2026 data Vermont board official source

Vermont Licensed Professional Counselor License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Provides mental health counseling and therapy services.

What the Vermont data shows for Licensed Professional Counselors

Vermont sets the entry bar for licensed professional counselors at 2,541 training hours and a passing score on NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE, with 2 years of supervised work experience expected. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Vermont's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in Counseling".

Upfront cost is $68, with renewal running $66 on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For licensed professional counselors, the reciprocity picture is: Counseling Compact: 40+ states.

Licensing Requirements in Vermont

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Counseling
2,541 hours
Exam Requirement
NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE
Required
Initial License Fee
$68
Renewal Fee
$66
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Vermont licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Professional Counselor in Vermont?
Vermont requires 2541 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE), and an initial fee of $68. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Vermont?
Certification as a licensed professional counselor in Vermont means clearing the state's checklist: 2541 hours of education plus 2 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Vermont licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Vermont 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 Vermont. Verify the specifics with the Vermont licensing board.
Does Vermont require a background check for Licensed Professional Counselor licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for licensed professional counselor licensing in Vermont. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor in Vermont?
Licensed licensed professional counselors in Vermont must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $66.

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