Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Education • Office of Educator Quality and Certification
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$71,590 median (10% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#10 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 Rhode Island
With a median salary of 71,590, School Counselors in Rhode Island earn 10% above the national median of $65,140. Rhode Island ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$71,590Hourly estimate
$34.4210% above national median
Difference: +$6,450
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#10 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $71,590 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $78,840 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $70,400 | Degree required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 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
RI Department of Education • Office of Educator Quality and Certification
255 Westminster St, Providence, RI, 02903-3400
Phone: 4012224600
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $86,900 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $72,820 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $106,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $80,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Rhode Island is 71,590. Salaries range from $48,010 (10th percentile) to $102,370 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Rhode Island earn 10% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 71,590.
How many School Counselors work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,400 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Education / Office of Educator Quality and Certification. Review agency details at https://ride.ri.gov/teachers-administrators/educator-certification-0.