LCPC (license) - This license requires two exams. The NCE - National Counselor Exam and the
NCMHCE -National Clinical Mental Health
Counselor Exam.
If you have already taken the NCE to become a LPC you do not need to retake it. You do not need to become a LPC to become a LCPC. You can wait until you have the prerequisite experience and then apply and take both exam the NCE and the NCMHCE exams.
If you are a CRC there are exceptions to the testing and degree requirements.
If you do not pass the exam? From NCE Candidate Handbook Candidates may take the examination once every three months. The candidate must reregister by submitting a new NBCC Examination Registration Form with the appropriate fee.