Licensed Professional Counselor / California
2026 data California board official source

California Licensed Professional Counselor License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

PlainCredential home → About this data

Provides mental health counseling and therapy services.

What the California data shows for Licensed Professional Counselors

California's path to licensed professional counselor licensure runs through 3,486 hours of approved instruction, 2 years of supervised work experience, and a passing score on NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. California folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in Counseling".

The initial price tag is $247, and renewal costs $198 every 2 years. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 30 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Counseling Compact: 40+ states.

Licensing Requirements in California

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Counseling
3,486 hours
Exam Requirement
NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE
Required
Initial License Fee
$247
Renewal Fee
$198
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Licensed Professional Counselor All California licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with California licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Professional Counselor in California? ▼
In California, the license path calls for 3486 education/training hours, a passing score on NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE, and a $247 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor in California? ▼
California licenses licensed professional counselors who complete its requirements (3486 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the California licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to California from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for licensed professional counselors: Counseling Compact: 40+ states. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the California licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does California require a background check for Licensed Professional Counselor licensing? ▼
Yes, California requires a criminal background check as part of the licensed professional counselor licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor in California? ▼
California ties continued licensed professional counselor licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $198 renewal fee.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.