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US Psychologist License & International Graduates

Meet requirements to obtain a psychologist license in America.

To become a professional psychologist in the US, you need a state-issued license. Each state maintains its own licensing board or department that establishes that state’s standards for professional licensure. Contact the board of the state you wish to practice in to confirm your qualifications.

Education Requirements

Before you can obtain a psychologist license, you must meet certain requirements.

One of these requirements is that you graduated from a program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). If you did not attend an APA-approved program, most states will request translations of academic transcripts for evaluation. They will determine if your education and experience meet US standards.

Many states also require non-English speaking applicants to take an exam, such as the TOEFL, demonstrating proficiency in that language.

It’s important to note certain exemptions and restrictions regarding the term “psychologist.” Generally,  psychologists who are self-employed or sell their services to the public must hold a doctorate — either a PhD or a PsyD. Those who work in residential treatment facilities, corporate agencies, or marriage and family counseling hold a lesser degree (typically a master’s degree). They are referred to as therapists.

Psychologists who teach in a university do not need a license in most states.

Experience Requirements for a Psychologist License

In addition to a doctorate, those seeking a psychologist license must have certifiable experience. This usually means two years of supervised training under a practicing psychologist.

One year is devoted to a clinical internship and the other to a psychologist residency. The purpose of the internship is to strengthen your skills in four critical categories:

• Treatment
• Assessment
• Consultation
• Supervision

The residency then applies these skills in a professional setting with regular patient interaction.

Examination For Professional Practice In Psychology (EPPP)

This exam is the final step toward a psychologist license. It is a computer-based, 225-question test of your competence to practice psychology in the US. It includes eight sections:

• Biological bases of behavior
• Cognitive-affective bases
• Social and multi-cultural bases
• Growth and life-span development
• Assessment and diagnosis
• Treatment, intervention and prevention
• Research methods and statistics
• Ethical and professional conduct

Once you pass this exam, you can apply for licensure. Again, you are encouraged to contact the board of the state you wish to practice in for additional details about getting a license to become a psychologist in the US.

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