Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$83,930 median (29% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for School Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $83,930, School Counselors in Washington earn 29% above the national median of $65,140. Washington ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$83,930Hourly estimate
$40.3529% above national median
Difference: +$18,790
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#2 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oregon | 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
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $77,310 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $81,050 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,690 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $66,150 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for School Counselors.
What education do you need to become a School Counselor in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for School Counselor licensure in Washington.
What is the typical School Counselor salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in Washington is $83,930. Salaries range from $55,830 (10th percentile) to $127,830 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in Washington compare to the national average?
School Counselors in Washington earn 29% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of $83,930.
How many School Counselors work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 5,910 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a School Counselor license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.