Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Licensed Professional Counselors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$51,790 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#40 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Kentucky eligibility requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Professional Licensing~Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $51,790, Licensed Professional Counselors in Kentucky earn 13% below the national median of $59,190. Kentucky ranks #40 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$51,790Hourly estimate
$24.9013% below national median
Difference: -$7,400
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#40 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $51,790 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $49,280 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $56,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $46,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $58,410 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $48,170 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $56,640 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $59,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Licensed Professional Counselors
500 Mero Street, 2 SC 32, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5027828803
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $82,220 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $280,130 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $51,550 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Professional Counselors.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in Kentucky is $51,790. Salaries range from $33,970 (10th percentile) to $89,690 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in Kentucky earn 13% below the national median of $59,190, with a state median of $51,790.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 8,030 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional Licensing / Board of Licensed Professional Counselors. Review agency details at http://lpc.ky.gov/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Professional Counselor license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.