Fingerprint-based national background checks may cause a delay in licensing or certification. Individuals who satisfy all other licensing or certification requirements and qualifications may receive a temporary practice permit while the national background check is completed.

(1) A temporary practice permit may be issued to an applicant who:

(a) Holds an unrestricted, active license or certification to practice as a speech-language pathologist, speech-language pathology assistant, audiologist, or hearing aid specialist in another state that has substantially equivalent licensing or certification standards to those in Washington state;

(b) Is not subject to denial of a license or certification or issuance of a conditional or restricted license or certification; and

(c) Does not have a criminal record in Washington state.

(2) A temporary practice permit grants the individual the full scope of practice under this chapter.

(3) A temporary practice permit will not be renewed, reissued, or extended. A temporary practice permit expires when any one of the following occurs:

(a) The license or certification is granted;

(b) A notice of decision on application is mailed to the applicant, unless the notice of decision on the application specifically extends the duration of the temporary practice permit; or

(c) One hundred eighty days after the temporary practice permit is issued.

(4) To receive a temporary practice permit, the applicant must:

(a) Submit the necessary application, fee(s), and documentation for the license or certification.

(b) Meet all requirements and qualifications for the license or certification, except the results from a fingerprint-based national background check, if required.

(c) Provide verification of having an active unrestricted license or certification to practice as a speech-language pathologist, speech-language pathology assistant, audiologist, or hearing aid specialist from another state that has substantially equivalent licensing or certification standards as Washington state.

(d) Submit the fingerprint card and a written request for a temporary practice permit when the department notifies the applicant the national background check is required.