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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 California eligibility requirements for School Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to There is some indication that this license exists in California, but it has not yet been confirmed by state experts and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $94,320 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $74,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $64,960 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $57,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Agency website unverified
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
This agency is in our manual verification queue. We only publish direct official board URLs after verification.
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $105,980 | Varies by state board | 2 years |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $125,670 | Varies by state board | 2 years |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $125,310 | Varies by state board | 2 years |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $85,560 | Varies by state board | 2 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in California?
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 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. 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. The official board website is currently under manual verification.
How often do you renew a School Counselor license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.