LicenseCompass

Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12) License in Florida

Quick Answer

The COS data returned a school counseling credential, not a substance abuse counselor credential. Contact the Florida Certification Board or FL Department of Health for substance abuse counselor requirements.

Exam
IC&RC or state-specific exam
Timeline
1-4 years depending on credential level

Requirements

Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12) license in Florida

gold
Education
No educational requirements
Exam
No exam required
Continuing Education
No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Fees are reduced and expedited processing is available for military and spouses, with a temporary license available in the interim

Licensing Agency

FL Department of Education~Bureau of Teacher Certification

Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12) Salary in Florida

Entry Level

$38,790

Median

$56,830

Experienced

$83,330

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12) in Florida.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    No educational requirements

  2. 2

    Pass the Required Exam

    No exam required — IC&RC or state-specific exam

  3. 3

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  4. 4

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 1-4 years depending on credential level.

Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12) Licensing in Florida: What to Know

MISMATCH: COS returned 'Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12)' -- a school counseling certification through the FL Department of Education, completely unrelated to substance abuse counseling. Florida licenses substance abuse counselors as Certified Master's Level Addictions Professionals (CMAP) or similar. Contact the FL Department of Health or certification boards.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12) license in Florida?
The process typically takes 1-4 years depending on credential level, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12) license in Florida?
You need to pass the IC&RC or state-specific exam. No exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Guidance and Counseling (grades PK-12) requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.