Utah Marriage & Family Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

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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.

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Supervised associate MFT classification; independent practice is prohibited.

Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information

Reinstatement for an additional three year associate term

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Apply and pay the fee.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam attempt: Attempt the MFT profession exam at least once while holding the previous associate license; passing is not required for this term.
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Professional development: Complete at least 40 professional-development hours in the preceding two years.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supervision progress: Complete at least half the supervision hours required to advance licensure.
Term: One additional three-year term under R156-60e-403.1(3).

Endorsement: further evaluation of previously licensed applicant for the associate classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee, qualifications and standing evidence.
Classification: The equivalency determination is to the associate classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency review: DOPL evaluates substantial similarity of the originating qualifications, or additional education or experience that will establish it.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
License activity: Required licensed practice may be documented without a currently active originating license under R156-1-302(2).
Originating license: Applicant is or has been licensed elsewhere but does not meet 58-1-302(2) or (3).
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Endorsement: demonstrated competency and one year of licensed practice for the associate classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee, qualifications and standing evidence.
Classification: The equivalency determination is to the associate classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Competency evaluation: DOPL determines that education, credentialing examination, experience and skills demonstrate competency.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
License activity: Required licensed practice may be documented without a currently active originating license under R156-1-302(2).
Originating license: Licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Practice experience: At least one year of practice under that license.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Endorsement: comparable United States license and one year of practice for the associate classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee, qualifications and standing evidence.
Classification: The equivalency determination is to the associate classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
License activity: Required licensed practice may be documented without a currently active originating license under R156-1-302(2).
Originating license: A license from a United States state, district or territory with a similar scope of practice, in good standing.
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Practice experience: At least one year of practice under that license.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Endorsement: substantially similar originating licensure requirements for the associate classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee, qualifications and standing evidence.
Classification: The equivalency determination is to the associate classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency: DOPL determines that requirements when the originating license was issued were substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
License activity: Required licensed practice may be documented without a currently active originating license under R156-1-302(2).
Originating license: Licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Endorsement: unlicensed applicant with equivalent qualifications for the associate classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee, qualifications and standing evidence.
Classification: The equivalency determination is to the associate classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency: DOPL finds the applicant's education, credentialing examination and experience substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
License activity: Required licensed practice may be documented without a currently active originating license under R156-1-302(2).
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Prior license: The applicant has never been licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Initial associate licensure

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application: Submit application and fee.
Background check: Consent to and complete the criminal background check and disclose requested criminal history under 58-60-305(1)(h).
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Education: Provide certified transcripts for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's or doctoral degree, or an accredited qualifying equivalent degree under R156-60e-302.3. Equivalent degrees require the enumerated coursework and a 400-hour practicum including 100 supervision and 300 practice hours, at least 150 in couple or family therapy.
Exam boundary: 58-60-305(2) invokes (1)(a)-(c) and (h), omitting the MFT examination paragraph (g). R156-60e-302.3(5) addresses MFT applicants, not AMFT initial issuance.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supervised scope: Practice only within supervised employment in a public agency or private clinic; no independent MFT practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-60-305(2), exhaustive associate licensure qualifications
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(1)-(3), MFT and AMFT educational requirements
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Military service extension and renewal/reactivation

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application window: Request renewal within ninety days after termination of qualifying orders and provide activation/deployment and discharge orders.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Excluded service: Regular annual training, in-state active orders and orders not requiring relocation outside Utah are excluded.
Military service: License expires during qualifying activation outside Utah or service-member deployment; statutory extension lasts until ninety days after discharge or deployment end.
Renewal qualifications: Meet other renewal requirements; continuing education/training requirements are excused and renewal is at no cost.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Section 71A-8-103
71A-8-103(1)-(5), military extension and renewal requirements
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development

Reinstatement within thirty days after nonrenewal

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application and fees: Submit the completed renewal form and renewal/late fees.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Expiration: License was active and in good standing when it expired; application is filed within thirty days.
Renewal compliance: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(1)-(2), reinstatement within two years
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement from thirty one days to two years after nonrenewal

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application and fees: Submit completed renewal form and renewal/reinstatement fees.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Expiration: License was active and in good standing when it expired.
Renewal compliance: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(1)-(2), reinstatement within two years
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement after disciplinary term or expiration in disciplined status

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Competence and fees: Demonstrate current competence to DOPL/Board; pay renewal and reinstatement fees and outstanding fines/citations.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Current qualifications: Unless the disciplinary order provides otherwise, submit initial-qualification evidence and comply with reinstatement conditions.
Probation: On Division request the specific mental-health rule permits a three- or five-year probationary license; applicant-specific terms or waivers are conditions.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308i, reinstatement after discipline or disciplinary expiration
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-403.1(6), disciplined license reinstatement
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-305(2), exhaustive associate licensure qualifications
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(1)-(3), MFT and AMFT educational requirements
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement or restoration during restriction, suspension or probation

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board review: On Division request, meet with the investigations advisory committee; Board-approved conditions can include three- or five-year probation.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Individual conditions: Individual disciplinary-order terms remain applicant conditions; the general procedure identifies no additional current examination for this modification.
Order: Proceed under the existing disciplinary order. Unless the order provides otherwise, petition at reasonable intervals to modify the order rather than apply for initial licensure.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308h, reinstatement during discipline
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-403.1(6), disciplined license reinstatement
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement after more than five years without qualifying continuous practice

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application: Submit application and fee.
Background check: Consent to and complete the criminal background check and disclose requested criminal history under 58-60-305(1)(h).
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Education: Provide certified transcripts for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's or doctoral degree, or an accredited qualifying equivalent degree under R156-60e-302.3. Equivalent degrees require the enumerated coursework and a 400-hour practicum including 100 supervision and 300 practice hours, at least 150 in couple or family therapy.
Exam boundary: 58-60-305(2) invokes (1)(a)-(c) and (h), omitting the MFT examination paragraph (g). R156-60e-302.3(5) addresses MFT applicants, not AMFT initial issuance.
Expiration: Utah license expired more than five years ago; current initial associate qualifications apply.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supervised scope: Practice only within supervised employment in a public agency or private clinic; no independent MFT practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-1-308(6)(a), current initial qualifications for late reinstatement
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(3), late reinstatement or active-practice return
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-305(2), exhaustive associate licensure qualifications
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(1)-(3), MFT and AMFT educational requirements
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement after two to five years of expiration

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board review: Meet the qualifications advisory committee on Division request to evaluate safe, competent practice.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Prior status: Unencumbered license expired between two and five years ago.
Remediation: If recommended with Board concurrence, complete a supervised practice plan, potentially up to 1,200 direct care hours at associate level, or up to 40 specified continuing education hours.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-403.1(5), reinstatement between two and five years
Utah Code Title 58
58-1-308(6)(a), current initial qualifications for late reinstatement
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Relicensure following revocation

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board probation: The specific mental-health reinstatement rule permits Division-requested review and three- or five-year probationary conditions.
Competence and fees: Demonstrate present professional competence and pay the new-applicant fee.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Current qualifications: Meet current initial qualifications and reinstatement conditions; submit supporting documents.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308j, relicensure after revocation
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-403.1(6), disciplined license reinstatement
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-305(2), exhaustive associate licensure qualifications
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(1)-(3), MFT and AMFT educational requirements
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Relicensure after voluntary surrender in good standing

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Applicable conditions: Current initial qualifications apply when the applicable reinstatement procedure requires them; early renewal-equivalent reinstatement and the statutory return-practice examination waiver remain available applicant conditions.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Surrender agreement: The written surrender agreement may govern reacquisition; otherwise use the applicable reinstatement procedures based on elapsed time and qualification status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308k, relicensure after surrender
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(1)-(2), reinstatement within two years
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(3), late reinstatement or active-practice return
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-305(2), exhaustive associate licensure qualifications
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(1)-(3), MFT and AMFT educational requirements
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Relicensure after surrender while not in good standing

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Agreement: The written surrender agreement and applicable mental-health Board probation/review provisions remain conditions.
Competence and fees: Provide Division/Board evidence of current competence; pay the new-applicant fee and outstanding fines/citations.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Current qualifications: Supply the current initial-application qualifications and satisfy reinstatement conditions.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308k, relicensure after surrender
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-403.1(6), disciplined license reinstatement
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-305(2), exhaustive associate licensure qualifications
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(1)-(3), MFT and AMFT educational requirements
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Biennial renewal

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board page difference: The DOPL renewal page adds 15 MFT-specific hours and describes 30 live/in-person and 10 self-study hours. The current rule permits its stated formats and limits; retain these page statements as applicant-facing instructions.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Grandfather education: A person licensed on May 1, 2000 may renew without satisfying the later educational requirements under 58-60-305.5(1).
Professional development: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Proration and waiver: Hours prorate with licensure timing; the rule permits limited carryover and Division deferral/waiver. Keep proof for two years after the cycle.
Renewal cycle: September 30 of even-numbered years for the MFT and AMFT classifications; apply and pay the appropriate renewal fee.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supervisor development: Approved clinical supervisors must complete six additional supervisor-specific hours under R156-60e-402.1(9).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(4)-(9), records, proration, waiver and supervisor development
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308c(5)-(6), complete renewal procedure
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement after qualifying continuous practice elsewhere or federal employment

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application window: Apply within six months after returning to Utah domicile or terminating full-time government service.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam waiver: 58-1-308(6)(b) expressly permits this reinstatement without taking an examination.
Qualifying practice: Continuously active since Utah expiration in full-time United States government employment or licensed practice in another United States jurisdiction.
Renewal qualifications: Submit compliance with renewal qualifications and pay renewal and reinstatement fees.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-1-308(6)(b), reinstatement without examination after qualifying active practice
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(3), late reinstatement or active-practice return
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist Extern

Temporary externship classification for limited educational deficiencies; maximum term and extensions follow statute and rule.

Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information

Extension of a current externship for one additional three year term

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Apply and pay the application fee.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam attempt: Attempt the MFT profession examination at least once while holding the previous extern license.
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Term: One additional three-year term; statutory good-cause extension discretion also remains an applicant condition.

Reinstatement of an expired externship for one additional three year term

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Apply and pay the application fee.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam attempt: Attempt the MFT profession examination at least once while holding the previous extern license.
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Term: One additional three-year term; statutory good-cause extension discretion also remains an applicant condition.

Endorsement: further evaluation of previously licensed applicant for an equivalent extern classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Classification: The equivalency determination is to the extern classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency review: DOPL evaluates substantial similarity of the originating qualifications, or additional education or experience that will establish it.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
Extern restrictions: Expires on issuance of the applied-for license or three years after issuance, subject to statutory good-cause extension and the implementing additional-term requirements.
Originating license: Applicant is or has been licensed elsewhere but does not meet 58-1-302(2) or (3).
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Professional standing: No disciplinary action pending or in effect related to mental health practice.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Endorsement: demonstrated competency and one year of licensed practice for an equivalent extern classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Classification: The equivalency determination is to the extern classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Competency evaluation: DOPL determines that education, credentialing examination, experience and skills demonstrate competency.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
Extern restrictions: Expires on issuance of the applied-for license or three years after issuance, subject to statutory good-cause extension and the implementing additional-term requirements.
Originating license: Licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Practice experience: At least one year of practice under that license.
Professional standing: No disciplinary action pending or in effect related to mental health practice.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Endorsement: comparable United States license and one year of practice for an equivalent extern classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Classification: The equivalency determination is to the extern classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
Extern restrictions: Expires on issuance of the applied-for license or three years after issuance, subject to statutory good-cause extension and the implementing additional-term requirements.
Originating license: A license from a United States state, district or territory with a similar scope of practice, in good standing.
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Practice experience: At least one year of practice under that license.
Professional standing: No disciplinary action pending or in effect related to mental health practice.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Endorsement: substantially similar originating licensure requirements for an equivalent extern classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Classification: The equivalency determination is to the extern classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency: DOPL determines that requirements when the originating license was issued were substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
Extern restrictions: Expires on issuance of the applied-for license or three years after issuance, subject to statutory good-cause extension and the implementing additional-term requirements.
Originating license: Licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Professional standing: No disciplinary action pending or in effect related to mental health practice.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Endorsement: unlicensed applicant with equivalent qualifications for an equivalent extern classification

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Classification: The equivalency determination is to the extern classification; DOPL's separate profession-examination discretion for endorsement remains applicable.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency: DOPL finds the applicant's education, credentialing examination and experience substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
Exam discretion: R156-1-302(4) permits DOPL to require an examination required for licensure in this profession. The profession's AMFTRB exam is retained for this discretionary endorsement provision; the original AMFT or extern issuance route separately has no exam requirement. Any applicant waiver remains a condition.
Extern restrictions: Expires on issuance of the applied-for license or three years after issuance, subject to statutory good-cause extension and the implementing additional-term requirements.
Other state exam alternative: Utah R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) names the California BBS MFT Clinical Examination as a profession-examination alternative. It is a condition only; no examination of another state is surveyed or referenced.
Prior license: The applicant has never been licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Professional standing: No disciplinary action pending or in effect related to mental health practice.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Initial educational deficiency externship licensure

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application: Submit Part 3 application and fee.
Board page difference: The extern application page still references R156-60b-102 and a 600-hour practicum with 500 direct-contact hours and 250 couple/family hours. The current R156-60e qualifications govern; retain the page's requests as applicant-facing conditions.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Education: Hold an earned mental-health-prerequisite master's or doctoral degree with no more than six semester or eight quarter hours of defined deficiencies; permitted deficiencies are in R156-60e-302.3(3)(a), (c), (e) or (f).
Employment supervision: Provide mental health therapy as an employee of a public or private organization under qualified licensed supervision.
Hours boundary: Hours while correcting the defined deficiencies do not count toward internship, practicum or associate-level licensure.
Professional standing: No disciplinary action pending or in effect related to mental health practice.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Term: Expires on issuance of the applied-for license or three years after issuance, subject to statutory good-cause extension and the implementing additional-term requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-60-117(1)(a)-(e), externship issuance qualifications
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-117(1)(f)-(3), disciplinary standing and externship term
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(4), permitted educational deficiencies and extern practice
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-102.3(3)-(4), extern identity and educational deficiency

Marriage and Family Therapist

Independent MFT classification under Part 3. Restricted, probationary, conditional and inactive statuses retain this classification.

Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing · Application information

Initial licensure through the alternate failed examination pathway

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Additional client care: Complete 500 additional direct client care hours under one supervisor, including at least 25 direct clinical supervision hours and at least five direct observation hours.
Application: Submit the Division-approved application and applicable fee.
Application form guidance: The v20251211 DOPL application still asks for 3,000 supervised hours and older non-COAMFTE coursework/practicum details. The controlling statute and May 26, 2026 rule govern; applicants see these implementing requests as application conditions.
Background check: Consent to and complete the criminal background check and disclose requested criminal history under 58-60-305(1)(h).
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Direct client care: Complete at least 1,200 post-degree direct client care hours; at least 500 are therapy to couples, families or groups. Include at least 100 direct clinical supervision hours, at least 25 direct observation hours, and no more than 25 concurrent group supervision hours.
Education: Provide certified transcripts for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's or doctoral degree, or an accredited qualifying equivalent degree under R156-60e-302.3. Equivalent degrees require the enumerated coursework and a 400-hour practicum including 100 supervision and 300 practice hours, at least 150 in couple or family therapy.
Exam attempt: Document at least one examination attempt without a passing score. R156-60e-303.1 requires an attempt after May 1, 2024. Passing is not required on this pathway.
Federal supervision: If federally required for CMS Medicare eligible-professional status, document at least 3,000 clinical supervision hours or at least two years of clinical supervision under 58-60-305(1)(d).
Implementation difference: The DOPL exam-information page states: "In order to be licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Utah, applicants must pass the National Marital and Family Therapy (MFT) Exam administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB)." The statutory failed-attempt pathway controls this route.
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Practice setting: Obtain supervised experience legally, after the degree, in a public agency or private clinic, while holding an active associate license or lawful equivalent; R156-60e-304.1 specifies applicable exceptions.
Recommendations: Submit the direct clinical supervisor recommendation and a separate approved licensed mental health professional recommendation based on direct observation, addressing the rule's competence and ethical-conduct topics.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Suicide prevention: Complete two hours of approved suicide prevention training after completing the qualifying degree.
Supervisor election form: Submit the signed alternate-pathway supervisor association form before starting the additional 500 hours.

Endorsement: further evaluation of previously licensed applicant

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee and satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications and professional standing.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency review: DOPL evaluates substantial similarity of the originating qualifications, or additional education or experience that will establish it.
Exam discretion: Under R156-1-302(4), DOPL may require one or more examinations required for MFT licensure; the national exam is therefore retained. The named other-state MFT clinical examination is only a Utah-stated applicant alternative.
Guidance currency: The dated 2022 equivalency map and current implementing pages do not override 58-1-302 or the current rule. No other jurisdiction's law or credential is surveyed.
Originating license: Applicant is or has been licensed elsewhere but does not meet 58-1-302(2) or (3).
Originating license activity: R156-1-302(2) does not require the originating license to remain active when the required licensed-practice experience is established.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supplemental education: The January 6, 2022 endorsement guide linked by DOPL requests two hours of suicide prevention and three hours of MFT-related ethics, plus relational-therapy documentation where required.

Endorsement: demonstrated competency and one year of licensed practice

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee and satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications and professional standing.
Competency evaluation: DOPL determines that education, credentialing examination, experience and skills demonstrate competency.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam discretion: Under R156-1-302(4), DOPL may require one or more examinations required for MFT licensure; the national exam is therefore retained. The named other-state MFT clinical examination is only a Utah-stated applicant alternative.
Guidance currency: The dated 2022 equivalency map and current implementing pages do not override 58-1-302 or the current rule. No other jurisdiction's law or credential is surveyed.
Originating license: Licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Originating license activity: R156-1-302(2) does not require the originating license to remain active when the required licensed-practice experience is established.
Practice experience: At least one year of practice under that license.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supplemental education: The January 6, 2022 endorsement guide linked by DOPL requests two hours of suicide prevention and three hours of MFT-related ethics, plus relational-therapy documentation where required.

Endorsement: profession specific active practice documentation

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee and satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications and professional standing.
Board page difference: The current DOPL endorsement page states 3,000 lawful practice hours including 1,000 mental health therapy hours; the statute states 4,000. The v20251211 application requests 4,000 work hours including 500 relational therapy hours. These implementing requests are retained as conditions.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam discretion: Under R156-1-302(4), DOPL may require one or more examinations required for MFT licensure; the national exam is therefore retained. The named other-state MFT clinical examination is only a Utah-stated applicant alternative.
Guidance currency: The dated 2022 equivalency map and current implementing pages do not override 58-1-302 or the current rule. No other jurisdiction's law or credential is surveyed.
Originating license: Current United States licensure in good standing with no disciplinary action pending or in effect.
Originating license activity: R156-1-302(2) does not require the originating license to remain active when the required licensed-practice experience is established.
Practice experience: 58-60-115 requires at least 4,000 lawful practice hours including 1,000 mental health therapy hours, subject to the controlling 58-1-302 endorsement law.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supplemental education: The January 6, 2022 endorsement guide linked by DOPL requests two hours of suicide prevention and three hours of MFT-related ethics, plus relational-therapy documentation where required.

Endorsement: comparable United States license and one year of practice

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee and satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications and professional standing.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam discretion: Under R156-1-302(4), DOPL may require one or more examinations required for MFT licensure; the national exam is therefore retained. The named other-state MFT clinical examination is only a Utah-stated applicant alternative.
Guidance currency: The dated 2022 equivalency map and current implementing pages do not override 58-1-302 or the current rule. No other jurisdiction's law or credential is surveyed.
Originating license: A license from a United States state, district or territory with a similar scope of practice, in good standing.
Originating license activity: R156-1-302(2) does not require the originating license to remain active when the required licensed-practice experience is established.
Practice experience: At least one year of practice under that license.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supplemental education: The January 6, 2022 endorsement guide linked by DOPL requests two hours of suicide prevention and three hours of MFT-related ethics, plus relational-therapy documentation where required.

Endorsement: substantially similar originating licensure requirements

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee and satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications and professional standing.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency: DOPL determines that requirements when the originating license was issued were substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
Exam discretion: Under R156-1-302(4), DOPL may require one or more examinations required for MFT licensure; the national exam is therefore retained. The named other-state MFT clinical examination is only a Utah-stated applicant alternative.
Guidance currency: The dated 2022 equivalency map and current implementing pages do not override 58-1-302 or the current rule. No other jurisdiction's law or credential is surveyed.
Originating license: Licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Originating license activity: R156-1-302(2) does not require the originating license to remain active when the required licensed-practice experience is established.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supplemental education: The January 6, 2022 endorsement guide linked by DOPL requests two hours of suicide prevention and three hours of MFT-related ethics, plus relational-therapy documentation where required.

Endorsement: unlicensed applicant with equivalent qualifications

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit application, fee and satisfactory evidence of identity, qualifications and professional standing.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Equivalency: DOPL finds the applicant's education, credentialing examination and experience substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
Exam discretion: Under R156-1-302(4), DOPL may require one or more examinations required for MFT licensure; the national exam is therefore retained. The named other-state MFT clinical examination is only a Utah-stated applicant alternative.
Guidance currency: The dated 2022 equivalency map and current implementing pages do not override 58-1-302 or the current rule. No other jurisdiction's law or credential is surveyed.
Originating license activity: R156-1-302(2) does not require the originating license to remain active when the required licensed-practice experience is established.
Prior license: The applicant has never been licensed in a United States or foreign jurisdiction.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supplemental education: The January 6, 2022 endorsement guide linked by DOPL requests two hours of suicide prevention and three hours of MFT-related ethics, plus relational-therapy documentation where required.

Activation of an inactive MFT license

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application: Verified activation application, appropriate fee and proof of current renewal qualifications.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Professional development: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Renewal term: Activation during the final twelve months of a cycle includes the rest of that cycle and a full next cycle.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-305(1)(dd), MFT eligibility for inactive licensure
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-305(2)-(5), inactive status and activation
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development

Conditional MFT initial issuance during an audit, investigation or inspection

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit the Division-approved application and applicable fee.
Application form guidance: The v20251211 DOPL application still asks for 3,000 supervised hours and older non-COAMFTE coursework/practicum details. The controlling statute and May 26, 2026 rule govern; applicants see these implementing requests as application conditions.
Background check: Consent to and complete the criminal background check and disclose requested criminal history under 58-60-305(1)(h).
Conditional pending: R156-1-308f permits conditional initial, renewal or reinstatement issuance while an audit, investigation or inspection remains pending; final issuance or denial follows its completion.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Direct client care: Complete at least 1,200 post-degree direct client care hours; at least 500 are therapy to couples, families or groups. Include at least 100 direct clinical supervision hours, at least 25 direct observation hours, and no more than 25 concurrent group supervision hours.
Education: Provide certified transcripts for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's or doctoral degree, or an accredited qualifying equivalent degree under R156-60e-302.3. Equivalent degrees require the enumerated coursework and a 400-hour practicum including 100 supervision and 300 practice hours, at least 150 in couple or family therapy.
Federal supervision: If federally required for CMS Medicare eligible-professional status, document at least 3,000 clinical supervision hours or at least two years of clinical supervision under 58-60-305(1)(d).
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Practice setting: Obtain supervised experience legally, after the degree, in a public agency or private clinic, while holding an active associate license or lawful equivalent; R156-60e-304.1 specifies applicable exceptions.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Suicide prevention: Complete two hours of approved suicide prevention training after completing the qualifying degree.

Conditional MFT reinstatement during an audit, investigation or inspection

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Conditional pending: R156-1-308f permits conditional initial, renewal or reinstatement issuance while an audit, investigation or inspection remains pending; final issuance or denial follows its completion.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Underlying reinstatement: Meet the relevant early, late or disciplinary reinstatement requirements. Current initial examinations are retained when the underlying procedure requires them; statutory waivers and individual-order exceptions remain conditions.

Conditional MFT renewal during an audit, investigation or inspection

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board page difference: The DOPL renewal page adds 15 MFT-specific hours and describes 30 live/in-person and 10 self-study hours. The current rule permits its stated formats and limits; retain these page statements as applicant-facing instructions.
Conditional pending: R156-1-308f permits conditional initial, renewal or reinstatement issuance while an audit, investigation or inspection remains pending; final issuance or denial follows its completion.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Grandfather education: A person licensed on May 1, 2000 may renew without satisfying the later educational requirements under 58-60-305.5(1).
Professional development: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Proration and waiver: Hours prorate with licensure timing; the rule permits limited carryover and Division deferral/waiver. Keep proof for two years after the cycle.
Renewal cycle: September 30 of even-numbered years for the MFT and AMFT classifications; apply and pay the appropriate renewal fee.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supervisor development: Approved clinical supervisors must complete six additional supervisor-specific hours under R156-60e-402.1(9).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308f(1)-(4), conditional initial, renewal or reinstatement issuance
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308c(5)-(6), complete renewal procedure

Placement of an active MFT license on inactive status

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application: Verified application documenting inactive eligibility and the appropriate fee.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Practice: No right to practice while inactive; status may remain inactive indefinitely unless another rule provides otherwise.
Prior status: Active MFT license in good standing.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-305(1)(dd), MFT eligibility for inactive licensure
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-305(2)-(5), inactive status and activation
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal

Military service extension and renewal/reactivation

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application window: Request renewal within ninety days after termination of qualifying orders and provide activation/deployment and discharge orders.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Excluded service: Regular annual training, in-state active orders and orders not requiring relocation outside Utah are excluded.
Military service: License expires during qualifying activation outside Utah or service-member deployment; statutory extension lasts until ninety days after discharge or deployment end.
Renewal qualifications: Meet other renewal requirements; continuing education/training requirements are excused and renewal is at no cost.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Section 71A-8-103
71A-8-103(1)-(5), military extension and renewal requirements
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development

Reinstatement within thirty days after nonrenewal

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application and fees: Submit the completed renewal form and renewal/late fees.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Expiration: License was active and in good standing when it expired; application is filed within thirty days.
Renewal compliance: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(1)-(2), reinstatement within two years
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement from thirty one days to two years after nonrenewal

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application and fees: Submit completed renewal form and renewal/reinstatement fees.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Expiration: License was active and in good standing when it expired.
Renewal compliance: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(1)-(2), reinstatement within two years
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement after disciplinary term or expiration in disciplined status

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Competence and fees: Demonstrate current competence to DOPL/Board; pay renewal and reinstatement fees and outstanding fines/citations.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Current qualifications: Unless the disciplinary order provides otherwise, submit initial-qualification evidence and comply with reinstatement conditions.
Probation: On Division request the specific mental-health rule permits a three- or five-year probationary license; applicant-specific terms or waivers are conditions.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Reinstatement or restoration during restriction, suspension or probation

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board review: On Division request, meet with the investigations advisory committee; Board-approved conditions can include three- or five-year probation.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Individual conditions: Individual disciplinary-order terms remain applicant conditions; the general procedure identifies no additional current examination for this modification.
Order: Proceed under the existing disciplinary order. Unless the order provides otherwise, petition at reasonable intervals to modify the order rather than apply for initial licensure.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308h, reinstatement during discipline
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-403.1(6), disciplined license reinstatement
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Reinstatement after more than five years without qualifying continuous practice

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit the Division-approved application and applicable fee.
Application form guidance: The v20251211 DOPL application still asks for 3,000 supervised hours and older non-COAMFTE coursework/practicum details. The controlling statute and May 26, 2026 rule govern; applicants see these implementing requests as application conditions.
Background check: Consent to and complete the criminal background check and disclose requested criminal history under 58-60-305(1)(h).
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Current qualification: Apply as a new applicant and meet current initial qualifications.
Direct client care: Complete at least 1,200 post-degree direct client care hours; at least 500 are therapy to couples, families or groups. Include at least 100 direct clinical supervision hours, at least 25 direct observation hours, and no more than 25 concurrent group supervision hours.
Education: Provide certified transcripts for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's or doctoral degree, or an accredited qualifying equivalent degree under R156-60e-302.3. Equivalent degrees require the enumerated coursework and a 400-hour practicum including 100 supervision and 300 practice hours, at least 150 in couple or family therapy.
Expiration: Utah license expired more than five years ago and the continuous active-practice return exception does not apply.
Federal supervision: If federally required for CMS Medicare eligible-professional status, document at least 3,000 clinical supervision hours or at least two years of clinical supervision under 58-60-305(1)(d).
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Practice setting: Obtain supervised experience legally, after the degree, in a public agency or private clinic, while holding an active associate license or lawful equivalent; R156-60e-304.1 specifies applicable exceptions.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Suicide prevention: Complete two hours of approved suicide prevention training after completing the qualifying degree.

Reinstatement after two to five years of expiration

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board review: Meet the qualifications advisory committee on Division request to evaluate safe, competent practice.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Prior status: Unencumbered license expired between two and five years ago.
Remediation: If recommended with Board concurrence, complete a supervised practice plan, potentially up to 1,200 direct care hours at associate level, or up to 40 specified continuing education hours.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-403.1(5), reinstatement between two and five years
Utah Code Title 58
58-1-308(6)(a), current initial qualifications for late reinstatement
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Relicensure following revocation

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Board probation: The specific mental-health reinstatement rule permits Division-requested review and three- or five-year probationary conditions.
Competence and fees: Demonstrate present professional competence and pay the new-applicant fee.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Current qualifications: Meet current initial qualifications and reinstatement conditions; submit supporting documents.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Relicensure after voluntary surrender in good standing

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Applicable conditions: Current initial qualifications apply when the applicable reinstatement procedure requires them; early renewal-equivalent reinstatement and the statutory return-practice examination waiver remain available applicant conditions.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Surrender agreement: The written surrender agreement may govern reacquisition; otherwise use the applicable reinstatement procedures based on elapsed time and qualification status.

Relicensure after surrender while not in good standing

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Agreement: The written surrender agreement and applicable mental-health Board probation/review provisions remain conditions.
Competence and fees: Provide Division/Board evidence of current competence; pay the new-applicant fee and outstanding fines/citations.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Current qualifications: Supply the current initial-application qualifications and satisfy reinstatement conditions.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Biennial renewal

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board page difference: The DOPL renewal page adds 15 MFT-specific hours and describes 30 live/in-person and 10 self-study hours. The current rule permits its stated formats and limits; retain these page statements as applicant-facing instructions.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Grandfather education: A person licensed on May 1, 2000 may renew without satisfying the later educational requirements under 58-60-305.5(1).
Professional development: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Proration and waiver: Hours prorate with licensure timing; the rule permits limited carryover and Division deferral/waiver. Keep proof for two years after the cycle.
Renewal cycle: September 30 of even-numbered years for the MFT and AMFT classifications; apply and pay the appropriate renewal fee.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supervisor development: Approved clinical supervisors must complete six additional supervisor-specific hours under R156-60e-402.1(9).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(4)-(9), records, proration, waiver and supervisor development
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308c(5)-(6), complete renewal procedure
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-302.3(5), approved MFT examinations

Initial MFT issuance with restrictions or probation

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit the Division-approved application and applicable fee.
Application form guidance: The v20251211 DOPL application still asks for 3,000 supervised hours and older non-COAMFTE coursework/practicum details. The controlling statute and May 26, 2026 rule govern; applicants see these implementing requests as application conditions.
Background check: Consent to and complete the criminal background check and disclose requested criminal history under 58-60-305(1)(h).
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Conduct: Otherwise qualified initial applicant has relevant unlawful, unprofessional or other conduct; DOPL finds monitoring, supervised practice or restrictions needed to protect the public.
Direct client care: Complete at least 1,200 post-degree direct client care hours; at least 500 are therapy to couples, families or groups. Include at least 100 direct clinical supervision hours, at least 25 direct observation hours, and no more than 25 concurrent group supervision hours.
Education: Provide certified transcripts for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's or doctoral degree, or an accredited qualifying equivalent degree under R156-60e-302.3. Equivalent degrees require the enumerated coursework and a 400-hour practicum including 100 supervision and 300 practice hours, at least 150 in couple or family therapy.
Federal supervision: If federally required for CMS Medicare eligible-professional status, document at least 3,000 clinical supervision hours or at least two years of clinical supervision under 58-60-305(1)(d).
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Practice setting: Obtain supervised experience legally, after the degree, in a public agency or private clinic, while holding an active associate license or lawful equivalent; R156-60e-304.1 specifies applicable exceptions.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Review: Restricted/probationary issuance is partial denial subject to agency review.
Suicide prevention: Complete two hours of approved suicide prevention training after completing the qualifying degree.

Renewal with restrictions or probation

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Board page difference: The DOPL renewal page adds 15 MFT-specific hours and describes 30 live/in-person and 10 self-study hours. The current rule permits its stated formats and limits; retain these page statements as applicant-facing instructions.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Conduct: DOPL finds otherwise qualified renewal applicant requires monitoring, supervision or reasonable restrictions under 58-1-304.
Grandfather education: A person licensed on May 1, 2000 may renew without satisfying the later educational requirements under 58-60-305.5(1).
Professional development: For a master's degree or higher complete 40 hours each two-year cycle, including six hours in ethics/law/technology ethics and two in approved suicide prevention.
Proration and waiver: Hours prorate with licensure timing; the rule permits limited carryover and Division deferral/waiver. Keep proof for two years after the cycle.
Renewal cycle: September 30 of even-numbered years for the MFT and AMFT classifications; apply and pay the appropriate renewal fee.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Supervisor development: Approved clinical supervisors must complete six additional supervisor-specific hours under R156-60e-402.1(9).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-1-304, restricted or probationary issuance
Utah Code Title 58
58-60-104, term and renewal
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308c(5)-(6), complete renewal procedure

Reinstatement after qualifying continuous practice elsewhere or federal employment

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Application window: Apply within six months after returning to Utah domicile or terminating full-time government service.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Exam waiver: 58-1-308(6)(b) expressly permits this reinstatement without taking an examination.
Qualifying practice: Continuously active since Utah expiration in full-time United States government employment or licensed practice in another United States jurisdiction.
Renewal qualifications: Submit compliance with renewal qualifications and pay renewal and reinstatement fees.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-1-308(6)(b), reinstatement without examination after qualifying active practice
General Rule of the Division of Professional Licensing R156-1
R156-1-308g(3), late reinstatement or active-practice return
Mental Health Professional Practice Act Rule R156-60e
R156-60e-402.1(1), biennial ongoing professional development

Initial licensure by examination

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit the Division-approved application and applicable fee.
Application form guidance: The v20251211 DOPL application still asks for 3,000 supervised hours and older non-COAMFTE coursework/practicum details. The controlling statute and May 26, 2026 rule govern; applicants see these implementing requests as application conditions.
Background check: Consent to and complete the criminal background check and disclose requested criminal history under 58-60-305(1)(h).
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional initial, renewal or reinstatement issuance while an audit, investigation or inspection remains pending; final issuance or denial follows its completion.
Direct client care: Complete at least 1,200 post-degree direct client care hours; at least 500 are therapy to couples, families or groups. Include at least 100 direct clinical supervision hours, at least 25 direct observation hours, and no more than 25 concurrent group supervision hours.
Education: Provide certified transcripts for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's or doctoral degree, or an accredited qualifying equivalent degree under R156-60e-302.3. Equivalent degrees require the enumerated coursework and a 400-hour practicum including 100 supervision and 300 practice hours, at least 150 in couple or family therapy.
Federal supervision: If federally required for CMS Medicare eligible-professional status, document at least 3,000 clinical supervision hours or at least two years of clinical supervision under 58-60-305(1)(d).
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Practice setting: Obtain supervised experience legally, after the degree, in a public agency or private clinic, while holding an active associate license or lawful equivalent; R156-60e-304.1 specifies applicable exceptions.
Restricted or probationary status: 58-1-304 permits restrictions or probation for otherwise qualified applicants with relevant conduct, monitoring or supervision needs; restrictions do not change the underlying MFT classification or eliminate its exam requirements.
Suicide prevention: Complete two hours of approved suicide prevention training after completing the qualifying degree.

Initial licensure for out of state applicants not qualifying for endorsement

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Application: Submit the Division-approved application and applicable fee.
Application form guidance: The v20251211 DOPL application still asks for 3,000 supervised hours and older non-COAMFTE coursework/practicum details. The controlling statute and May 26, 2026 rule govern; applicants see these implementing requests as application conditions.
Background check: Consent to and complete the criminal background check and disclose requested criminal history under 58-60-305(1)(h).
Board page guidance: The DOPL out-of-state non-endorsement page asks for a passing national exam and 3,000 supervised hours; the statute also permits the failed-attempt pathway and makes the 3,000-hour CMS provision conditional.
Conditional status: R156-1-308f permits conditional issuance, renewal or reinstatement pending completion of an audit, investigation or inspection; underlying qualification requirements continue to govern.
Direct client care: Complete at least 1,200 post-degree direct client care hours; at least 500 are therapy to couples, families or groups. Include at least 100 direct clinical supervision hours, at least 25 direct observation hours, and no more than 25 concurrent group supervision hours.
Education: Provide certified transcripts for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT master's or doctoral degree, or an accredited qualifying equivalent degree under R156-60e-302.3. Equivalent degrees require the enumerated coursework and a 400-hour practicum including 100 supervision and 300 practice hours, at least 150 in couple or family therapy.
Federal supervision: If federally required for CMS Medicare eligible-professional status, document at least 3,000 clinical supervision hours or at least two years of clinical supervision under 58-60-305(1)(d).
Originating license: An applicant with out-of-state qualifications who does not qualify for endorsement must establish the Utah initial qualifications.
Other state exam alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Practice setting: Obtain supervised experience legally, after the degree, in a public agency or private clinic, while holding an active associate license or lawful equivalent; R156-60e-304.1 specifies applicable exceptions.
Restricted or probationary status: Under 58-1-304, DOPL may issue a restricted or probationary form of the same licensing classification to an otherwise qualified applicant where conduct, monitoring or supervision requires conditions. Individual restrictions are applicant conditions.
Suicide prevention: Complete two hours of approved suicide prevention training after completing the qualifying degree.

Temporary license

Temporary MFT authorization under Utah Code 58-1-303; applicant conditions determine pending-exam, teaching, emergency, shortage or monitored-practice issuance.

Licensing authority: Utah Division of Professional Licensing

Temporary MFT licensure: Emergency or unusual governmental circumstance

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Competition limit: Competitive advantage or disadvantage alone does not justify issuance without material public-health, safety or welfare risk.
Discretion: Requires DOPL findings in collaboration with the appropriate Board.
Issuance ground: DOPL and the Board find a local or national emergency or governmental action creates an unusual circumstance materially jeopardizing public health, safety or welfare without temporary authorization.
Prior license: Hold a license in another United States state whose requirements when issued equaled or exceeded Utah requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-1-303(1)(c), emergency, service shortage or monitored practice

Temporary MFT licensure: Monitored practice before a permanent license decision

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Competition limit: Competitive advantage or disadvantage alone does not justify issuance without material public-health, safety or welfare risk.
Discretion: Requires DOPL findings in collaboration with the appropriate Board.
Issuance ground: DOPL and the Board need to observe the applicant in monitored or supervised practice before granting or denying the regular license.
Prior license: Hold a license in another United States state whose requirements when issued equaled or exceeded Utah requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-1-303(1)(c), emergency, service shortage or monitored practice

Temporary MFT licensure pending the next available examination

At least one of the following alternatives:

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Expiration: The temporary license expires automatically on release of official results if the applicant fails.
Next exam: Take the next available approved MFT examination.
Other state alternative: R156-60e-302.3(5)(b) also accepts the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Clinical Examination by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This is recorded solely as a Utah-stated applicant alternative, not as a requirement leaf or as another state survey.
Qualification: Meet all MFT licensing requirements except passing the examination.
Repeat limit: No more than three consecutive temporary issuances during the three years after the first issuance.

Temporary MFT licensure: Community shortage of MFT services

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Competition limit: Competitive advantage or disadvantage alone does not justify issuance without material public-health, safety or welfare risk.
Discretion: Requires DOPL findings in collaboration with the appropriate Board.
Issuance ground: DOPL and the Board find a lack of necessary services in a community materially jeopardizes public health, safety or welfare.
Prior license: Hold a license in another United States state whose requirements when issued equaled or exceeded Utah requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-1-303(1)(c), emergency, service shortage or monitored practice

Temporary MFT licensure to teach or assist a Utah licensee

No examination is required for this applicant pathway.

Division discretion: DOPL may issue this temporary license under 58-1-303(1)(b).
Prior license: Hold a professional license in another state or country.
Temporary presence: Be temporarily in Utah to teach or assist a Utah-resident licensee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Utah Code Title 58
58-1-303(1)(b), temporary teaching or assistance

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

AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 15, blueprint table heading
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 14, "CONTENT OF THE EXAMINATION", item 2 (left column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 15, blueprint table, Domain 6 row
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 15, note below blueprint table
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 16, "CONTENT OUTLINE", Domain 01 heading (left column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 18, "CONTENT OUTLINE", task 06.15 (right column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 20, "KNOWLEDGE AREAS", item 75 (right column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 14, "CONTENT OF THE EXAMINATION", item 1 (left column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 14, "CONTENT OF THE EXAMINATION", item 1 continued (left column)
AMFTRB — Exam Reference: Detailed Overview of the Examination in Marital and Family Therapy
Exam Reference page, section "Test Content", second paragraph
AMFTRB — Exam Reference: Detailed Overview of the Examination in Marital and Family Therapy
Exam Reference page, section "Scoring", "Other Considerations"
AMFTRB — Exam Reference: Detailed Overview of the Examination in Marital and Family Therapy
Exam Reference page, section "Scoring", first paragraph
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 12, "SETTING A PASSING SCORE" continued (left column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 3, "A NOTE ABOUT STATE APPROVAL CODES"
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 5, "INITIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURE", Step 2 heading (left column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 1, "TESTING PERIODS" table, row for the 8/1/2026 deadline
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 4, "Choosing a Testing Period" (right column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 5, fee table, Examination Fee row
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 6, "EXAMINATION ADMINISTRATION AND SCHEDULING" (left column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 11, "SCORE REPORTS" (left column)
AMFTRB Handbook for Candidates for the AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination (2026 Edition), published by Professional Testing Corporation
Handbook p. 5, right column, retake limit