Audiologist - Frequently Asked Questions | Washington State Department of Health

General | Continuing Education | Surety Bonds

General

Why are FBI background checks required for application?

New Policy on FBI Background Checks for Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathologist Applicants

We are excited to announce that Washington has joined the Audiology Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC), an interstate agreement designed to facilitate the practice of licensed audiologists and speech-language pathologists across state lines. This compact allows audiologists and speech-language pathologists with a valid and unrestricted license in a member state to provide hearing and speech services both in-person and via telehealth in other member states. By participating in the Compact, we aim to improve public access to hearing and speech services, support military families, and enhance the exchange of licensure information among states. Join us in embracing this innovative approach to health care!

As part of this compact, Washington is required to obtain fingerprint-based background checks for licensing purposes. This check is done through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Therefore, beginning July 1, 2026, all new applicants, regardless of route to licensure, will be required to undergo a fingerprint background check through the FBI. Once you have submitted your application, you will receive instructions on how to complete the background check process.

Additionally, if a current Washington licensed audiologist or speech-language pathologist wishes to pursue compact privileges in another state through the Compact, they will be required to obtain a background check through the FBI prior to being eligible for the compact privilege. If you did not have an FBI background check as part of your original application process, please contact our credentialing staff to complete prior to seeking a compact privilege in another state.

What is the process for having a verification of my Washington audiologist practitioner license sent to another jurisdiction?

Submit a written request with the certification fee in a check or money order made payable to:

Department of Health
Board of Hearing and Speech
P.O. Box 1099
Olympia, WA 98507-1099

Continuing Education

Where can I get more information about my continuing education requirements?: Find all continuing education details on the audiologist continuing education webpage.

Surety Bonds

I have never had to have a bond in the past. Why do I have to have one now?

After legal analysis and review by the board, it was determined that RCW 18.35.240 requires that all licensed audiologists and fitter/dispensers have a bond or security in lieu of a bond. We are bringing this into compliance by providing the notice on all renewal cards. The board does not have the legal authority to “exempt” some licensees from a statutory directive.

I have Malpractice Insurance. Why do I also have to have a surety bond?

RCW 18.35.250(1) states, “In addition to other legal remedies, an action may be brought in any competent jurisdiction upon the bond, cash deposit, or security in lieu of a surety bond…by any person having a claim against a licensee or interim permit holder…”. This means that there are other legal remedies available to protect the public. The other remedies (malpractice insurance, school district insurance, Federal Tort Claims Act, etc.) are in addition to a potential action against a bond/security.

The board reviewed and considered options for bond/security and insurance coverage, including coverage of federal employees. As a federal employee, you do not need to obtain a license according to RCW 18.35.195(1) and RCW 18.122.040(2). If you wish to obtain a license, you are subject to all of the licensing requirements, including the bond/security requirement. The license is your option to engage in private practice outside of federal employment.

I am covered by the school district’s or College/University’s insurance. Why do I also have to have a surety bond?

I am covered by the Federal Tort Claims Act. Why do I also have to have a surety bond?

RCW 18.35.250(1) states, “In addition to other legal remedies, an action may be brought in any competent jurisdiction upon the bond, cash deposit, or security in lieu of a surety bond…by any person having a claim against a licensee or interim permit holder…”. This means that there are other legal remedies available to protect the public. The other remedies (malpractice insurance, school district insurance, Federal Tort Claims Act, etc.)are in addition to a potential action against a bond/security.

What is a surety bond?

A surety bond is obtained through an insurance company. It protects patients. A patient may bring an action in Superior Court against a licensee for damages. This is different from filing a complaint with the Department or exercising a claim under another type of insurance or legal remedy. If you are audited, you must provide verification that you are covered by a surety bond.

Can my employer obtain a surety bond that would cover me?

Yes, your employer may obtain a bond to cover employees. The bond must cover each employee for a minimum of $10,000. If you are audited, you must provide verification that you are covered by a surety bond (your name must be listed on the bond).

What is security in lieu of a surety bond?

You may deposit cash or other negotiable security in the amount of at least $10,000 in a banking institution or a credit union. If audited, you must provide documentation that cash or other negotiable security is held in a banking institution or credit union.

I am an audiologist, and I don’t dispense hearing aids. Why do I have to have a bond?

Audiologists have the full scope of fitting and dispensing hearing instruments in their practice (RCW 18.35.010(8). An audiologist can engage in the practice of fitting and dispensing at any time and is required to have a bond per RCW 18.35.240(5). There is no legal authority to allow the board to “exempt” some licensees.

What happens if I don’t have a bond or security in lieu of a bond?

You must verify compliance with a bond or security in lieu of a bond upon annual renewal of your license. Your license will not be renewed without this attestation. The Board of Hearing and Speech can randomly audit compliance with the bond/security requirement. Failure to comply with the audit documentation request or failure to supply acceptable documentation within thirty days may result in disciplinary action.

What other options do I have?

You may choose to move your license from active to inactive status. An inactive license means that you maintain your license, but you will not be practicing in Washington.