School Counselor / New York
2026 data New York board official source

New York School Counselor License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Provides academic and social-emotional counseling to students.

What the New York data shows for School Counselors

New York's path to school counselor licensure runs through board-approved instruction, 1 year of supervised work experience, and a passing score on State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. New York folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in School Counseling".

Upfront cost is $191, with renewal running $132 on a 5-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 150-hour continuing-education requirement per 5-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in School Counseling
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$191
Renewal Fee
$132
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 New York licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for School Counselor in New York? ▼
In New York, the license path calls for, a passing score on State School Counselor Exam (Praxis or equivalent), and a $191 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a School Counselor in New York? ▼
New York licenses school counselors who complete its requirements (1 year of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the New York licensing board.
Can I transfer my School Counselor license to New York 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 New York licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does New York require a background check for School Counselor licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for school counselor licensing in New York. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for School Counselor in New York? ▼
To stay licensed as a school counselor in New York, plan on 150 hours of continuing education per 5-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $132.

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.