Maine School Counselor Certification Renewal

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: December 20th, 2024

Maine School Counselor Certification Renewal

The Maine School Counselor Certification is valid for five (5) years from the date of issue. After this period, individuals must renew their certification to continue practicing as school counselors in Maine (see Maine certification renewals overview). To renew the Maine School Counselor Certification, individuals must follow these key points and processes (see Maine admin code regulating these processes):

  • Renewal Period: The renewal process must be completed before the expiration date of the current certification, which is five (5) years from the date of issue.
  • Renewal Application: Renewal applications are completed online (online portal). Applicants must submit a completed profile and renewal application along with the renewal application fee of $100 (see “How to submit a renewal application”).
  • Renewal Credits: Applicants must complete renewal credits equivalent to six (6) semester hours or ninety (90) contact hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs). All courses and continuing education activities must be related to the education industry.
  • Renewal Documentation: Applicants must provide documentation of the completion of the required renewal credits. This documentation serves as evidence that the applicant has engaged in professional development activities to enhance their skills and knowledge as a school counselor.
  • Renewal Submission: If employed by a School Administrative Unit (SAU), the renewal process must be processed through the SAU. If not employed by an SAU, applicants must provide the necessary documentation to support their renewal application.
  • Renewal Timeline: The required six (6) semester hours or ninety (90) hours of in-service training must have been earned within five (5) years before the renewal application. These credits cannot have been used previously to renew the same certification.
  • Appeal Process: If an applicant does not receive positive verification from the SAU, they may appeal to the Commissioner according to Maine Department of Education Regulation 119.

School counselors need to keep track of their renewal requirements and deadlines to ensure they maintain their certification and continue practicing in the state of Maine. If assistance is needed during the renewal process, applicants can contact the Department of Education helpline at (207) 624-6896 or the certification department at (207) 624-6600 during normal business hours.