Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Real Estate Appraiser Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$67,350 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 67,350, School Counselors in Virginia earn 3% above the national median of $65,140. Virginia ranks #14 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$67,350Hourly estimate
$32.383% above national median
Difference: +$2,210
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#14 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $67,350 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $74,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $55,420 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $64,390 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $59,090 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $57,100 | No educational requirements | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Real Estate Appraiser Board
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043678552
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $62,270 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $74,320 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $97,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $85,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Virginia is 67,350. Salaries range from $43,120 (10th percentile) to $99,910 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Virginia earn 3% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 67,350.
How many School Counselors work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 8,810 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation / Real Estate Appraiser Board. Review agency details at https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/Appraisers/.