Conquer your Continuing Education (CEUs): A Stress-Free Guide for SLPs


Speech-language pathologist overwhelmed by CCC renewal research in library.


Are CEUs, PDHs, and CCCs stressing you out? You're not alone! But fret no more! Maintaining your Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) is crucial for keeping your skills sharp and providing the best possible care to your clients. 

This guide will break down the process into a stress-free experience, making CCC renewal a breeze. Keep reading for a link to a treasure trove of free and low-cost CEU opportunities!

CCC renewal checklist on clipboard with checkmarks for completed tasks.
Staying Sharp: Your 3-Year CCC Renewal Checklist

Every 3 years, you'll need to complete specific requirements to maintain your CCC. Here's a handy checklist to keep you on track:
  • Earn 30 Hours of Continuing Education: This is where ASHA CEUs and PDHs come in. 
    • 2 hours must focus on cultural competency, diversity, equity, or inclusion to ensure you're providing inclusive care for all clients.
    • 1 hour Ethics training is also required.
  • Keep track of your PDHs that are not submitted to the registry (it would be wise to keep track of all courses, even CEUs, in case they aren't submitted properly). 
    •  ASHA offers a free PDH tracking spreadsheet to help you track your PDHs. 
    •  You will need a certificate of completion for each course or a college transcript if they are not submitted to the registry, in the case of an audit.  
  • Submit a Compliance Form online for courses not on the Registry when you renew. This is just you verifying that you completed all hours. 
  • Pay Annual Dues or Fee: Maintain your ASHA membership, increased to $250 for 2025.
  • Uphold the ASHA Code of Ethics: Stay professional and ethical in your practice.

Speech-language pathologist relaxes in chair, satisfied after viewing CEUs on computer screen.
Understanding ASHA CEUs: Your Gold Standard for Learning

  • The Standard Unit: An ASHA CEU represents 10 hours of participation in an ASHA-approved continuing education program (excluding breaks).
  • How to Get Them: Attend an ASHA-registered course and request CEUs. The provider will submit your information to the ASHA CE Registry, which awards the credits and updates your transcript. 
  • Important: CEUs can only be earned through the ASHA CE Registry, which is an additional fee on top of the renewal fee.

Benefits of ASHA CEU registry:

  • Convenience: Track your progress easily and securely through the ASHA CE Registry.
  • State Licensure: Most state boards accept the ASHA CE transcript for license renewal
    • Important! The number of hours or interval may be different (check your state's specifics).
  • CCC Maintenance: ASHA CEUs fulfill the 30-hour requirement for maintaining your CCC without any further documentation.
  • ACE Award (see more below): requires CE Registry

PDHs: A Broader Category for Expanding Your Skills

PDHs track your participation in various learning activities beyond ASHA-approved CEUs. These activities can still enhance your knowledge and skills as an SLP and count toward the continuing education requirement.
  • 1 PDH = 60 minutes of active learning or participation.
    • Non-ASHA CEU Activities: Use PDHs for activities that aren't ASHA-approved but contribute to your development (e.g., conferences, workshops, teacher professional development).
  • 1 CEU = 10 PDHs
  • Academic Coursework: PDHs can also be earned through coursework (check conversion rates for semesters and quarters).

photo of an empty wallet to correspond with the section on free and low cost CEU resources
Free and Low-Cost CEU Resources to the Rescue!

Conquer your CCC renewal without breaking the bank! We've compiled a comprehensive list of free and low-cost CEU resources. Check out my dedicated webpage for a mix of valuable options to fit your learning preferences and budget.

The ASHA Award for Continuing Education (ACE): Going the Extra Mile

The ASHA Award for Continuing Education (ACE) recognizes SLPs who go above and beyond by completing 70 hours (7.0 CEUs) of ASHA-approved continuing education courses within 3 years. This prestigious award demonstrates your dedication to lifelong learning and excellence in the field.  However, this only includes courses on the CE Registry.

Red and gold ASHA Award for Continuing Education (ACE) certificate.
Note that ASHA says to allow at least 90 days from the date you completed your last course before receiving your notification of the ACE award.   In my experience, courses show up on my CE transcript months before they show up on my ACE transcript.  

Benefits of the ACE Award include recognition on the ASHA website, award documentation, name submission to the state association, and 10% discount on ASHA's professional liability insurance.

By staying up-to-date with these guidelines and taking advantage of the available resources, you can ensure your CCC remains active and your skills remain sharp! This allows you to continue providing top-notch care to your clients. Feeling overwhelmed? Share this post with your fellow SLPs, and don't hesitate to ask any questions in the comments below!

Mrs. Speech

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