Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Behavioral Sciences
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,310 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Behavioral Sciences and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $61,310, Licensed Professional Counselors in California earn 4% above the national median of $59,190. California ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$61,310Hourly estimate
$29.484% above national median
Difference: +$2,120
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#15 of 50 statesfor Licensed Professional Counselor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $79,220 |
| #2 | New Mexico | $70,770 |
| #3 | Oregon | $69,660 |
| #4 | North Dakota | $66,450 |
| #5 | Utah | $65,920 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Professional Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $61,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $69,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $59,470 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $63,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Behavioral Sciences
1625 N Market Blvd., Suite S-200, Sacramento, CA, 95834
Phone: 9165747830
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $77,640 | Varies by state board | 1-2 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | 1-12 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $74,150 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in California?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in California is $61,310. Salaries range from $44,190 (10th percentile) to $118,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in California compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in California earn 4% above the national median of $59,190, with a state median of $61,310.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in California?
California employs approximately 63,110 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Professional Counselors in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Behavioral Sciences. Review agency details at https://www.bbs.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Professional Counselor license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.