A formal interstate compact for speech-language pathologists is in development. Until it's active, travel SLPs must complete full endorsement applications in every state. Here's where things stand and what to expect.
Efforts to establish a formal Speech-Language Pathology interstate compact have been ongoing, led in part by ASHA and state SLP associations. Legislative activity in multiple states has been documented. However, as of early 2026, a fully operational nationwide SLP compact similar to the PT and OT compacts is not yet available in most states.
Check ASHA.org for the most current updates on SLP compact legislation and implementation timelines.
| State Type | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Fast states (MT, WY, ND, SD, ID) | 2–3 weeks |
| Standard states | 4–6 weeks |
| Complex states (CA, NY, FL) | 8–14 weeks |
ASHA's Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) is separate from state licensure but is typically required by travel agencies and hospitals. Maintaining your CCC-SLP also simplifies endorsement applications in most states since it verifies your educational and clinical credentials centrally through ASHA.
Based on the PT and OT Compact models, an SLP compact would likely require an active home state license, active ASHA CCC-SLP, and a clean disciplinary history to activate practice privileges in member states — similar to the OT Compact's NBCOT requirement.
The timeline is uncertain. Legislative processes in individual states must pass bills authorizing participation, and then an administrative body must be established to operationalize the compact. Check ASHA.org for current legislative updates. Some state-specific compact legislation may be passed before a fully nationwide system is operational.
Some states do process endorsement applications faster than others — Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Idaho are known for relatively fast processing (2–4 weeks). Building a portfolio of licenses in these faster states can give you more flexible options while waiting for complex state applications.
Most travel SLP positions through staffing agencies require active ASHA CCC-SLP. Hospital, school, and most outpatient settings list CCC-SLP as a requirement. Clinical fellowship positions (CF-SLP) are sometimes available for new grads in travel settings, but with fewer options. Confirm requirements with your recruiter.