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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
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 Iowa eligibility requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing~Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $58,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $62,470 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $59,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $56,640 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $64,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $53,400 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Illinois | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Nebraska | 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 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
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $385,010 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $49,700 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
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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 Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Professional Counselor license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.