Marriage and Family Therapist / New Jersey
2026 data New Jersey board official source

New Jersey Marriage and Family Therapist 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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Specializes in treating relationship and family issues.

What the New Jersey data shows for Marriage and Family Therapists

New Jersey sets the entry bar for marriage and family therapists at 3,149 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 New Jersey's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

The initial price tag is $221, and renewal costs $189 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 36-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in New Jersey

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,149 hours
Exam Requirement
MFT National Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$221
Renewal Fee
$189
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
36 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Marriage and Family Therapist All New Jersey licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New Jersey licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey? ▼
In New Jersey, the license path calls for 3149 education/training hours, a passing score on MFT National Examination, and a $221 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey? ▼
New Jersey licenses marriage and family therapists who complete its requirements (3149 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the New Jersey licensing board.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to New Jersey from another state? ▼
For marriage and family therapists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the New Jersey licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does New Jersey require a background check for Marriage and Family Therapist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the marriage and family therapist licensing process in New Jersey. 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 New Jersey? ▼
New Jersey ties continued marriage and family therapist licensure to 36 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $189 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.