Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
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
- Background Check: Any conviction is prohibited
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,170 median (19% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 48,170, Licensed Professional Counselors in Tennessee earn 19% below the national median of $59,190. Tennessee ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$48,170Hourly estimate
$23.1619% below national median
Difference: -$11,020
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#47 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $48,170 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $51,790 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $58,410 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $56,470 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $55,320 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $48,880 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $46,810 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $49,990 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $56,640 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 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. |
| North Carolina | 50 | 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. |
| Alabama | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
"665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd Floor", Na, 000TN-7243
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in Tennessee is 48,170. Salaries range from $30,890 (10th percentile) to $75,240 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in Tennessee earn 19% below the national median of $59,190, with a state median of 48,170.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 7,310 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.