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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
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 baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $69,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $59,470 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $63,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, 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. License status indicator: Active. 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/.