Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama State Department of Education
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$60,530 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 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 Alabama
With a median salary of 60,530, School Counselors in Alabama earn 7% below the national median of $65,140. Alabama ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$60,530Hourly estimate
$29.107% below national median
Difference: -$4,610
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#32 of 50 statesfor School Counselor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 94,320 |
| #2 | Washington | 83,930 |
| #3 | Alaska | 80,020 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 78,840 |
| #5 | New Jersey | 77,940 |
Nearby States Comparison
School Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $60,530 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $59,090 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $63,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $54,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $59,630 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Florida | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Alabama State Department of Education
P.O. Box 302101, Montgomery, AL, 36104
Phone: 3346944900
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $59,850 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $62,240 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $94,170 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $76,900 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Alabama?
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 School Counselors in Alabama?
Alabama lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for School Counselors.
What education do you need to become a School Counselor in Alabama?
The board typically expects Degree required for School Counselor licensure in Alabama.
What is the typical School Counselor salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Alabama is 60,530. Salaries range from $38,110 (10th percentile) to $87,340 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Alabama earn 7% below the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 60,530.
How many School Counselors work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 4,510 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Alabama 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 School Counselors in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama State Department of Education. Review agency details at https://www.alsde.edu/.