Licensed Professional Counselor / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia 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 Virginia data shows for Licensed Professional Counselors

Virginia's path to licensed professional counselor licensure runs through 2,905 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. Virginia folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in Counseling".

The initial price tag is $137, and renewal costs $117 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Counseling
2,905 hours
Exam Requirement
NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE
Required
Initial License Fee
$137
Renewal Fee
$117
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 Virginia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia? ▼
In Virginia, the license path calls for 2905 education/training hours, a passing score on NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE, and a $137 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia? ▼
Virginia licenses licensed professional counselors who complete its requirements (2905 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Virginia licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Virginia from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for licensed professional counselors nationally works like this: Counseling Compact: 40+ states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Virginia. Verify the specifics with the Virginia licensing board.
Does Virginia require a background check for Licensed Professional Counselor licensing? ▼
Yes, Virginia 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 Virginia? ▼
Virginia ties continued licensed professional counselor licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $117 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.