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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in Washington
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $99,110 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $94,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $97,800 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor in Washington?
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 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. 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.