2026 data Kentucky board official source

Kentucky Marriage and Family Therapist License Requirements

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

Specializes in treating relationship and family issues.

What the Kentucky data shows for Marriage and Family Therapists

Kentucky's path to marriage and family therapist licensure runs through 2,770 hours of approved instruction, 2 years of supervised work experience, and a passing score on MFT National Examination, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Kentucky folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

The initial price tag is $136, and renewal costs $122 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 36 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: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Kentucky

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
2,770 hours
Exam Requirement
MFT National Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$136
Renewal Fee
$122
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 Kentucky licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Marriage and Family Therapist in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, the license path calls for 2770 education/training hours, a passing score on MFT National Examination, and a $136 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Kentucky?
Certification as a marriage and family therapist in Kentucky means clearing the state's checklist: 2770 hours of education plus 2 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Kentucky licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to Kentucky from another state?
Reciprocity for marriage and family therapists nationally works like this: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Kentucky. Verify the specifics with the Kentucky licensing board.
Does Kentucky require a background check for Marriage and Family Therapist licensing?
Background screening is part of the marriage and family therapist licensing process in Kentucky. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist in Kentucky?
Licensed marriage and family therapists in Kentucky must complete 36 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $122.

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