Colorado requires a state-level substance abuse counselor license. The licensing authority is State Board of Behavioral Health / Substance Abuse Counselor Board. The median salary is $58,006 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
Colorado requires a substance abuse counselor to hold a state license. Counsel individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction, developing treatment plans and providing support. Licensing is administered by the State Board of Behavioral Health / Substance Abuse Counselor Board.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | Varies: Certificate program to master's degree + supervised clinical hours (2,000-6,000 hours) |
| Experience Details | Varies: Certificate program to master's degree + supervised clinical hours (2,000-6,000 hours) |
Colorado requires passing the Colorado IC&RC or NAADAC Certification Exam + State Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $200.
| Exam Name | Colorado IC&RC or NAADAC Certification Exam + State Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | IC&RC or NAADAC Certification Exam + State Exam |
| Application Fee | $200 |
Getting licensed as a substance abuse counselor in Colorado takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $200 and renewal fees of $200 every 2 years. Continuing education of 40 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $200 |
| License Renewal | $200 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 40 hours |
Substance Abuse Counselors in Colorado earn a median salary of $58,006, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in Colorado |
| National average | $53,710 |
Yes — Colorado requires a state-level substance abuse counselor license. Counsel individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction, developing treatment plans and providing support.
The required exam is the Colorado IC&RC or NAADAC Certification Exam + State Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $200.
The median annual salary for substance abuse counselors in Colorado is $58,006. The national median is $53,710.
Colorado requires 40 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.