Steps to Becoming a Licensed Psychologist in Texas

Psychologists are among the most highly trained mental health professionals. While many healthcare providers incorporate psychological principles into their work, only psychologists are required to hold a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D., Psy.D., or Ed.D.

Psychiatrists, by comparison, are medical doctors (M.D.s), and other professionals like counselors or social workers may hold master’s-level degrees. Psychologists, on average, complete 6–8 years of education and training beyond their undergraduate studies.

Step-by-Step Path to Licensure

Step 1: Earn a Doctoral Degree
Complete 4–6 years of graduate-level coursework in psychology, including a dissertation based on original research. Your degree must come from either an APA-accredited or regionally accredited institution.

Step 2: Pass the EPPP
All applicants must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) with a minimum score of 70%.

Step 3: Pass the Jurisprudence Exam
This exam tests your knowledge of Texas laws, board rules, and ethical practice. A minimum score of 90% is required.

Step 4: Obtain a Provisional License
After graduation, apply for Provisionally Licensed Psychologist (PLP) status. Under supervision, you’ll begin accumulating your required postdoctoral experience.

Step 5: Complete 3,500+ Supervised Hours
A total of 3,500 supervised hours is required, typically over a period of two years. One year may be completed during your doctoral program through an internship; the other occurs post-graduation.

Step 6: Apply for Licensure
Once all requirements are complete, you may apply for full licensure. Licensed psychologists must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including 6 hours in ethics and 6 hours in diversity.

What Do 3,500+ Supervised Hours Look Like?

Predoctoral Hours (1,750+)
  • Provide a broad range of therapy services
  • Build clinical judgment and ethical decision-making skills
  • Develop competency in psychological assessments
  • Handle clinical crises under supervision
  • Participate in at least 4 hours/week of clinical supervision
  • Attend weekly didactic training on core clinical topics
Postdoctoral Hours (1,750+)
  • Advance specialized skills tailored to your career goals
  • Engage in 2 hours/week of clinical supervision
  • Deepen clinical expertise through targeted didactic training
  • Extend research or scholarly work
  • Begin learning supervision and leadership skills

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