Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Public Instruction • Licensure Section
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$56,470 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 56,470, Licensed Professional Counselors in North Carolina earn 5% below the national median of $59,190. North Carolina ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$56,470Hourly estimate
$27.155% below national median
Difference: -$2,720
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#36 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $56,470 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $58,410 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $48,170 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $55,320 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $50,720 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 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
NC Department of Public Instruction • Licensure Section
301 N Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC, 27601
Phone: 8005773310
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Professional Counselors.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in North Carolina is 56,470. Salaries range from $38,440 (10th percentile) to $83,790 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in North Carolina earn 5% below the national median of $59,190, with a state median of 56,470.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 8,930 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Public Instruction / Licensure Section. Review agency details at https://www.dpi.nc.gov/educators/educators-licensure.