✓ License Required

How to Get a Substance Abuse Counselor License in New Jersey

Substance Abuse Counselor license requirements in New Jersey — experience, exams, fees, reciprocity, and salary data from State Board of Behavioral Health / Substance Abuse Counselor Board.

Experience
— months
Exam Fee
$200
Passing Score
70%
Avg Salary
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Requirements

01
Substance Abuse Counselor — Counsel individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction, developing treatment plans and providing support.
Minimum Age18 years old
EducationVaries: Certificate program to master's degree + supervised clinical hours (2,000-6,000 hours)
Experience DetailsVaries: Certificate program to master's degree + supervised clinical hours (2,000-6,000 hours)

Exam Details

02
Exam NameNew Jersey IC&RC or NAADAC Certification Exam + State Exam
Passing Score70%
Code EditionIC&RC or NAADAC Certification Exam + State Exam
Application Fee$200

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How to Apply

03
1
Register with the state
Register with State Board of Behavioral Health / Substance Abuse Counselor Board before beginning work.
2
Accumulate required experience
Complete — months of supervised work experience.
3
Apply for the exam
Submit your application and $200 fee through the state portal.
4
Pass the exam
questions, 70% to pass.
5
Receive your license
After passing, your license will be issued. Renew every 2 years.

Fees & Renewal

04
FeeAmount
Exam Application$200
License Renewal$200 every 2 years
Continuing Education40 hours

Salary Data

06

Substance Abuse Counselors in New Jersey earn less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

25th Percentile
Median
$63,377
75th Percentile
Mean (average)— / year
Entry level (10th pct)
Top earners (90th pct)
Total employed— in New Jersey
National average$53,710

Related

Data last verified April 2026. Requirements may change — always verify with the State Board of Behavioral Health / Substance Abuse Counselor Board.