Application Fee
See agencySchool Counselor Licensing in Georgia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Georgia, 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 Georgia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$63,990 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 Georgia
With a median salary of 63,990, School Counselors in Georgia earn 2% below the national median of $65,140. Georgia ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$63,990Hourly estimate
$30.76Difference: -$1,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $63,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $59,090 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $57,100 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $57,400 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $54,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $60,530 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Florida | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists
237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, GA, 31217-3858
Phone: 4782072440
Related Careers in Georgia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $63,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $73,500 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $100,870 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $101,920 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Georgia?
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 Georgia?
Georgia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for School Counselors.
What education do you need to become a School Counselor in Georgia?
The board typically expects Degree required for School Counselor licensure in Georgia.
What is the typical School Counselor salary in Georgia?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Georgia is 63,990. Salaries range from $42,710 (10th percentile) to $104,720 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Georgia compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Georgia earn 2% below the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 63,990.
How many School Counselors work in Georgia?
Georgia employs approximately 10,890 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Georgia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for School Counselors in Georgia?
The licensing agency is Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. Review agency details at https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing.