School Counselor / Maryland
2026 data Maryland board official source

Maryland School Counselor 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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Provides academic and social-emotional counseling to students.

What the Maryland data shows for School Counselors

Maryland sets the entry bar for school counselors at board-approved training and a passing score on State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent), with 1 year 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 Maryland's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in School Counseling".

Budget $210 to get started, plus $144 at each renewal on a 5-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 150 hours of continuing education are due every 5-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: State-specific reciprocity varies.

Licensing Requirements in Maryland

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in School Counseling
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$210
Renewal Fee
$144
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
150 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
1 year

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Compare all states for School Counselor All Maryland licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Maryland licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Counselor in Maryland? ▼
In Maryland, the license path calls for, a passing score on State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent), and a $210 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a School Counselor in Maryland? ▼
Certification as a school counselor in Maryland means clearing the state's checklist plus 1 year of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Maryland licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to Maryland from another state? ▼
School Counselor licenses generally reciprocate as follows: State-specific reciprocity varies. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Maryland licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Maryland require a background check for School Counselor licensing? ▼
Yes, Maryland 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 Maryland? ▼
Maryland ties continued school counselor licensure to 150 continuing-education hours, due every 5 years, alongside a $144 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.