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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Maryland
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
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 Maryland eligibility requirements for School Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Maryland State Department of Education and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,497Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $61,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Delaware | $72,450 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $55,420 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $67,350 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Delaware | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Maryland State Department of Education
200 West Baltimore St, Baltimore, MD, 21201
Phone: 4107670609
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $81,530 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $81,630 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,800 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $64,980 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Maryland?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a School Counselor license in Maryland?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.