Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for marriage and family therapist in California, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Marriage and Family Therapist in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Behavioral Sciences
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$63,780 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Behavioral Sciences.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 63,780, Marriage and Family Therapists in California earn 0% above the national median of 63780. California ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$63,780Hourly estimate
$30.660% above national median
Difference: +$0
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMarriage and Family Therapist Salary Ranking
#18 of 50 statesfor Marriage and Family Therapist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 135,870 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 89,030 |
| #3 | Utah | 81,170 |
| #4 | Virginia | 80,670 |
| #5 | Oregon | 79,890 |
Nearby States Comparison
Marriage and Family Therapist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $63,780 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $79,890 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $63,780 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $52,420 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Behavioral Sciences
1625 N Market Blvd., Suite S-200, Sacramento, CA, 95834
Phone: 9165747830
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Marriage and Family Therapist in California?
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 is the typical Marriage and Family Therapist salary in California?
The median annual salary for Marriage and Family Therapists in California is 63,780. Salaries range from 44430 (10th percentile) to 121700 (90th percentile).
How does the Marriage and Family Therapist salary in California compare to the national average?
Marriage and Family Therapists in California earn 0% above the national median of 63780, with a state median of 63,780.
How many Marriage and Family Therapists work in California?
California employs approximately 32070 Marriage and Family Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Marriage and Family Therapists in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Behavioral Sciences. Review agency details at https://www.bbs.ca.gov/.