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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
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 Texas eligibility requirements for School Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 4. Submit the application to Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $51,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $60,110 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $67,070 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $76,490 | Degree required | No exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oklahoma | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arkansas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Louisiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Mexico | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $76,290 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $83,760 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $99,480 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $75,650 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Texas?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a School Counselor license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.