TX HHS Form 3266. Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) License Application

The LCDC License Application (Form 3266) is the final step for registered counselor interns in Texas who are ready to advance to full licensure. This form confirms that an applicant has completed all training, supervised work experience, educational requirements, and examinations required by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) under 26 TAC Chapter 562 and Texas Occupations Code Chapter 504.

Below is an expanded, expert-level explanation designed to help applicants understand what every section means, how to prepare documents, and how to avoid common mistakes during submission.

Purpose of Form 3266

This form is required when a counselor intern is upgrading to a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor license. Texas law mandates LCDC licensure for individuals who provide chemical dependency counseling services, supervise treatment plans, or make clinical assessments related to addiction.

Submitting Form 3266 demonstrates that the applicant:

• Holds a valid counselor intern registration
• Has passed the Alcohol and Drug Counselor exam
• Completed all required supervised work hours or qualifies for a waiver
• Earned the required degree and coursework
• Is prepared to comply with ethical and legal standards

Section-by-Section Breakdown

Section 1 – Personal Information

This section identifies the applicant. HHSC uses this information for background checks, licensing records, and correspondence. Ensure that your full legal name matches your government ID and Social Security records. A mismatch here is one of the most common reasons processing is delayed.

• Phone and email — HHSC may contact you if documents are missing.
• Mailing address — Important for receiving physical notifications, if necessary.
• Name variations on transcripts — If your transcript uses a former name, list it clearly.

Section 2 – License Requirements

This section confirms eligibility for licensing. Applicants must provide supporting documentation proving they completed each requirement.

• TCB exam documentation — Include the letter showing your passing score.
• Two letters of recommendation — Must be written by current LCDCs, as required by 26 TAC §562.9(a)(7). Letters should describe your competence and professional conduct.
• Official college transcript — Associate degree or higher required. If sent directly by the school, note this on the form.

Supervised Work Experience (SWE)

Texas requires 4,000 hours of supervised work experience unless you qualify for a waiver based on advanced degrees. Your CTI coordinator or CCS must submit Form 3262 to HHSC, including your job description and confirmation of hours.

You may request a waiver only if you hold a graduate degree in a counseling-related field with at least 48 semester hours of graduate coursework.

Section 3 – Application and License Fee

The standard fee is $85 ($75 license fee + $10 surcharge for peer assistance programs). Fees are non-refundable.

Military service members, spouses, and veterans may be exempt under Texas Occupations Code §55.009 and must instead complete Form 3242.

Section 4 – Statement of Understanding

Applicants must initial statements confirming their understanding of legal responsibilities, including agreeing to a criminal history background check and adherence to professional ethical standards. Failing to read these requirements can lead to future compliance issues.

Section 5 – GovDelivery Updates

Although optional, signing up for GovDelivery ensures you receive updates on licensing requirements, rule changes, and deadlines.

Section 6 – Signature and Attestation

Your signature certifies that the information provided is accurate and that you understand the governing laws. Unsigned forms are automatically rejected.

Practical Filing Tips

• Type the form—handwritten forms process significantly slower.
• Submit all documents together unless your school mails transcripts separately.
• Check your supervised experience submission with your supervisor before filing.
• Make copies of all documents for your records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting without confirming that TCB exam documentation is attached.
• Providing recommendation letters written by non-LCDCs.
• Forgetting to initial items in the Statement of Understanding.
• Sending unofficial transcripts or screenshots of student portals.

Examples of Real-Life Situations Where Form 3266 Is Required

• A counselor intern completing 4,000 hours at a residential treatment center and ready to obtain a full license.
• A graduate student with a master’s degree in counseling applying for a supervised work experience waiver.
• An intern who recently passed the TCB exam and now needs to upgrade their status for employment at a licensed facility.
• A professional moving into a clinical supervisory role and needing full LCDC credentials.

Documents Commonly Attached

• TCB exam letter and score
• Two LCDC recommendation letters
• Official transcripts
• Supervised work documentation (Form 3262)
• Legal name change documents (if applicable)

FAQ

• Do I need a counselor intern registration before applying? Yes. A current registration is mandatory.
• Can my school email the transcript directly? Yes, HHSC accepts official electronic transcripts.
• What if my supervised hours have not yet been processed? You may still apply, but HHSC will not issue a license until hours are confirmed.
• Are fees refundable? No, all fees are non-refundable.
• Can I qualify for a waiver without a graduate degree? No. Only advanced degrees in approved fields qualify.
• Who can write the recommendation letters? Only licensed LCDCs.

Micro-FAQ (Short Answers)

• Purpose? To upgrade from intern to Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor.
• Who files? Registered counselor interns in Texas.
• Deadline? No formal deadline; submit when all requirements are complete.
• Attachments? Transcript, exam proof, recommendation letters, SWE documentation.
• Submitted to? HHSC Accounts Receivable, Austin, Texas.
• Fee? $85 unless military exemption applies.
• Exam required? Yes, ADC exam through TCB.
• Hours required? 4,000 unless waived via master's/doctoral degree.

Related Forms

• Form 3262 — LCDC Supervised Work Experience
• Form 3242 — Military Supplemental Application
• Form 3248 — Counselor Intern Registration
• Texas TCB Exam Application Documents

Form Details

• Form name: Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor License Application
• Form number: 3266
• Region: Texas
• Date: July 2025 edition
• Agency: Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Mail your completed application to HHSC Accounts Receivable, P.O. Box 149055, Austin, TX 78714-9055. For questions, email: [email protected].