Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
There is some indication that this license exists in California, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$94,320 median (45% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 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 California
With a median salary of 94,320, School Counselors in California earn 45% above the national median of $65,140. California ranks #1 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
$94,320Hourly estimate
$45.3545% above national median
Difference: +$29,180
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#1 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 regionLicense 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 | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 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
There is some indication that this license exists in California, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $98,190 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $86,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor 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 exams are required for School Counselors in California?
California lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for School Counselors.
What education do you need to become a School Counselor in California?
The board typically expects Degree required for School Counselor licensure in California.
What is the typical School Counselor salary in California?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in California is 94,320. Salaries range from $50,850 (10th percentile) to $149,290 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in California compare to the national average?
School Counselors in California earn 45% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 94,320.
How many School Counselors work in California?
California employs approximately 44,160 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to California 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 California?
The licensing agency is There is some indication that this license exists in California, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts.