How to Get a Speech-Language Pathologist License in Louisiana (2026)

Louisiana is not a member of the SLP Compact (ASLP-IC), which means all out-of-state SLPs must complete a full endorsement application. There is no rapid practice-privilege pathway. Licensing is handled by the Louisiana Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. Major employers include Ochsner Health (the state's largest private employer), Tulane Medical Center, Our Lady of the Lake Health, and LSU Health New Orleans.

Louisiana SLP license at a glance

• Issuing board: Louisiana Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
• SLP Compact member: No
• Endorsement processing time: 8-12 weeks
• Application fee: ~$150
• ASHA CCC-SLP required: Yes

Full endorsement process

Because Louisiana has not joined the ASLP-IC Compact, every applicant must complete the full endorsement process regardless of how many state licenses they hold. The Louisiana Board requires: (1) a completed application form, (2) official transcripts from an ASHA-accredited graduate program, (3) ASHA CCC-SLP verification sent directly from ASHA, (4) verification of licensure in good standing from every state where you currently or previously held an SLP license, (5) a Louisiana State Police criminal background check, and (6) the ~$150 application fee. Processing typically takes 8-12 weeks from receipt of a complete application. Louisiana does not issue provisional or temporary SLP permits, so begin your application at least 3-4 months before your intended start date. Ochsner Health and LSU Health facilities have in-house credentialing teams that can assist new hires in navigating the timeline.

Louisiana SLP compensation 2026

Where SLP demand is highest in Louisiana

New Orleans is the state's premier SLP market, dominated by Ochsner Health's flagship Medical Center, Tulane Medical Center, and LSU Health New Orleans, all offering strong acute-care and academic SLP programs. Baton Rouge (Our Lady of the Lake Health) is the second major market, with consistent acute-care and outpatient SLP demand. Shreveport (Ochsner LSU Health and Willis-Knighton Health) rounds out the top-three. Rural Louisiana, particularly the central and northern parishes, faces meaningful SLP shortages, and school districts statewide report persistent vacancies. The state's large SNF sector also maintains reliable SLP demand year-round.

Bottom line

Louisiana's non-compact status means a longer credentialing timeline. Submit your application to the Board 3-4 months before your target start date, confirm your ASHA CCC-SLP is current, and budget the $150 fee. New Orleans and Baton Rouge offer strong acute-care SLP careers, and rural parishes provide meaningful signing incentives for those willing to serve underserved communities.

Related guides: SLP License in Mississippi | OT License in Louisiana