (22% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #1 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Speech-Language Pathologist licensure.
  2. 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
  3. 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
  4. 4. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board and monitor board communications.

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 Varies by board.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Steady

QoQ Employment Change

+1.4%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,758

Median annual salary

$116,000

Hourly estimate

$55.77
22% above national median

Difference: +$20,590

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$67,150
  • P2525th percentile$95,830
  • P50Median$116,000
  • P7575th percentile$132,390
  • P9090th percentile$153,930

State vs National Median

State: $116,000
National: $95,410

Total employment: 14,680 | Annual openings: N/A

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary Ranking

#1 of 50 statesfor Speech-Language Pathologist median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1California$116,000
#2New York$108,870
#3Hawaii$108,230
#4Colorado$108,070
#5New Mexico$104,910

Nearby States Comparison

Speech-Language Pathologist licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
California$116,000Varies by state boardState-approved examVaries by board
Oregon$104,230Varies by state boardState-approved examVaries by board
Nevada$100,840Degree requiredThird-party exam requiredVaries by board
Arizona$95,990Varies by state boardState-approved examVaries by board

License by Endorsement

Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
California78HighBoard-specific review required.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
Nevada68MediumState-specific exam conditions may apply.
Arizona78HighBoard-specific review required.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Official website verified

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

Visit Official WebsiteOpen in Maps

Related Careers in California

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Acupuncturist$77,640Varies by state board1-2 years
AnesthesiologistN/AVaries by state board1-12 months
Athletic Trainer$74,150Varies by state boardVaries by board
Audiologist$123,600Varies by state boardVaries by board

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Speech-Language Pathologist in California?

Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.

How often do you renew a Speech-Language Pathologist license in California?

Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.