Passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a major accomplishment on the path to becoming a licensed psychologist. While the EPPP is a national examination, the subsequent steps to full licensure are determined by the specific state or jurisdiction in which you intend to practice.
Next Steps After Passing the EPPP
After successfully passing the EPPP, your journey toward licensure typically involves fulfilling specific requirements set by your state's Board of Psychology or equivalent regulatory body. These requirements often include a jurisprudence exam, completion of supervised experience, and a final application process.
Understanding State-Specific Requirements
It's crucial to consult the official website of the Board of Psychology in the state or territory where you are seeking licensure. Each jurisdiction has unique regulations, deadlines, and application forms. Common post-EPPP requirements across various states may include:
- Jurisprudence Examination: Many states require candidates to pass a state-specific exam that assesses knowledge of local laws, ethics, and regulations pertaining to the practice of psychology.
- Completion of Supervised Experience: If you haven't yet completed all the supervised hours mandated by your state, you will need to finalize these. Most states require a specific number of total hours, often divided into pre-doctoral and post-doctoral categories.
- Application for Licensure: Submitting a comprehensive application packet, which typically includes official transcripts, verification of supervised experience, exam scores, and background checks.
- Oral Examination: Some states may also require an oral examination in addition to written exams.
The California Example: CPLEE and Experience Verification
For candidates seeking licensure in California, passing the EPPP is followed by a critical step involving the California Psychology Law and Ethics Examination (CPLEE) and the final verification of supervised experience.
Here's a breakdown of the typical requirements for licensure in California after passing the EPPP:
- Submit the CPLEE Request Form: You will need to submit a formal request form for the CPLEE. This exam specifically covers the laws and ethical guidelines relevant to practicing psychology within California.
- Verify Supervised Professional Experience: Along with your CPLEE request, you must provide verification of your supervised professional experience. The California Board of Psychology requires a total of 3,000 hours of qualifying supervised professional experience.
- Hour Breakdown: If you have already received approval for 1,500 hours of supervised professional experience during an earlier stage of your application (e.g., Step 1 approval), you will then need to submit documentation for the remaining 1,500 hours of qualifying post-doctoral supervised professional experience. These hours must meet the specific criteria outlined by the board.
Key Requirements for California Licensure (Post-EPPP)
The table below summarizes the key post-EPPP requirements in California, focusing on the essential steps before final licensure.
| Requirement | Details (Post-EPPP in California) |
|---|---|
| State Exam | Pass the California Psychology Law and Ethics Examination (CPLEE). This exam assesses your knowledge of California-specific laws and ethical codes governing psychological practice. |
| Experience Docs | Submit comprehensive documentation verifying a total of 3,000 hours of qualifying supervised professional experience. This includes both pre-doctoral and post-doctoral hours as per board regulations. If 1,500 hours were previously approved, ensure you submit the remaining 1,500 hours of qualifying post-doctoral supervised experience at this stage. |
| Form Submission | Complete and submit the official CPLEE request form, ensuring all required sections are filled out accurately and include the necessary experience verification. |
| Application | Once both the EPPP and CPLEE are passed, and all supervised hours are verified, you can proceed with the final application for licensure. This typically involves a comprehensive review of all submitted materials and may include background checks. |
Practical Insights
- Stay Organized: Keep meticulous records of all your supervised hours, supervisor evaluations, and application documents.
- Communicate with Your Board: If you have any questions or uncertainties regarding the requirements, contact your state's Board of Psychology directly. Their staff can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- Plan Ahead: Understand the timelines for application reviews, exam scheduling, and background checks, as these can take several weeks or even months.
By diligently following the specific requirements of your chosen state, you will complete the final steps to becoming a licensed psychologist and embark on your professional career.
