- Share Story
-
-
-
The healthcare landscape is evolving, and for audiologists and speech-language pathologists (SLPs), the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) is a game-changer. Imagine a future where practitioners can seamlessly provide services across state lines, broadening their reach and helping more clients than ever before. The ASLP-IC is paving the way for that future, offering exciting opportunities and new possibilities for professionals in these fields.
Brief Overview of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
For those who may be new to the various therapy careers in healthcare, audiologists are healthcare professionals who help treat hearing and balance disorders. Meanwhile, speech-language pathologists help clients deal with problems related to speaking, communication and swallowing. Because hearing and speech are such vital capabilities in education, work and socialization, the work these two professionals do can greatly improve a patient’s quality of life.
Related: Top 10 Pros and Cons of Being a Speech-Language Pathologist
Both of these therapy careers are growing rapidly and pay well. SLPs and audiologists are sixth and 12th, respectively, on our list of fastest-growing healthcare careers in 2025. Meanwhile, the average salary for audiologist staff roles was $52.82 hourly based on the average offered in jobs posted to Vivian Health during our research on December 21, 2024. The average speech-language pathologist salary was $51.36 hourly during the same time period.
What Is the ASLP-IC and Why Does It Matter?
The ASLP-IC, called the SLP Compact by some, is a pending agreement between participating states allowing licensed audiologists and SLPs to practice across state boundaries without additional licenses. Its goal is to improve access to services, enhance public protection and facilitate better continuity of care. Numerous healthcare organizations and universities across the United States have backed the Compact’s creation.
Notably, 34 states have already agreed to join the Compact, but it’s not yet open to applicants. Applications for Compact privileges should start being accepted in mid-to-late 2025, but the exact date has yet to be published.
Once active and open to applicants, an audiologist or SLP licensed in a Compact state can apply for Compact privileges. If approved, the audiologist or SLP can work in any other state in the Compact without applying for another license. For more details, visit the official ASLP-IC website to view new information as it becomes available in the coming months.
The audiology and SLP Interstate Compact isn’t just about convenience. It expands job mobility, addresses workforce shortages and allows clients to maintain relationships with their providers even when they move across states. Additionally, it strengthens telehealth possibilities, offering more flexibility for both practitioners and clients.
Meanwhile, the Compact opens a world of opportunities for SLPs and audiologists. These include greater ease and opportunities in working travel roles from state to state, taking employment in multistate telehealth and exploring options for flexible scheduling that telehealth enables.
Where Does Your State Stand?
State participation in the ASLP-IC is growing, but not all states have joined. For instance, at the time of our research, six states had pending legislation to join the 34 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands already in the Compact. However, this legislation had not yet passed.
Staying informed can help you anticipate changes and prepare for new practice opportunities. Check the latest state participation map to see if your state has already agreed to participate in the Compact.
Source: ASLP-IC Website, January 2025
At the time of our writing, the following states were NOT participating in the Compact:
- Arizona (Legislation Pending)
- California
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Nevada (Legislation Pending)
- New Jersey (Legislation Pending)
- New Mexico (Legislation Pending)
- New York
- North Dakota
- Oregon (Legislation Pending)
- Pennsylvania (Legislation Pending)
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Washington D.C.
Are You Eligible to Join the Compact?
Eligibility for the ASLP-IC is based on specific criteria. First, the state you reside in must be participating in the Compact. Practitioners must hold an active, unencumbered license in their home (Compact-participating) state and meet essential educational and professional requirements. These include having an accredited degree in your field, completing a supervised practicum and passing a national examination in the field. To further determine eligibility, visit the ASLP-IC FAQ Page.
Joining the Compact: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applications for ASLP-IC privileges are expected to launch later in 2025. The process will involve submitting relevant documentation and fees determined by each state. You can usually learn more by visiting your state’s Board of Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology website, often governed by the same regulatory agency. Also, keep an eye on the ALSP Compact website for updates and detailed instructions throughout the year.
Practicing Across State Lines: Legal and Ethical Considerations
Cross-state practice comes with legal and ethical responsibilities. The ASLP-IC upholds high standards to protect clients and maintain professional integrity. It establishes clear jurisdiction guidelines and reinforces accountability for practitioners.
Notably, you must always abide by the scope of practice in the state where you’re practicing. When conducting telehealth that crosses state lines, you must follow the rules that apply in the state where your patient is located, not your location. Therefore, you have a duty to keep abreast of the rules where you intend to practice. If the state you plan to practice in has a required jurisprudence exam to test your knowledge of that state’s rules, you must take and pass the exam before practicing there.
Expanding Telehealth Opportunities
The ASLP-IC opens the door to greater use of telehealth in audiology and speech-language pathology. It’ll allow practitioners who live in participating states to serve clients remotely across state lines, as long as those patients are also located in participating states. This fosters increased access to care, especially in underserved areas.
Telehealth under the Compact will require adherence to technology standards and best practices to ensure quality services. It also fosters increased job flexibility for audiologists and SLPs who may want to work “on-demand” or use flexible schedules via a telehealth platform.
Of course, we’re mindful that with current technology, not all audiology and SLP therapy can be delivered via telemedicine. Patients will still need to be present in a clinical setting for certain services, such as hearing tests or evaluating swallowing. Nevertheless, telehealth will help open up more straightforward and convenient access for some areas of speech and hearing therapy.
Staying Compliant: Continuing Education and Beyond
Continuing education (CE) is essential for maintaining Compact privileges because it’s generally required to maintain licensure in your home state. Practitioners must fulfill CE requirements and stay updated on evolving Compact regulations. Compliance strategies will be vital for successful multistate practice. Check with your home state’s regulatory board to stay abreast of ongoing CE requirements needed in your home state for license renewal.
What Lies Ahead for the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact
As more states join the ASLP Compact, its influence on the industry could grow markedly. Notably, several high-population states like California, Texas and New York aren’t currently participating. If and when they join, it could prompt all states to participate for fear of being left out of the talent pool. Meanwhile, future expansions and policy updates will shape the Compact to better address emerging needs, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for practitioners and clients alike.
The Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact represents a monumental shift in how audiologists and SLPs can practice, opening doors to unprecedented flexibility and growth. Staying informed and proactive will be key to unlocking the full potential of this transformative initiative.
Related: Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA) Career Guide
Vivian Health partners with health systems and staffing agencies across the nation that post jobs for speech-language pathologists and audiologists in staff and travel roles. Download the Vivian app to start searching for your dream job.
