Arizona School Counselor Certification Reciprocity

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: September 3rd, 2024

Certification Reciprocity Process for School Counselors

The Arizona Department of Education (ADEA) allows applicants to reciprocate with all states and issue a comparable teaching, administrative, or professional non-teaching certificate. Applicants holding a valid, comparable certificate in another state and in good standing in that state may also qualify to add additional approved areas or endorsements to existing teaching certificates.

Individuals who qualify under Certification Reciprocity Rules are exempt from Arizona educator exam requirements. The fee for this is $60 per certificate, endorsement, or approved area, and per Board-rule certification fees are non-refundable.

To apply under Certification Reciprocity, applicants must submit a valid IVP fingerprint card, an out-of-state certificate/license, and official transcripts. Exams or work experience are not required under reciprocity rules.

Applicants from another state must have the U.S. Constitution and Arizona State Constitution. Allowable deficiencies for 1 or 3 years, depending on the certification area, may result in a certificate being issued without meeting these requirements. If not met within the allowable time, the certificate will be placed on non-disciplinary suspension.

Interstate Reciprocity Agreement

Arizona participates in interstate reciprocity agreements with other states, making it easier for certified school counselors from those states to become certified in Arizona. Reciprocity agreements recognize the qualifications and experiences of out-of-state educators, streamlining the certification process.

Certification Name and Requirements

For individuals applying through reciprocity, they should specify which state they are transferring from. The requirements may vary depending on the originating state, but generally, candidates should possess a valid out-of-state teaching certificate and meet Arizona’s background check requirements.

Fees for Reciprocity Certification

Fees associated with certification through reciprocity can vary depending on the specific circumstances and state of origin. For detailed information on reciprocity fees, consult the Arizona Department of Education’s Reciprocity page.