Short answer
It takes about 2 years after you register as an intern, because Florida requires supervision over at least 100 weeks. At 15 client hours a week, the 1,500 client hours also take about 2 years. Also plan for exam scheduling and license application processing.
Enter your own start date and weekly pace in the Florida licensure date calculator. The examples below start when the Board issues an intern registration and approves a qualified supervisor. Your degree, application review, exam scheduling, and license processing add time.
What Florida hours and weeks set the timeline?
The Florida Board requires 1,500 client psychotherapy hours, at least 100 supervision hours, and no fewer than 100 weeks for the post-master’s LMHC path. Rule 64B4-2.001, F.A.C., defines the two-year experience period. Your earliest finish is the latest date on which all three requirements are met.
How does your weekly client pace change the date?
This table assumes three weeks off each year and a steady client load during working weeks. It estimates calendar weeks, not a Board approval date.
| Client hours per working week | Calendar weeks to reach 1,500 hours | What sets the earliest finish |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | About 159 (3 years) | Client hours |
| 15 | About 106 (2 years) | Client hours |
| 20 | About 80 | 100-week minimum |
| 25 | About 64 | 100-week minimum |
At 20 or more client hours per week, more sessions do not shorten the 100-week minimum. You still need the required supervision hours and documentation.
How long does RMHCI registration last?
RMHCI registration lasts five years and cannot be renewed under section 491.0045, Florida Statutes. At three weeks off each year, about 6.1 client hours per working week would reach 1,500 hours within five years. That is only a math threshold. Cancellations, slow starts, missed supervision, and other requirements can push your finish later.
What happened on Gabriel’s path?
Gabriel registered near the end of 2023 and worked in a busy group practice. He finished client hours in about 65 weeks, then waited for the 100-week minimum. His pace shows why a full caseload cannot erase the time rule.
What happens after you finish the hours?
Allow time for the NCMHCE, final forms, and Board review. The length depends on exam availability and whether the Board needs more documents. Do not count an estimated application date as a license date.
Try the date calculator with your real supervision start date, weekly client hours, and planned time off.
Sources reviewed: Florida Board intern page; Rule 64B4-2.001; section 491.0045. Reviewed September 30, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Can I finish the post-master’s hours in one year?
You may reach 1,500 client hours in one year at a high weekly pace. Florida still requires no fewer than 100 weeks of experience. You also need the required supervision hours.
Does working 25 client hours a week shorten the 100 weeks?
No. The 100-week floor remains. A faster pace only helps you reach the client-hour target earlier.
When does my supervision time start counting?
It starts only after the Board issues your intern registration and approves your qualified supervisor. Check your record before counting sessions. Keep the required logs.
Can I renew a five-year RMHCI registration?
No. Section 491.0045 says the registration is valid for five years and cannot be renewed. Check the Board’s current options if your registration is nearing expiration.
Does the exam happen within the 100 weeks?
It may, depending on your eligibility and scheduling. The exam and final license review can also add time after your experience is complete. Check the Board’s current exam instructions.