Licensed Professional Counselor / Michigan
2026 data Michigan board official source

Michigan Licensed Professional Counselor License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Provides mental health counseling and therapy services.

What the Michigan data shows for Licensed Professional Counselors

Michigan's path to licensed professional counselor licensure runs through 2,973 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. Michigan folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in Counseling".

The initial price tag is $150, and renewal costs $126 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

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

Licensing Requirements in Michigan

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Counseling
2,973 hours
Exam Requirement
NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE
Required
Initial License Fee
$150
Renewal Fee
$126
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan? ▼
In Michigan, the license path calls for 2973 education/training hours, a passing score on NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE, and a $150 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan? ▼
Michigan licenses licensed professional counselors who complete its requirements (2973 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Michigan licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Michigan from another state? ▼
Licensed Professional Counselor licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Counseling Compact: 40+ states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Michigan licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Michigan require a background check for Licensed Professional Counselor licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the licensed professional counselor licensing process in Michigan. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan? ▼
To stay licensed as a licensed professional counselor in Michigan, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $126.

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.