Licensing Requirements

Applicants must list all states where they do or did hold credentials, including where the applicant applied but didn't receive a credential. The jurisdiction where the applicant is or was credentialed must complete and submit a verification form. The jurisdiction must send the completed form directly to the department.

Each applicant must answer all personal data questions. If there is a positive answer to any of the questions, the applicant must send an explanation and official documentation (if applicable). With regard to the professional liability claims history question, the applicant must send an explanation of the nature of the case, data and summary of care given, copies of the original complaint, and the settlement or final disposition. If a case is pending, applicant must indicate status.

• Applicants must successfully pass an examination given by either the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) or the American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG).
• Applicants who have met the requirements for licensure except for passing the examination may apply for a provisional license to engage in supervised practice as a genetic counselor.

Genetic counselors are required to complete 75 hours of continuing education, or 7.5 continuing education units (CEUs), every three years, due at the time of license renewal.

To order laboratory tests or recommend other evaluations regarding hereditary or carrier conditions, a genetic counselor must have a collaborative agreement with a physician (medical doctor or doctor of osteopathic medicine). Such agreements must be signed by both practitioners and be re-evaluated every two years.