Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Speech-Language Pathologist Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for speech-language pathologist in Tennessee, 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 Speech-Language Pathologist in Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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
$82,990 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 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 82,990, Speech-Language Pathologists in Tennessee earn 13% below the national median of $95,410. Tennessee ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$82,990Hourly estimate
$39.9013% below national median
Difference: -$12,420
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSpeech-Language Pathologist Salary Ranking
#31 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $82,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $82,910 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $94,370 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $87,420 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $99,100 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $72,560 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $75,790 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $79,800 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $83,950 | Degree required | State 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| 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.
- 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 Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor, Nashville, TN, 37247
Phone: 6157415735
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 Speech-Language Pathologist 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 exams are required for Speech-Language Pathologists in Tennessee?
Tennessee lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Speech-Language Pathologists.
What education do you need to become a Speech-Language Pathologist in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Speech-Language Pathologist licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Speech-Language Pathologist salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Speech-Language Pathologists in Tennessee is 82,990. Salaries range from $53,180 (10th percentile) to $111,030 (90th percentile).
How does the Speech-Language Pathologist salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Speech-Language Pathologists in Tennessee earn 13% below the national median of $95,410, with a state median of 82,990.
How many Speech-Language Pathologists work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 3,510 Speech-Language Pathologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Speech-Language Pathologist license to Tennessee 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 Speech-Language Pathologists in Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.