Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MD Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Maryland, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Maryland
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maryland State Department of Education
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$74,970 median (15% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 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 Maryland
With a median salary of 74,970, School Counselors in Maryland earn 15% above the national median of $65,140. Maryland ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$74,970Hourly estimate
$36.0415% above national median
Difference: +$9,830
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#7 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $74,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $61,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $72,450 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $55,420 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $67,350 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Maryland State Department of Education
200 West Baltimore St, Baltimore, MD, 21201
Phone: 4107670609
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $74,720 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $81,690 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $99,210 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $101,700 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Maryland?
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 is the typical School Counselor salary in Maryland?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Maryland is 74,970. Salaries range from $45,650 (10th percentile) to $119,920 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Maryland earn 15% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 74,970.
How many School Counselors work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 6,210 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Maryland 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 Maryland?
The licensing agency is Maryland State Department of Education. Review agency details at http://www.msde.state.md.us/.