2026 data Arizona board official source

Arizona Marriage and Family Therapist License Requirements

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

Specializes in treating relationship and family issues.

What the Arizona data shows for Marriage and Family Therapists

Arizona sets the entry bar for marriage and family therapists at 3,332 training hours and a passing score on MFT National Examination, 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 Arizona's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

The initial price tag is $262, and renewal costs $221 every 2 years. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 36 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Arizona

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,332 hours
Exam Requirement
MFT National Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$262
Renewal Fee
$221
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
36 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 Arizona licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Marriage and Family Therapist in Arizona?
Arizona requires 3332 education/training hours, passing an exam (MFT National Examination), and an initial fee of $262. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Arizona?
Certification as a marriage and family therapist in Arizona means clearing the state's checklist: 3332 hours of education plus 2 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Arizona licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to Arizona from another state?
Marriage and Family Therapist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Arizona licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Arizona require a background check for Marriage and Family Therapist licensing?
Arizona does require a background check before issuing a marriage and family therapist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist in Arizona?
Arizona ties continued marriage and family therapist licensure to 36 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $221 renewal fee.

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