OpenExamsFREE PRACTICE — ANY EXAM

Iowa Marriage & Family Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

US-IA · License preparation

300 free questions · Answer explanations · No signup required

Choose what to practice

Start with an exam below. Your examination requirements depend on your application pathway. View licensing requirements

Loading selected examination banks…

Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Temporary license

Temporary marital and family therapy authorization for a veteran or active-duty military spouse completing education or training under Iowa Code section 272C.12A(2).

Licensing authority: Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals · Application information

Extension of a military temporary training license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing License
Hold a temporary license issued for the required military-spouse or veteran education or training.
Good Cause
The Board may extend the temporary license case by case for good cause.
Pending Application
The full-license application remains pending until training is successfully completed or the temporary license expires.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Veteran or military spouse temporary licensure to complete training
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Additional Training
Complete the specific education or training identified by the Board under section 272C.12A(2).
Extension
The Board may extend the temporary license case by case for good cause; the full-license application remains pending until training is complete or the temporary license expires.
Military Status
Be a veteran or active-duty military spouse licensed in another state, whose scope of practice is not substantially similar to Iowa and who must complete the Board-identified additional education or training.
Previous AMFTRBPass
481—7.3(5)(a) requires the licensure examination to have been passed before issuing the temporary training license. For this profession, 481—880.3(1)(a)(1) identifies the AMFTRB exam. That currently offered examination remains a leaf even though taken earlier.
Temporary Conditions
The Board specifies the temporary period and conditions for protecting the public. Rule 481—7.3(5)(b) also permits denial for deficiencies that would adversely affect public health, welfare or safety; section 272C.12A(2)(a) directs issuance for completing the prescribed training.

Licensed marital and family therapist

Permanent licensure for independent marital and family therapy practice. Iowa Code section 154D.4 separately exempts specified student, supervised clinical-experience and agency services; those exemptions are not licenses and do not establish that the profession generally needs no license.

Licensing authority: Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals · Application information

Licensure by endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the completed application and fee. Internet-based verification may substitute for direct verification when it shows name, initial licensure date, current status and disciplinary action.
Implementation Exam Demand
The general DIAL application checklist states the following AMFTRB proof requirement. The specific endorsement and verification provisions determine the route’s legal requirements; applicants should ask the Board how it applies the general checklist to this route.
Implementation Exam Demand Source
{"locator":"Attach Required Documents — Examination Requirement","name":"DIAL — Apply for a Marital & Family Therapy License","quote":"Examination Requirement - Proof of passing the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Board (AMFTRB) Examination in Marital and Family Therapy.","url":"https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/medical/mental-health/mental-behavioral-health/how-do-i-marriage-family-therapy"}
Other License
Have a marital and family therapist license in another jurisdiction; provide verification from the most recently licensing jurisdiction and disclose public or pending complaints in any jurisdiction.
Similar Requirements
Show that the licensing jurisdiction has requirements similar to Iowa under Iowa Code section 154D.8(3).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by examination
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Submit the completed online application and nonrefundable licensure fee; the application remains active for two years and must be resubmitted with materials and fee if incomplete.
Early Examination
Before graduation, submit the application and fee and a program-director letter sent directly on school letterhead confirming good standing, graduation within three months of the letter, and expected graduation date.
Education
Provide official transcripts directly from the school showing a COAMFTE-accredited or CCE-evaluated content-equivalent graduate degree. The rule specifies a 60-semester-hour (80-quarter-hour or equivalent) master’s or doctoral degree; persons who entered study before July 1, 2010 may use the stated 45-semester-hour master’s degree provision.
External Clinical Experience
For clinical experience completed outside Iowa without obtaining a license there, contact the Board to determine what experience qualifies.
Implementation Training Alternative
The general application page lists either proof of AAMFT clinical membership or a completed supervised clinical experience report; the controlling statute and rule require the Board-approved clinical experience.
Implementation Training Alternative Source
{"locator":"Attach Required Documents — Training/Supervision Requirement","name":"DIAL — Apply for a Marital & Family Therapy License","quote":"Training/ Supervision Requirement - One of the following: Proof of clinical membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, OR Completed Supervised Clinical Experience: Supervision report form.","url":"https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/medical/mental-health/mental-behavioral-health/how-do-i-marriage-family-therapy"}
Military Credit
Military education, training and service may receive Board-approved credit toward education or experience, but not toward the examination requirement, under 481—7.2.
Score
Pass the AMFTRB Examination in Marital and Family Therapy at the national testing authority’s passing point in effect when the examination was administered.
Source Applicability
Chapter 880 is applied as effective August 13, 2025. The September 2, 2026 publication’s ARC 0556D changes take effect October 7, 2026 and do not govern this evaluation.
Supervised Clinical Experience
Complete at least two years and 3,000 practice hours after graduate coursework except the thesis, including 1,500 direct-client hours and 110 equitably distributed direct-supervision hours; at most 50 supervision hours may be group supervision. Continue direct supervision after the minimum hours until the experience is complete.
Supervision Documentation
Submit the Board’s supervision plan before supervision and before changing supervisors; ensure reports are submitted at completion or a supervisor’s departure. The Board may require additional supervision or training if the report finds inadequate preparation or violations.
Supervision Grandfather
New or additional requirements of 481—880.7 do not apply to supervision that started before July 20, 2022.
Supervisor
Use an Iowa independently licensed social worker, mental health counselor or MFT with at least three years of independent practice and the required supervision course; otherwise obtain Board approval before supervision begins. No more than four supervisors at once; notify supervisors of each other.
Licensure by examination — foreign trained applicant
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Submit the completed online application and nonrefundable licensure fee; the application remains active for two years and must be resubmitted with materials and fee if incomplete.
Early Examination
Before graduation, submit the application and fee and a program-director letter sent directly on school letterhead confirming good standing, graduation within three months of the letter, and expected graduation date.
Education
Provide official transcripts directly from the school showing a COAMFTE-accredited or CCE-evaluated content-equivalent graduate degree. The rule specifies a 60-semester-hour (80-quarter-hour or equivalent) master’s or doctoral degree; persons who entered study before July 1, 2010 may use the stated 45-semester-hour master’s degree provision.
External Clinical Experience
For clinical experience completed outside Iowa without obtaining a license there, contact the Board to determine what experience qualifies.
Foreign Education
Obtain the International Education Research Foundation Credentials Evaluation Service equivalency evaluation at the applicant’s expense, and receive the Board’s final determination under 481—880.4(3).
Implementation Training Alternative
The general application page lists either proof of AAMFT clinical membership or a completed supervised clinical experience report; the controlling statute and rule require the Board-approved clinical experience.
Implementation Training Alternative Source
{"locator":"Attach Required Documents — Training/Supervision Requirement","name":"DIAL — Apply for a Marital & Family Therapy License","quote":"Training/ Supervision Requirement - One of the following: Proof of clinical membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, OR Completed Supervised Clinical Experience: Supervision report form.","url":"https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/medical/mental-health/mental-behavioral-health/how-do-i-marriage-family-therapy"}
Military Credit
Military education, training and service may receive Board-approved credit toward education or experience, but not toward the examination requirement, under 481—7.2.
Score
Pass the AMFTRB Examination in Marital and Family Therapy at the national testing authority’s passing point in effect when the examination was administered.
Source Applicability
Chapter 880 is applied as effective August 13, 2025. The September 2, 2026 publication’s ARC 0556D changes take effect October 7, 2026 and do not govern this evaluation.
Supervised Clinical Experience
Complete at least two years and 3,000 practice hours after graduate coursework except the thesis, including 1,500 direct-client hours and 110 equitably distributed direct-supervision hours; at most 50 supervision hours may be group supervision. Continue direct supervision after the minimum hours until the experience is complete.
Supervision Documentation
Submit the Board’s supervision plan before supervision and before changing supervisors; ensure reports are submitted at completion or a supervisor’s departure. The Board may require additional supervision or training if the report finds inadequate preparation or violations.
Supervision Grandfather
New or additional requirements of 481—880.7 do not apply to supervision that started before July 20, 2022.
Supervisor
Use an Iowa independently licensed social worker, mental health counselor or MFT with at least three years of independent practice and the required supervision course; otherwise obtain Board approval before supervision begins. No more than four supervisors at once; notify supervisors of each other.
Late renewal within the grace period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete 40 hours of qualifying continuing education in the 25-month period September 1 of the even-numbered year through September 30 of the next even-numbered year. The first renewal is exempt; credit earned before the second renewal may be used for that renewal. Applicable Board-approved extensions and exemptions remain available.
Late Fee
Complete renewal requirements and pay the late fee within the 30-day grace period; otherwise the license becomes inactive and practice must stop pending reactivation.
Mandatory Reporter Training
If professional duties involve counseling or treating children or adults in Iowa, document the applicable two-hour child-abuse or dependent-adult-abuse reporting training within the previous three years; retain documentation for five years. The Board may suspend requirements in the public interest, for active military duty, or under the stated hardship waiver.
Renewal Cycle
Renew by September 30 of an even-numbered year; the biennial license period begins October 1 of that year. Submit the renewal application and fee before expiration; a license first issued within six months of renewal need not renew until the renewal date two years later.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Veteran or active duty military spouse reciprocity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application, fee, section 272C.12 compliance attestation, any required fingerprint materials, criminal and disciplinary records if applicable, and a written scope-of-practice statement with relevant laws.
Compact
A license by verification does not grant compact privileges; 481—501.1(5) excludes an applicant who already holds a privilege to practice through a compact.
Discipline
No revocation or voluntary surrender during investigation; unresolved disciplinary matters or pending unprofessional-conduct proceedings postpone issuance or denial, and criminal history must not disqualify the applicant.
Eligibility
Hold a current good-standing license in another United States issuing jurisdiction with a substantially similar scope of practice.
Implementation Exam Demand
The general DIAL application checklist states the following AMFTRB proof requirement. The specific endorsement and verification provisions determine the route’s legal requirements; applicants should ask the Board how it applies the general checklist to this route.
Implementation Exam Demand Source
{"locator":"Attach Required Documents — Examination Requirement","name":"DIAL — Apply for a Marital & Family Therapy License","quote":"Examination Requirement - Proof of passing the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Board (AMFTRB) Examination in Marital and Family Therapy.","url":"https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/medical/mental-health/mental-behavioral-health/how-do-i-marriage-family-therapy"}
Military Status
Document veteran status or marriage to an active-duty member and an unrestricted license in another jurisdiction. The application receives priority and expedited processing.
Prior Education And Experience
The issuing jurisdiction must verify compliance with its minimum education and, if applicable, experience and clinical-supervision requirements.
Prior Examination
Provide evidence of an examination previously passed if the issuing jurisdiction required one. Section 272C.12(1)(d) does not identify that examination; it is an applicant condition rather than a named AMFTRB adoption.
Regulatory Exam Language
481—7.3(1) states that the applicant must pass examinations required for licensure and receives credit for prior examinations. Section 272C.12 governs issuance without a new examination; the generic regulatory language identifies no separate MFT examination beyond that of the ordinary initial pathway.
Regulatory Exam Language Source
{"locator":"481—7.3(1)","name":"IAC 8/5/26","quote":"7.3(1) A veteran or spouse with an unrestricted professional license in another jurisdiction may apply for licensure in Iowa through reciprocity in accordance with Iowa Code chapter 272C. A veteran or spouse must pass any examinations required for licensure to be eligible for licensure through reciprocity and will be given credit for examinations previously passed when consistent with the licensing authority’s laws and rules on examination requirements. A fully completed application for licensure submitted by a veteran or spouse under this subrule will be given priority and will be expedited.","url":"https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/481.7.pdf"}

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure with military education, training or service credit
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Submit the completed online application and nonrefundable licensure fee; the application remains active for two years and must be resubmitted with materials and fee if incomplete.
Credit Application
Apply for Board credit by identifying the educational or experience requirement and supplying military records. The Board determines credit, informs the applicant in writing, and does not credit the examination requirement.
Early Examination
Before graduation, submit the application and fee and a program-director letter sent directly on school letterhead confirming good standing, graduation within three months of the letter, and expected graduation date.
Education
Provide official transcripts directly from the school showing a COAMFTE-accredited or CCE-evaluated content-equivalent graduate degree. The rule specifies a 60-semester-hour (80-quarter-hour or equivalent) master’s or doctoral degree; persons who entered study before July 1, 2010 may use the stated 45-semester-hour master’s degree provision.
External Clinical Experience
For clinical experience completed outside Iowa without obtaining a license there, contact the Board to determine what experience qualifies.
Implementation Training Alternative
The general application page lists either proof of AAMFT clinical membership or a completed supervised clinical experience report; the controlling statute and rule require the Board-approved clinical experience.
Implementation Training Alternative Source
{"locator":"Attach Required Documents — Training/Supervision Requirement","name":"DIAL — Apply for a Marital & Family Therapy License","quote":"Training/ Supervision Requirement - One of the following: Proof of clinical membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, OR Completed Supervised Clinical Experience: Supervision report form.","url":"https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/medical/mental-health/mental-behavioral-health/how-do-i-marriage-family-therapy"}
Military Credit
Military education, training and service may receive Board-approved credit toward education or experience, but not toward the examination requirement, under 481—7.2.
Score
Pass the AMFTRB Examination in Marital and Family Therapy at the national testing authority’s passing point in effect when the examination was administered.
Source Applicability
Chapter 880 is applied as effective August 13, 2025. The September 2, 2026 publication’s ARC 0556D changes take effect October 7, 2026 and do not govern this evaluation.
Supervised Clinical Experience
Complete at least two years and 3,000 practice hours after graduate coursework except the thesis, including 1,500 direct-client hours and 110 equitably distributed direct-supervision hours; at most 50 supervision hours may be group supervision. Continue direct supervision after the minimum hours until the experience is complete.
Supervision Documentation
Submit the Board’s supervision plan before supervision and before changing supervisors; ensure reports are submitted at completion or a supervisor’s departure. The Board may require additional supervision or training if the report finds inadequate preparation or violations.
Supervision Grandfather
New or additional requirements of 481—880.7 do not apply to supervision that started before July 20, 2022.
Supervisor
Use an Iowa independently licensed social worker, mental health counselor or MFT with at least three years of independent practice and the required supervision course; otherwise obtain Board approval before supervision begins. No more than four supervisors at once; notify supervisors of each other.
Full licensure after military temporary education or training
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Additional Training
Complete the specific education or training identified by the Board under section 272C.12A(2).
Completion
Submit records proving completion of the identified education or training. Section 272C.12A(3) then directs issuance of the full professional license; the AMFTRB leaf reflects the prerequisite examination passed before the temporary stage, not an additional sitting.
Extension
The Board may extend the temporary license case by case for good cause; the full-license application remains pending until training is complete or the temporary license expires.
Military Status
Be a veteran or active-duty military spouse licensed in another state, whose scope of practice is not substantially similar to Iowa and who must complete the Board-identified additional education or training.
Previous AMFTRBPass
481—7.3(5)(a) requires the licensure examination to have been passed before issuing the temporary training license. For this profession, 481—880.3(1)(a)(1) identifies the AMFTRB exam. That currently offered examination remains a leaf even though taken earlier.
Temporary Conditions
The Board specifies the temporary period and conditions for protecting the public. Rule 481—7.3(5)(b) also permits denial for deficiencies that would adversely affect public health, welfare or safety; section 272C.12A(2)(a) directs issuance for completing the prescribed training.
Reactivation of an inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Activity Or Education
Provide a current active license in another jurisdiction, or continuing education completed within two years before applying: 40 hours if inactive less than five years, 80 hours if inactive more than five years. The rule does not expressly assign a number to exactly five years; the applicant should obtain the Board’s determination.
Application
Submit the reactivation application and fee.
Inactive Status
Hold an inactive Iowa marital and family therapist license. No practice is permitted until reactivation.
License Verification
Provide verification from the jurisdiction of most recent licensure showing name, initial licensure date, status and disciplinary action, and disclose public or pending complaints in any jurisdiction. Qualifying web verification may substitute.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete 40 hours of qualifying continuing education in the 25-month period September 1 of the even-numbered year through September 30 of the next even-numbered year. The first renewal is exempt; credit earned before the second renewal may be used for that renewal. Applicable Board-approved extensions and exemptions remain available.
Mandatory Reporter Training
If professional duties involve counseling or treating children or adults in Iowa, document the applicable two-hour child-abuse or dependent-adult-abuse reporting training within the previous three years; retain documentation for five years. The Board may suspend requirements in the public interest, for active military duty, or under the stated hardship waiver.
Renewal Cycle
Renew by September 30 of an even-numbered year; the biennial license period begins October 1 of that year. Submit the renewal application and fee before expiration; a license first issued within six months of renewal need not renew until the renewal date two years later.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by verification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application, fee, section 272C.12 compliance attestation, any required fingerprint materials, criminal and disciplinary records if applicable, and a written scope-of-practice statement with relevant laws.
Compact
A license by verification does not grant compact privileges; 481—501.1(5) excludes an applicant who already holds a privilege to practice through a compact.
Discipline
No revocation or voluntary surrender during investigation; unresolved disciplinary matters or pending unprofessional-conduct proceedings postpone issuance or denial, and criminal history must not disqualify the applicant.
Eligibility
Hold a current good-standing license in another United States issuing jurisdiction with a substantially similar scope of practice.
Implementation Exam Demand
The general DIAL application checklist states the following AMFTRB proof requirement. The specific endorsement and verification provisions determine the route’s legal requirements; applicants should ask the Board how it applies the general checklist to this route.
Implementation Exam Demand Source
{"locator":"Attach Required Documents — Examination Requirement","name":"DIAL — Apply for a Marital & Family Therapy License","quote":"Examination Requirement - Proof of passing the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Board (AMFTRB) Examination in Marital and Family Therapy.","url":"https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/medical/mental-health/mental-behavioral-health/how-do-i-marriage-family-therapy"}
Prior Education And Experience
The issuing jurisdiction must verify compliance with its minimum education and, if applicable, experience and clinical-supervision requirements.
Prior Examination
Provide evidence of an examination previously passed if the issuing jurisdiction required one. Section 272C.12(1)(d) does not identify that examination; it is an applicant condition rather than a named AMFTRB adoption.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure using work experience
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Submit the completed online application and nonrefundable licensure fee; the application remains active for two years and must be resubmitted with materials and fee if incomplete.
Education And Training Substitution
The Board may treat qualifying experience as satisfying education, training and work-experience requirements; all other licensure requirements continue to apply, including the same AMFTRB examination.
Eligibility
Relocate to Iowa from a jurisdiction that did not require licensure for the profession; prove Iowa residency and at least three years of substantially similar work experience in the four years before applying.
Score
Pass the AMFTRB Examination in Marital and Family Therapy at the national testing authority’s passing point in effect when the examination was administered.

Temporary license in marital and family therapy

Three-year supervised license to complete postgraduate clinical experience under Iowa Code section 154D.7.

Licensing authority: Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals · Application information

Temporary supervised licensure — foreign trained applicant
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Submit the completed online application and nonrefundable licensure fee; the application remains active for two years and must be resubmitted with materials and fee if incomplete.
Early Examination
Before graduation, submit the application and fee and a program-director letter sent directly on school letterhead confirming good standing, graduation within three months of the letter, and expected graduation date.
Education
Provide official transcripts directly from the school showing a COAMFTE-accredited or CCE-evaluated content-equivalent graduate degree. The rule specifies a 60-semester-hour (80-quarter-hour or equivalent) master’s or doctoral degree; persons who entered study before July 1, 2010 may use the stated 45-semester-hour master’s degree provision.
Foreign Education
Obtain the International Education Research Foundation Credentials Evaluation Service equivalency evaluation at the applicant’s expense, and receive the Board’s final determination under 481—880.4(3).
Military Credit
Military education, training and service may receive Board-approved credit toward education or experience, but not toward the examination requirement, under 481—7.2.
Practice Setting
Practice only as part of an agency or group with oversight and at least one independently licensed mental health provider; no solo practice or practice solely with other temporary licensees.
Score
Pass the AMFTRB Examination in Marital and Family Therapy at the national testing authority’s passing point in effect when the examination was administered.
Source Applicability
Chapter 880 is applied as effective August 13, 2025. The September 2, 2026 publication’s ARC 0556D changes take effect October 7, 2026 and do not govern this evaluation.
Supervised Purpose
The temporary license is solely for completing postgraduate supervised clinical experience, lasts three years, and may be renewed at the Board’s discretion.
Supervision Plan
Submit a Board supervision plan before licensure. Submit completed-experience attestation within 30 days of completion and remain supervised until a permanent license issues.
Temporary supervised initial licensure
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Submit the completed online application and nonrefundable licensure fee; the application remains active for two years and must be resubmitted with materials and fee if incomplete.
Early Examination
Before graduation, submit the application and fee and a program-director letter sent directly on school letterhead confirming good standing, graduation within three months of the letter, and expected graduation date.
Education
Provide official transcripts directly from the school showing a COAMFTE-accredited or CCE-evaluated content-equivalent graduate degree. The rule specifies a 60-semester-hour (80-quarter-hour or equivalent) master’s or doctoral degree; persons who entered study before July 1, 2010 may use the stated 45-semester-hour master’s degree provision.
Military Credit
Military education, training and service may receive Board-approved credit toward education or experience, but not toward the examination requirement, under 481—7.2.
Practice Setting
Practice only as part of an agency or group with oversight and at least one independently licensed mental health provider; no solo practice or practice solely with other temporary licensees.
Score
Pass the AMFTRB Examination in Marital and Family Therapy at the national testing authority’s passing point in effect when the examination was administered.
Source Applicability
Chapter 880 is applied as effective August 13, 2025. The September 2, 2026 publication’s ARC 0556D changes take effect October 7, 2026 and do not govern this evaluation.
Supervised Purpose
The temporary license is solely for completing postgraduate supervised clinical experience, lasts three years, and may be renewed at the Board’s discretion.
Supervision Plan
Submit a Board supervision plan before licensure. Submit completed-experience attestation within 30 days of completion and remain supervised until a permanent license issues.
Temporary supervised licensure with military service credit
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Submit the completed online application and nonrefundable licensure fee; the application remains active for two years and must be resubmitted with materials and fee if incomplete.
Credit Application
Provide military records and identify the educational or experience requirement for which Board credit is sought. Credit cannot replace the AMFTRB examination.
Early Examination
Before graduation, submit the application and fee and a program-director letter sent directly on school letterhead confirming good standing, graduation within three months of the letter, and expected graduation date.
Education
Provide official transcripts directly from the school showing a COAMFTE-accredited or CCE-evaluated content-equivalent graduate degree. The rule specifies a 60-semester-hour (80-quarter-hour or equivalent) master’s or doctoral degree; persons who entered study before July 1, 2010 may use the stated 45-semester-hour master’s degree provision.
Military Credit
Military education, training and service may receive Board-approved credit toward education or experience, but not toward the examination requirement, under 481—7.2.
Practice Setting
Practice only as part of an agency or group with oversight and at least one independently licensed mental health provider; no solo practice or practice solely with other temporary licensees.
Score
Pass the AMFTRB Examination in Marital and Family Therapy at the national testing authority’s passing point in effect when the examination was administered.
Source Applicability
Chapter 880 is applied as effective August 13, 2025. The September 2, 2026 publication’s ARC 0556D changes take effect October 7, 2026 and do not govern this evaluation.
Supervised Purpose
The temporary license is solely for completing postgraduate supervised clinical experience, lasts three years, and may be renewed at the Board’s discretion.
Supervision Plan
Submit a Board supervision plan before licensure. Submit completed-experience attestation within 30 days of completion and remain supervised until a permanent license issues.
Reactivation of an inactive supervised temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Activity Or Education
Provide a current active license in another jurisdiction, or continuing education completed within two years before applying: 40 hours if inactive less than five years, 80 hours if inactive more than five years. The rule does not expressly assign a number to exactly five years; the applicant should obtain the Board’s determination.
Application
Submit the reactivation application and fee.
Inactive Status
Hold an inactive Iowa marital and family therapist license. No practice is permitted until reactivation.
License Verification
Provide verification from the jurisdiction of most recent licensure showing name, initial licensure date, status and disciplinary action, and disclose public or pending complaints in any jurisdiction. Qualifying web verification may substitute.
Practice Setting
Practice only as part of an agency or group with oversight and at least one independently licensed mental health provider; no solo practice or practice solely with other temporary licensees.
Purpose
The temporary license is solely for completing postgraduate supervised clinical experience, lasts three years, and may be renewed at the Board’s discretion.
Supervision
Submit a Board supervision plan before licensure. Submit completed-experience attestation within 30 days of completion and remain supervised until a permanent license issues.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary renewal of a supervised temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Discretion
The three-year temporary license may be renewed at the Board’s discretion; pay the Board’s temporary renewal fee if renewed.
Practice Setting
Practice only as part of an agency or group with oversight and at least one independently licensed mental health provider; no solo practice or practice solely with other temporary licensees.
Purpose
Continue completing the postgraduate supervised clinical experience under qualified supervision.
Supervision Documentation
Submit a Board supervision plan before licensure. Submit completed-experience attestation within 30 days of completion and remain supervised until a permanent license issues.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Provider
Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB); administered for AMFTRB by Professional Testing Corporation (PTC) at Prometric computer-based testing centers
Format
Computer-based examination of objective multiple-choice questions, each with four alternative answers of which only one is correct; given during a one-week testing window every month; scores on the six domains and the total examination are reported after the window closes
Exam questions
180 multiple-choice items
Time limit
4 hours total testing time
Passing score
Criterion-referenced passing score set on an anchor examination by a modified Angoff method and adjusted across forms by equating; the reported score equals the total number of correct responses
Exam fee
US $370.00 examination fee (includes testing center fees)
Examination outline
  • Domain 01 — The Practice of Systemic Therapy — Tasks related to incorporating systemic theory and perspectives into practice activities, and establishing and maintaining ongoing therapeutic relationships with the client system inclusive of diverse cultural contexts. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 01.01 Conceptualize therapy consistent with the philosophical perspectives of systemic theory.
    • 01.02 Maintain consistency between systemic theory and clinical practice.
    • 01.03 Integrate individual treatment approaches with systemic treatment approaches.
    • 01.04 Integrate multiple dimensions of diversity and social justice theories with systemic treatment approaches.
    • 01.05 Use a systemic perspective to co-create a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space.
    • 01.06 Use a systemic perspective to co-create a therapeutic relationship with the client system.
    • 01.07 Use a systemic perspective to understand the complexities inherent in therapeutic interactions (e.g., family homeostasis, self of the therapist).
  • Domain 02 — Assessing, Hypothesizing, and Diagnosing — Tasks related to assessing and conceptualizing the various dimensions of the client system inclusive of diverse cultural contexts, including forming and reformulating systemic hypotheses and diagnosing the client system to guide therapeutic activities and interventions, including use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 02.01 Assess the client system’s verbal and non-verbal communication styles to develop hypotheses about relationship patterns, perceptions, and responses to the reciprocal influence of relational patterns and the presenting issues.
    • 02.02 Assess the mental status of clients.
    • 02.03 Assess historic and current self-injurious behavior, suicidal ideation and intent, and/or homicidal ideation and intent.
    • 02.04 Identify and assess behavioral dynamics, processes, and interactional patterns (e.g., boundaries, roles, rules, alliances, coalitions, and hierarchies) within the client system to determine systemic functioning.
    • 02.05 Formulate and continually assess hypotheses regarding the client system that consider and incorporate diverse contexts.
    • 02.06 Assess appropriateness of potential treatment and therapeutic delivery modalities for the client system.
    • 02.07 Assess environmental factors (e.g., discrimination, gang violence, migration) affecting the client system.
    • 02.08 Assess the client system’s levels of economic, social, emotional, physical, spiritual, and cognitive functioning.
    • 02.09 Assess historic and current effects of substance use disorders on the functioning of the client system.
    • 02.10 Assess historic and current effects of violence or trauma, including vicarious trauma, on the client system.
    • 02.11 Assess historic and current effects of childhood experiences and traumas on the client system.
    • 02.12 Assess historic and current effects of impact of process use disorders (e.g., gambling, internet use, technology use, shopping) on functioning of the client system.
    • 02.13 Assess historic and current effects of sexual functioning on the client system.
    • 02.14 Assess how the developmental and family life cycle stages of the client system impact problem formation, maintenance, and resolution.
    • 02.15 Assess strengths, resources, coping skills, and resilience within and available to the client system.
    • 02.16 Select, administer, review, and/or interpret results of standardized instruments within the therapist’s training, competence, and scope of practice.
    • 02.17 Assess and diagnose clients in accordance with current DSM and ICD diagnostic criteria while maintaining a systems perspective.
    • 02.18 Formulate treatment hypotheses that integrate systemic perspectives, assessment inventories, and diagnostic impressions.
    • 02.19 Assess effects of occupational issues on the client system (e.g., military personnel, workers in geographically dispersed locations, first responders).
    • 02.20 Collaborate with the client system to determine need for evaluation by other professional and community systems.
    • 02.21 Collaborate with professional and community systems as appropriate in making diagnoses and establishing treatment priorities.
    • 02.22 Collaborate with the client system to refer as appropriate based on diagnoses and treatment priorities.
  • Domain 03 — Designing and Conducting Treatment — Tasks related to developing and implementing a course of culturally responsive treatment with the client system, including identifying possible therapeutic models, implementing associated interventions, and treatment planning, including use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (17%; 30 items) (17%)
    • 03.01 Evaluate and maintain a quality therapeutic alliance with the client system.
    • 03.02 Establish therapeutic contracts.
    • 03.03 Utilize assessment information to develop a treatment plan that reflects a contextual understanding of the presenting issue.
    • 03.04 Determine relevant short-term goals, long-term goals and objectives for treatment, as well as criteria for successful completion of treatment.
    • 03.05 Identify the client system’s previous and current attempts to resolve the presenting issues.
    • 03.06 Identify members of client and collateral systems involved in resolving issues.
    • 03.07 Develop and monitor ongoing safety plan to address identified safety risks for the client in all therapeutic delivery contexts.
    • 03.08 Engage in therapeutic interventions based on theory and current research and a shared contextual understanding of the client system and presenting issues.
    • 03.09 Clarify with the client system the rationale for selecting therapeutic interventions as appropriate.
    • 03.10 Collaborate with the client system to determine sequence of treatment and identify which members will be involved.
    • 03.11 Develop and monitor recovery-oriented systemic care for treatment of substance use disorders.
    • 03.12 Use genograms and/or family mapping as therapeutic interventions as indicated.
    • 03.13 Facilitate client system change through restructuring and reorganization.
    • 03.14 Collaborate with the client system to identify and explore competing priorities of client issues to be addressed in treatment.
    • 03.15 Assist the client system in developing decision-making, coping, and effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills in their relational contexts.
    • 03.16 Attend to the homeostatic process and its impact on the client system’s ability to attain therapeutic goals.
    • 03.17 Assist the client system in developing alternative perspectives of the presenting issues to facilitate solutions.
    • 03.18 Influence client behavior and perceptions through use of metaphor, rewriting narratives, mindfulness, etc.
    • 03.19 Integrate cultural, spiritual, social, intellectual, and biological characteristics and strengths of the client system when devising effective treatment strategies.
    • 03.20 Recognize and support client autonomy when devising effective treatment strategies.
    • 03.21 Maintain awareness of common side effects of medications, monitor client system for these within the boundaries of professional competence, and coordinate care with any relevant prescribers.
    • 03.22 Adapt therapeutic stance and interventions to accommodate the process and structure of all therapeutic delivery modalities.
  • Domain 04 — Evaluating Ongoing Process and Terminating Treatment — Tasks related to continuously evaluating the therapeutic process, incorporating feedback into the course of treatment, and planning for termination, inclusive of different cultural contexts and use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 04.01 Use theory and current research in the ongoing evaluation of process, outcomes, and termination.
    • 04.02 Evaluate the progress of therapy in collaboration with client and collateral systems as indicated.
    • 04.03 Modify treatment plan in collaboration with client and collateral systems as indicated.
    • 04.04 Continually evaluate client system appropriateness for all therapeutic delivery modalities.
    • 04.05 Develop a termination plan in collaboration with the client and collateral systems to maintain therapeutic gains after treatment has ended.
    • 04.06 Terminate therapeutic relationship in a professional and culturally responsive manner.
  • Domain 05 — Managing Crisis Situations — Tasks related to assessing and managing emergency situations, inclusive of different cultural contexts, and intervening when clinically indicated and/or legally mandated. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 05.01 Assess impairment in the client system during crisis situations to determine if and what immediate interventions may be needed.
    • 05.02 Assess for presence of suicidal ideation and determine the level of intervention.
    • 05.03 Assess for risk of violence toward the client from others to determine the need for intervention.
    • 05.04 Assess the client’s potential for self-injurious behavior to determine level of intervention.
    • 05.05 Assess the client’s potential for violence or harm toward others, including the therapist, to determine level of intervention.
    • 05.06 Assess risk of violence toward therapist from sources outside of the client system and develop a safety plan.
    • 05.07 Assess impact of community-level crisis on client system and develop interventions as they pertain to that crisis.
    • 05.08 Assess the impact of client system’s trauma history and other relevant contextual factors on current crisis.
    • 05.09 Collaborate with other relevant stakeholders in managing client system’s crisis.
    • 05.10 Respond to emerging crisis as appropriate to the therapeutic delivery modality and use relevant crisis resources.
  • Domain 06 — Maintaining Ethical, Legal, and Professional Standards — Tasks related to ongoing adherence to legal and ethical codes and treatment agreements, maintaining culturally responsive competency, upholding professional standards, and utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical practice. (19%; 34 items) (19%)
    • 06.01 Demonstrate professional responsibility and competence regarding legal issues and regulations across therapeutic delivery modalities, including use of artificial intelligence (AI).
    • 06.02 Compare agency and employment policies with relevant ethics code, statutes, case law, and regulations and privilege the higher standard.
    • 06.03 Integrate current ethical codes of licensing boards, relevant professional organizations, and associations into appropriate professional practice.
    • 06.04 Adhere to relevant business laws related to clinical practice (e.g., Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, False Claims Act, etc.)
    • 06.05 Practice within therapist’s scope of competence.
    • 06.06 Maintain awareness of and effectively manage how the therapist’s personal issues, life experiences, values and morals, and previous trauma impact the therapeutic process.
    • 06.07 Maintain awareness of and effectively manage how the supervisors’ personal issues, life experiences, values and morals, and previous trauma influence the supervisory process
    • 06.08 Adhere to treatment agreements with client systems and respect the rights of clients.
    • 06.09 Provide the client system with written professional disclosures regarding fees, credentials, reporting complaints, confidentiality, privileged communication, and providing technologically assisted services, including use of artificial intelligence (AI), etc.
    • 06.10 Confirm the client system’s identities, locations, and safety levels at the beginning of each teletherapy session.
    • 06.11 Monitor and mitigate risk for potential exploitation of the client system by the therapist.
    • 06.12 Consult with colleagues and other professionals as necessary regarding ethical and legal issues, and document these consultations.
    • 06.13 Respect the roles and responsibilities of other professionals involved in the client system’s treatment process as they relate to ethical and legal issues.
    • 06.14 Maintain accurate and timely records including long-term safe and confidential storage and plan record transfer and/or disposal within timeframes specified by current statutes.
    • 06.15 Adhere to ethical and regulatory guidelines for engaging in the supervisor-supervisee relationship across modalities.
Examination sources