Licensing Information

Audiology and Speech Language Pathology licensure requirements effective January 1, 2003

Substitute House Bill 2589 adopted by the 2002 Legislature changes the Audiology and Speech Language Pathology credentialing requirements. This legislation changes the current voluntary certification to mandatory licensure effective January 1, 2003. All individuals practicing in Washington State as an Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist must become licensed by January 1, 2003. Individuals who are certified as Educational Staff Associates by the Washington State Board of Education are excluded from the mandatory licensure, but may choose to become licensed by the Department of Health.

The education requirements, examination requirements and fees for Audiologists and Speech Language Pathologists were not changed by this legislation.

*All licenses expire and renew on your birthdate. This initial license will be valid until your next birthdate unless your birthdate falls within 90 days of the first issue date. If your birthdate falls within 90 days of the first issue date, your license will be valid for an additional year.

Hearing Instrument Fitter/Dispenser Education Requirements effective January 1, 2003

Effective January 1, 2003 the education requirements for hearing instrument fitter/dispenser licensure applicants changed from a six-month apprenticeship program to a two-year degree in hearing instrument fitter/dispenser instruction.

All existing apprenticeship permits were terminated on December 31, 2002, and no new permits will be issued.

Applicants for licensure must successfully complete a minimum of a two-year degree program in hearing instrument fitter/dispenser instruction through a program approved by the Board of Hearing and Speech.

There are currently two Board approved programs:

• Spokane Falls Technical Community College
• Bates Technical College

License Renewal

Licensure for audiologists and speech-language pathologists and hearing instrument fitter/dispensers expire annually on the date of birth. Renewals are considered timely if postmarked on or before the expiration date. Courtesy renewal notices are sent approximately 30 days prior to the expiration date. However, the provider is responsible for renewing his or her license prior to the expiration date. Licenses that are allowed to expire are subject to an additional late renewal penalty fee.