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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Alabama
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 Alabama eligibility requirements for School Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Alabama State Department of Education and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,201Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $59,090 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $63,990 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Florida | $54,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $59,630 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Mississippi | 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
Alabama State Department of Education
P.O. Box 302101, Montgomery, AL, 36104
Phone: 3346944900
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $64,060 | Specific course required | 16 years |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $77,940 | Specific course required | 16 years |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $81,040 | Specific course required | 16 years |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $65,670 | Specific course required | 16 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Alabama?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a School Counselor license in Alabama?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.