Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$65,660 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 Texas
With a median salary of 65,660, School Counselors in Texas earn 1% above the national median of $65,140. Texas ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$65,660Hourly estimate
$31.571% above national median
Difference: +$520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $65,660 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $51,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $60,110 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $67,070 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $76,490 | Degree required | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
1801 Congress Ave, Ste 7.300, Austin, TX, 78701
Phone: 5123057700
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $61,380 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $64,910 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $85,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $103,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for School Counselors.
What education do you need to become a School Counselor in Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for School Counselor licensure in Texas.
What is the typical School Counselor salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Texas is 65,660. Salaries range from $40,530 (10th percentile) to $86,200 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Texas compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Texas earn 1% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 65,660.
How many School Counselors work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 32,350 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Texas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for School Counselors in Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. Review agency details at http://www.bhec.texas.gov/.