School Counselor / Georgia
2026 data Georgia board official source

Georgia School Counselor License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Provides academic and social-emotional counseling to students.

What the Georgia data shows for School Counselors

To practice as a school counselor in Georgia, the state licensing board requires board-approved training, a passing score on the State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent) examination, and 1 year 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 Georgia's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Masters Degree in School Counseling".

Upfront cost is $157, with renewal running $111 on a 5-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 150 hours of continuing education per 5-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: State-specific reciprocity varies. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Georgia

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in School Counseling
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$157
Renewal Fee
$111
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
150 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
1 year

License Reciprocity

State-specific reciprocity varies

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Georgia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Counselor in Georgia?
Georgia requires, passing an exam (State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent)), and an initial fee of $157. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a School Counselor in Georgia?
To become a licensed school counselor in Georgia, you must meet the state's requirements and 1 year of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Georgia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Georgia from another state?
Georgia has reciprocity provisions: State-specific reciprocity varies. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Georgia licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Georgia require a background check for School Counselor licensing?
Yes, Georgia requires a criminal background check as part of the school counselor licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for School Counselor in Georgia?
Licensed school counselors in Georgia must complete 150 hours of continuing education every 5 years. The renewal fee is $111.

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

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