If you’re pursuing cross-licensure for the first time, or you want to continue practicing in multiple states, there are a few important steps to take.
Research state board requirements.
Visit your licensing board’s website to verify the requirements for a reciprocity or endorsement application. Some boards allow online applications for faster processing.
Understand required documentation.
The documentation you need to provide for cross-state licensure typically depends on the type of license you have and the state board you’re applying to. “Requirements often include proof of education, supervised experience, exam scores, and licensure in good standing,” says Tong.
Confirm education and training.
As with your primary practice state, your secondary license will typically require graduation from an accredited master's or doctoral program in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field. Some states may require specific coursework or training hours in certain areas.
Many states also require therapists to accrue a certain number of supervised clinical hours post-graduation. This typically involves working under the supervision of a licensed therapist or counselor.
Pass licensure examinations.
You’ll likely be able to carry over the licensure examination you already completed to the new state you wish to practice in, thanks to cross-state agreements. However, some stays may require additional exams. These exams can include a national exam, such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), as well as state-specific exams.
Once licensed in multiple states, you must fulfill each state's requirements for license renewal, which often includes obtaining continuing education credits and adhering to ethical standards.
Apply for licensure.
After meeting the education, experience, and examination requirements, you can apply for licensure in each state. This usually involves submitting an application, transcripts, exam scores, proof of supervised experience, and any other required documentation
Stay informed.
Keep in mind guidelines for both reciprocity and endorsement can change rapidly. For example, during the pandemic, Tong says many state boards temporarily changed their guidelines to allow therapists to practice outside their state more easily. “Licensing laws and compacts will also likely evolve with the expansion of telehealth,” she says.
Professional associations, such as the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), American Counseling Association (ACA), and American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), often publish updates on interstate compacts and licensure portability efforts.
