LicenseCompass

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor License in Nevada

Quick Answer

To become a substance abuse counselor in Nevada, choose from CADC-Intern ($210), CADC ($470, bachelor's + 4,000 hours), or LADC ($490, master's required). Must be 21+, pass written and oral exams, and have no substance abuse or criminal issues in the prior 2 years.

Exam
Written and oral examinations (70% passing score each)
Total Cost
$470 (est.)
Timeline
4-6 years (bachelor's degree + 4,000 hours supervised experience for CADC; master's for LADC)
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Every 2 years

Requirements

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor license in Nevada

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
State exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Estimated Costs Est.

Renewal Fee
$250
Total Estimated Cost
$470

Licensing Agency

Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor Salary in Nevada

Entry Level

$43,490

Median

$59,470

Experienced

$92,440

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

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor in Nevada.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    State exam required — Written and oral examinations (70% passing score each)

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 4-6 years (bachelor's degree + 4,000 hours supervised experience for CADC; master's for LADC).

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor Licensing in Nevada: What to Know

Multiple credential levels: CADC-Intern (bachelor's or 60 credits), CADC (bachelor's in approved social science + 4,000 hours supervised + written/oral exams at 70%), LADC (master's + all CADC requirements). Must be 21+, no substance abuse in prior 2 years, no parole/probation in prior 2 years, must follow ethical standards, 2 sets of fingerprints. Fees: CADC-Intern $210; CADC $470 (incl. $60 processing + $280 testing); LADC $490 (incl. $60 processing + $300 testing); renewal $250 every 2 years; intern renewal $75/year.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor license cost in Nevada?
The estimated total cost is $470, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor license in Nevada?
The process typically takes 4-6 years (bachelor's degree + 4,000 hours supervised experience for CADC; master's for LADC), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor license in Nevada?
You need to pass the Written and oral examinations (70% passing score each). State exam required

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