VirginiaGenetic Counselor License Requirements

Genetic counselors must complete a master's degree in genetic counseling from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). Programs typically span 2 years and include didactic coursework in human genetics, genomics, counseling theory, and supervised clinical rotations across specialties including prenatal, cancer, pediatric, and adult genetics.

The ABGC Certification Examination is a computer-based test administered at Prometric testing centers. It covers case management, psychosocial assessment, genetic risk assessment, genetic testing, and professional ethics. Most states require current ABGC certification as a prerequisite for state licensure. Recertification occurs every 5 years through continuing education or re-examination.

Clinical training is integrated into the ACGC-accredited master's program and includes supervised clinical rotations across diverse genetic counseling specialties. Students must complete a minimum number of supervised clinical cases covering prenatal, cancer, pediatric, and adult genetics. Supervision must be provided by an ABGC-certified genetic counselor or board-certified medical geneticist.

Additional Notes

Virginia licenses genetic counselors through the Board of Medicine.

Most states now require genetic counselors to hold a state-issued license in addition to ABGC certification. Licensure has expanded rapidly, with approximately 35+ states now requiring genetic counselor licensure. A few states do not yet have specific genetic counselor licensing laws, though ABGC certification is still required by employers and insurance payers.

Patient Counseling Scope

Genetic risk assessment and counseling for individuals and families regarding inherited conditions

Genetic counselors provide genetic risk assessment, genetic testing interpretation, and patient counseling for inherited conditions. Their scope includes prenatal genetics, cancer genetics, pediatric genetics, and pharmacogenomics. Genetic counselors do not have prescriptive authority. Test ordering authority varies by state — some states allow delegated ordering, while others require physician authorization.

CE Details

50 contact hours biennially; at least 30 must be Category 1 (ABGC, ABMG, or NSGC approved); CE not required for initial renewal cycle

Regulatory Board

Genetic counselor licenses must be renewed on schedule with the state board. Continuing education requirements vary by state, typically ranging from 25-50 hours per renewal period. Topics must include genetics, genomics, counseling skills, and professional ethics. ABGC recertification (every 5 years) also requires continuing education.

Reciprocity Requirements

• •Active ABGC or ABMGG certification in good standing
• •Submit application to Virginia Board of Medicine / Department of Health Professions
• •Provide verification of current out-of-state license if applicable
• •Pass criminal background check
• •Pay applicable fees

Most states offer licensure by endorsement for genetic counselors holding a license in another state. ABGC certification is recognized nationally and typically facilitates the endorsement process. Requirements commonly include verification of active ABGC certification, good standing in all current jurisdictions, and completing state-specific application requirements.