The jurisprudence examination ensures that licensed hearing and speech professionals understand the Washington laws and regulations governing their practice.
As of today, passing the jurisprudence examination is required for initial licensure or certification as a:
Applicants must successfully complete the exam before a license or certification is issued. Each examination is based on the relevant statutes and regulations, including RCW 18.35 and WAC 246-828. The Department of Health provides open-book access to these materials during the exam. Resources and exam details are available on the Department’s profession-specific webpages
The Board has approved a rule change that would transition the jurisprudence examination from a one-time licensing requirement to a continuing education obligation. Under the approved rule:
The Department has not yet filed the CR-103 (Rulemaking Order of Adoption), the final step in the rulemaking process. Once filed, the CR-103 will include the final rule language, a concise explanatory statement summarizing public comments and Board responses, and an effective date. Rules generally take effect 31 days after filing unless otherwise stated.
The Board will notify all licensees and stakeholders once the CR-103 is filed and the effective date is confirmed.
To review current requirements or prepare for the jurisprudence examination, visit the Department of Health’s licensing pages:
For updates on the rulemaking process, visit the Board of Hearing and Speech Rulemaking Page.