Licensed psychologist
Granted by state and provincial psychology boards, not by a national exam alone. Usually a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) for independent clinical practice; school psychologists may hold a master's or Ed.S. (BLS).
Granted byState and provincial psychology boards
National exams1EPPP (Part 1–Knowledge; some boards also require Part 2–Skills)
ExperienceSupervised internship and/or postdoctoral experience, set by each board.
Other statesApply state by stateno compact list on this page
How to get licensed
Usually a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) for independent clinical practice; school psychologists may hold a master's or Ed.S. (BLS).
- High school diploma
- Bachelor's degree (psychology or related)
- Doctoral program (Ph.D./Psy.D.) with internship
- Supervised experience
- EPPPExam
- State licenseLicense
The exams
National bodies write the exams; the state board decides who is licensed. ASPPB — writes the EPPP.
- EPPP (Part 1–Knowledge; some boards also require Part 2–Skills)All 66 ASPPB member jurisdictions require EPPP Part 1. An integrated EPPP replaces the two-part format for first-time candidates from Q4 2027.
ASPPB
Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)ASPPB- Checked
- 7 Oct 2026
State rules and other states
Most states require a license to provide psychology services or use the title 'psychologist'; supervised-hour and exam rules vary.
PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact)
An interstate compact for psychologists. Margdarshan does not copy its list of participating states, so check the current list on PSYPACT's own site.
Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact →Good to know
Not always required
- Industrial-organizational psychologists and many research roles may not need a clinical license (BLS: I-O roles usually need a master's).
Changes to watch
- Integrated EPPP takes effect in Q4 2027.