Psychologist License in Utah
Becoming a licensed psychologist in Utah involves completing 4000 clinical hours, passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), and fulfilling state-specific requirements. The process can take several years, with costs ranging from $500 to over $3000, depending on training and exam preparation choices. Key steps include verifying prerequisites, completing a background check, and obtaining certification from the Utah Psychology Licensing Board.
Photo by Andrew Ebrahim on Unsplash
Pursuing a career as a licensed psychologist in Utah presents significant opportunities due to growing demand and attractive salary prospects. The average annual salary for psychologists in Utah is approximately $84,000, with job growth projected at 12% over the next decade, outpacing many other professions. This growth is fueled by an increasing recognition of the importance of mental health services across various sectors, including schools, corporations, and healthcare settings, making it a promising career path for those interested in this field.
Utah offers a unique set of advantages for psychologists, shaped by its specific state regulations and a supportive healthcare environment. The state requires rigorous standards for licensure which include completing a doctoral program, an internship, and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Utah's major cities host a range of public and private healthcare facilities that are significant employers of psychologists, including the University of Utah Health and Intermountain Healthcare. These institutions not only provide employment but also opportunities for professional development and specialization in various areas of psychology.
This guide will provide detailed information on how to obtain a psychologist license in Utah, outlining the necessary steps from educational requirements to certification processes. Readers will gain insights into salary expectations based on location and specialization within the state, as well as an overview of the job market, including key employers and employment trends. By offering a clear path to licensure and a realistic view of what to expect in their professional life, this guide aims to equip future psychologists with the knowledge needed to start their careers in Utah.
Licensing Authority
Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing
In Utah, obtaining a Psychologist License requires a combination of educational qualifications, supervised experience, and passing national and state-specific examinations. The license is regulated by the Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing.
Official Resources
Utah Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Doctoral degree in psychology
- Total Training Hours
- 4000 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 0 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 4000 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Two years of supervised professional experience, one of which must be post-doctoral
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- 600
How to Become a Psychologist License in Utah
EPPP exam fee $600, background check $85, application fee $145, textbooks/supplies $500, licensure fee $200
Fastest Path
2-3 years
Typical Timeline
4-6 years
Estimated Cost
$500–$3000
Verify You Meet Utah's Prerequisites
Before pursuing a psychologist license in Utah, confirm you meet the educational and age requirements. A doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program is necessary. Check your degree's accreditation status via the American Psychological Association (APA) website. You must also be at least 21 years old. Gather your academic transcripts and a government-issued ID to prove your educational background and age.
Tip
Use the APA's online database to quickly verify the accreditation status of your psychology program.
Complete a Background Check
You must complete a fingerprint-based background check, including both FBI and Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) checks. Visit a LiveScan location in Utah to have your fingerprints electronically submitted. The results typically take 2-4 weeks. Disqualifying criminal records may require you to petition for a waiver, which involves additional documentation and possibly legal counsel.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early in the process to avoid delays.
Complete 4000 Clinical Hours
Accumulate 4000 clinical hours through a postdoctoral training program approved by the Utah Psychology Licensing Board. These hours must be completed under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. Verify that your training program meets state requirements by consulting the Utah Psychology Licensing Board's website. Document all hours meticulously, as you will need to submit this information with your license application.
Tip
Keep detailed records of your clinical hours to streamline the application process.
Prepare for the EPPP
Begin studying for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). The exam consists of 225 multiple-choice questions, covering various areas of psychology. Utilize study materials, practice tests, and possibly preparatory courses. You have 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete the exam, and a passing score is set by the Utah Board.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams to track your progress and adjust your study habits accordingly.
Apply for Licensure and Schedule EPPP
After completing your clinical hours, apply for licensure with the Utah Psychology Licensing Board. Submit your application packet, which includes proof of education, supervised clinical hours, and background check results. Once your application is approved, you can schedule your EPPP exam through the ASPPB's website. Expect the application review to take several weeks.
Tip
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid processing delays.
Pass the EPPP
Take the EPPP at a designated testing center. Arrive early with two forms of ID and be prepared for a stringent security process. If you fail the EPPP, you can retake it, but you must wait 60 days between attempts and pay the exam fee again. Passing the EPPP is a critical step towards your licensure in Utah.
Tip
Review the EPPP Candidate Handbook thoroughly to understand all test day procedures and regulations.
Receive Your License
Once you pass the EPPP and your application is fully approved, the Utah Psychology Licensing Board will issue your license. This process can take a few weeks. Your license will be mailed to you, and your name will be added to the state's online registry of licensed psychologists. Verify your license status online to ensure all information is correct.
Tip
Check the Utah Psychology Licensing Board website regularly to see updates to your licensure status.
Start Your Psychology Career
With your license in hand, you can begin practicing as a psychologist in Utah. Consider various employment options such as private practice, hospitals, schools, or corporate settings. Networking with other professionals and joining psychology-related organizations can help find job opportunities. Regularly check job boards and maintain an up-to-date resume to aid your job search.
Tip
Attend local psychology conferences and workshops to network and stay informed about job openings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Applying for licensure before completing all required clinical hours will result in application denial, causing delays and possible reapplication fees.
What to Expect on Exam Day
EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology) administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 225
Time Limit: 4 hours 15 minutes
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 500 on a scale of 200-800
- • Biological Bases of Behavior - 12%
- • Cognitive-Affective Bases of Behavior - 13%
- • Social and Multicultural Bases of Behavior - 12%
- • Growth and Lifespan Development - 12%
- • Assessment and Diagnosis - 14%
- • Treatment, Intervention, Prevention, and Supervision - 14%
- • Research Methods and Statistics - 8%
- • Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues - 15%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: None
Time Per Skill: N/A
N/A
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification, one with a recent photograph
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter
- ✓ Confirmation number
- ✓ Several No. 2 pencils
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal electronic devices including cell phones, smartwatches, and calculators
- ✗ Notes or books
- ✗ Food or drink, except clear water in a transparent bottle
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes about 15 minutes. Written test lasts approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes. No scheduled breaks.
Getting Your Results
Results are available through the online portal within four weeks. Immediate preliminary results are provided at the testing center.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after a 60-day waiting period. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is no limit on the number of attempts allowed in Utah.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on mastering ethics and legal standards due to their high weight in the exam.
- 2. Practice with full-length timed mock exams to build stamina and time management skills.
- 3. Use process of elimination in multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. Review key psychological theories and diagnostic criteria extensively, as these are frequently tested.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
Bachelor's Degree Transcript
University Registrar · Varies (typically around $10-$20 per copy) · 1-2 weeks
Official transcripts must be sealed and sent directly from the educational institution.
Proof of Immunization
Personal physician or health clinic · Varies · Depends on the healthcare provider
Required immunizations include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and TB test.
CPR Certification
American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or equivalent · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies; typically one day for the course
Must be a healthcare provider-level certificate.
2During Training
Master's or Doctoral Degree Transcript
University Registrar · Varies (typically around $10-$20 per copy) · 1-2 weeks
Must be an accredited program in psychology.
Supervised Experience Verification
Direct supervisor or training director · No cost · Varies; obtain after completing supervised hours
Document must detail the number of hours completed and the nature of the work.
Background Check
Utah Department of Public Safety or approved vendor · Approximately $15-$50 · 1-3 weeks
Fingerprinting may be required.
3For the Exam
Application for Examination
Utah Psychology Licensing Board · Application fee varies (approximately $100-$200)
Must be submitted prior to scheduling the exam.
Examination Fee
Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) for the EPPP · Approximately $600
Fee is for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
Exam Scheduling Confirmation
Pearson VUE or similar testing service · No additional cost
Confirmation received after scheduling the exam.
4For Certification
License Application
Utah Psychology Licensing Board · Approximately $200-$300
Must be completed after passing the EPPP and fulfilling all educational and supervised experience requirements.
Jurisprudence Exam Completion Certificate
Utah Psychology Licensing Board · Varies (typically around $50)
Exam covers Utah-specific laws and regulations for practicing psychology.
Professional Liability Insurance Proof
Insurance provider · Varies based on coverage
Required for private practice; must meet minimum coverage standards set by the state.
Final Official Transcript Showing Degree Conferred
University Registrar · Varies (typically around $10-$20 per copy)
Must show that the degree was officially awarded.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your license status on the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing website. Collect your official license certificate from the state office or ensure it arrives by mail.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • American Psychological Association (APA) job board, Utah Psychological Association website, Indeed, LinkedIn
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, private practices, schools, and government agencies. Hospitals offer structured environments with opportunities for diverse case work, while private practices provide more control over your workload and clientele. Schools focus on child and adolescent development, and government positions often involve working with underserved populations.
Resume Tip: Highlight academic achievements, any internships or supervised experiences, relevant coursework, and soft skills like communication and empathy.
Interview Tip: Describe a challenging case and how you handled it.Explain your approach to therapy or assessment.Discuss how you stay updated with new psychological research.Share your experience with teamwork in a multidisciplinary setting.
Expected First-Year Salary
Typically, the salary range for a newly licensed psychologist in Utah is between $55,000 and $70,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Board Certified Specialist
Requires additional hours of specialized professional experience and passing a board certification exam.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Building a client base can be slow initially. Managing the administrative side of practice, like insurance and billing, poses challenges. Balancing work and personal life, especially in emotionally demanding cases, requires effort.
Psychologist License Salary in Utah
In Utah, the median annual salary for licensed psychologists is $35,000, with an hourly rate of approximately $16.83. These figures fall below the national median for psychologists.
Entry Level
$28,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$35,000
$16.83/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$55,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$33,000 national · +6.06% in Utah
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of psychologists
Growing demand in educational settings
Lower demand but rising interest in mental health services
Salary by Employer Type
Given Utah's relatively low cost of living, salaries for psychologists are modest but generally adequate for the region.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and continuing education subsidies.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for psychologists in Utah is projected to align with the national average as demand for mental health services increases.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications that add value to your role.
- •Research typical salary ranges for the area and type of employer to inform your negotiations.
Job Market in Utah
The psychologist license job market in Utah shows a promising outlook, driven by a growing population and increased awareness of mental health issues. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a national growth rate for psychologists of about 8% from 2024 to 2034. Utah's growth is expected to align closely with this projection, due to its expanding healthcare sector and demographic trends favoring an older population that may require increased psychological services.
Top Hiring Areas
Major healthcare facilities and universities drive demand.
Growing healthcare sector and university presence.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring or late fall, aligning with academic and fiscal hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Expansion in telepsychology services
- Increasing roles in integrated healthcare systems
Challenges
- Limited number of supervised hours available for licensure
- High competition for positions in urban areas
Training Programs in Utah
Utah offers diverse paths for training psychologists, focusing on accredited programs that meet state licensing requirements.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years for an associate degree | $3,000 to $10,000 per year | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 1 to 2 years | $5,000 to $15,000 total | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Salt Lake City, Utah
Strong research and clinical training
Online & Hybrid Options
Several universities offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with in-person requirements.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure eligibility for licensure.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Psychologist License program info for Utah
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
every 2 years
Renewal Fee
134
CE Hours
40 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Ethics, Suicide Prevention, Law
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Utah allows psychologists licensed in other states to apply for licensure by endorsement if they meet Utah's licensing requirements and have been in active practice.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Must have been licensed and actively practicing for at least two years
State Agreements
Utah does not specify states with formal reciprocity agreements but evaluates each application on a case-by-case basis.
Additional Exams
Possibly required
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, including proof of current licensure and practice.
Fees
150
Processing Time: 4 to 6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documentation, especially proof of supervised experience, is thorough and accurate to avoid delays.
Prepare for the EPPP exam well in advance to ensure passing on the first attempt.
Recommended Resources
EPPP Practice Exams by Academic Review
Offers a series of practice tests specifically designed to simulate the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology, focusing on core areas of psychology.
PsychPrep EPPP Practice Tests
Provides comprehensive practice exams with detailed explanations, designed to mirror the actual EPPP in format and difficulty.
EPPP Secrets Study Guide by Mometrix
This guide breaks down key concepts and test strategies, offering tips on tackling difficult questions.
ASPPB's EPPP Study Materials
Official study materials from the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards, tailored to meet the EPPP standards.
High-Quality Headphones
Needed for listening to online lectures or audio study materials without distractions.
Ergonomic Study Desk and Chair
Supports long hours of study by providing comfort and reducing strain.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Utah Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12