2026 data Montana board official source

Montana 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 Montana data shows for Marriage and Family Therapists

To practice as a marriage and family therapist in Montana, the state licensing board requires 3,257 documented education or training hours, a passing score on MFT National Examination, and 2 years of supervised work experience. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Montana's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

Upfront cost is $245, with renewal running $207 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 36 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, marriage and family therapists should know: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Montana

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,257 hours
Exam Requirement
MFT National Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$245
Renewal Fee
$207
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 Montana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Marriage and Family Therapist in Montana?
Montana requires 3257 education/training hours, passing an exam (MFT National Examination), and an initial fee of $245. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Montana?
Montana licenses marriage and family therapists who complete its requirements (3257 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Montana licensing board.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to Montana 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 Montana. Verify the specifics with the Montana licensing board.
Does Montana require a background check for Marriage and Family Therapist licensing?
Background screening is part of the marriage and family therapist licensing process in Montana. 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 Montana?
Licensed marriage and family therapists in Montana must complete 36 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $207.

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