Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$60,880 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#17 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 60,880, Licensed Professional Counselors in Iowa earn 3% above the national median of $59,190. Iowa ranks #17 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$60,880Hourly estimate
$29.273% above national median
Difference: +$1,690
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#17 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $60,880 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $58,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $62,470 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $59,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $56,640 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $64,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $53,400 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5157259022
Related Careers in Iowa
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|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Iowa?
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 exams are required for Licensed Professional Counselors in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Professional Counselors.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in Iowa is 60,880. Salaries range from $43,840 (10th percentile) to $89,840 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in Iowa earn 3% above the national median of $59,190, with a state median of 60,880.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 3,030 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Professional Counselors in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau. Review agency details at http://www.plb.iowa.gov/.