Social Work Licensure by State

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Written by Kasia Kovacs

Last Updated: April 2023

Social workers fulfill a key role in our society by providing aid and resources to people and communities.

To become a social worker you need a license, but licensure requirements vary by state. This guide breaks down social work licenses by state, including education, experience, and renewal requirements.

Social Work Licensure State-by-State Requirements

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Alabama Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Alabama State Board of Social Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LICSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To practice as a LBSW, candidates need at least four supervised hours per month for 24 months of supervision. To practice as an LICSW, candidates must complete at least 24 months of supervised practice in addition to four supervised hours per month. You must complete all of these requirements within 36 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers must complete 30 continuing education hours every two years, including two hours relating to ethics. Additionally, LICSWs need three hours in clinical social work education and three hours in supervision education if they oversee other social workers’ supervision hours.

License Renewal Information: Alabama social workers must renew their licenses every two years. The application costs $100.

Alaska Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Alaska State Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify as a LCSW, candidates must complete 3,000 hours of clinical social work experience. This must be supervised by a licensed social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist. These candidates must also participate in 100 hours of direct supervision and a maximum 50 hours in group supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers should enroll in 45 continuing education hours every two years. That includes at least:

  • Three hours in professional ethics
  • Six hours in substance abuse
  • Six hours in cross-cultural education relating to Alaska Natives

License Renewal Information: Social workers must renew their license every two years. It costs:

  • LBSW: $225 for licenses issued on or before June 30, 2021; $112.50 for licenses issued on or after July 1, 2021
  • LMSW: $275 for licenses issued on or before June 30, 2021; $137.50 for licenses issued on or after July 1, 2021
  • LCSW: $325 for licenses issued on or before June 30, 2021; $162.50 for licenses issued on or after July 1, 2021

Arizona Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify for an LCSW license, candidates must complete 3,200 hours of supervised postgraduate experience. No more than 1,600 of those hours should be through direct client contact, with a maximum of 400 hours in psychoeducation. Candidates must also complete at least 100 hours of clinical supervision as prescribed by board rule.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must complete at least 30 continuing education hours to renew their license every two years. That includes at least three hours of behavioral health ethics/mental health law and three hours of cultural competency.

License Renewal Information: Social workers must pay $325 to renew their license.

Arkansas Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Arkansas Social Work Licensing Board

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: When working toward their LCSW qualification, social workers must complete at least 4,000 supervised hours over 24 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: Arkansas social workers must complete 30 continuing education credits every two years to renew their license.

License Renewal Information: The cost to renew a social work license in Arkansas comes to $80 every two years.

California Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: California Board of Behavioral Sciences

Types of Licenses: Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • ASCW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals with an ACSW license need 3,000 total supervised hours over a minimum of 104 weeks to earn their LCSW license. This includes 2,000 hours of clinical and 1,000 of non-clinical work.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers must complete at least 36 hours of continuing education credits, including at least six hours in law and ethics. Before the first renewal cycle, social workers only need 18 hours of continuing education credits.

License Renewal Information: California requires social workers to pay $220 to renew their license.

Colorado Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Provisional Licensed Social Worker (SWP)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work
  • SWP: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Becoming a LCSW requires at least 3,360 hours of supervised work experience over 24 months. This includes at least 1,680 hours of professional work that involves treatment, diagnosis, testing, assessment, or counseling.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers need at least 40 professional development hours to renew their license in odd-numbered years.

License Renewal Information: Licensed social workers must pay $67 to renew their license.

Connecticut Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Connecticut State Department of Public Health

Types of Licenses: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To become a licensed clinical social worker, candidates must carry out 3,000 hours of post-master’s social worker experience, including at least 100 hours of experience under professional supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Connecticut requires social workers to complete at least 15 hours of continuing education hours each year, including one hour of training on cultural competency.

License Renewal Information: Social workers must pay $195 as part of their renewal application fee.

Delaware Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Delaware Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: The state board requires social workers to complete at least 1,600 hours of work under professional supervision of a licensed social worker, psychologist, or psychiatrist to qualify for LCSW licensure.

Continuing Education Requirements: Continuing education requirements vary for each license.

  • LBSW: 20 hours
  • LMSW: 30 hours
  • LCSW: 40 hours
At all levels, continuing education hours must include:
  • At least six hours of professional ethics
  • At least one hour in mandatory reporting
  • No more than 10 hours from self-directed activity

License Renewal Information: All social workers must renew their licenses in January of odd-numbered years. The board notifies social workers of the renewal fee at the time of renewal.

Florida Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling

Types of Licenses: Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • CMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Certified master social workers must complete three years of experience in social work, including two years of supervised work at the post-master’s level. To qualify for the LCSW license, candidates should engage in at least two years of supervised clinical experience. That includes at least 1,500 hours of psychotherapy face-to-face with clients, and one hour of supervision every two weeks.

Continuing education requirements: Florida social workers should enroll in 30 hours of continuing education to maintain their license. For licensed clinical social workers, this includes:

  • Two hours of medical errors training
  • Three hours on ethics and boundaries or telehealth
  • Three hours on laws and rules
  • Two hours on domestic violence
  • Four hours on qualified supervisor training
Certified master social workers must also complete 30 hours of continuing education, including:
  • Two hours of medical errors training
  • Three hours on ethics and boundaries
  • Three hours on laws and rules
  • Two hours on domestic violence

License Renewal Information: Licensed clinical social workers must pay $120 to renew their license, whereas certified master social workers owe $155.

Georgia Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists

Types of Licenses: Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Master’s social workers should carry out their first two years of practice under direction and supervision. For clinical social workers, the state requires them to work for a minimum of 3,000 hours in post-master’s supervised experience over the course of 3-9 years. The first 2,000 hours must be under supervision and direction in the practice of clinical social work.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers carry out 35 hours of continuing education credits every two years, including at least five relating to professional ethics.

License Renewal Information: It costs $110 to renew social work licenses in Georgia every two years.

Hawaii Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional and Vocational Licensing Division

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers only need to complete supervised experience at the LCSW level. They must undertake at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work in an agency setting in 2-5 years. These hours should include:

  • A minimum of 2,000 hours of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy
  • A maximum of 900 hours of client-centered advocacy, consultation, and evaluation
  • A minimum of 100 hours of direct face-to-face supervision

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers at all three levels must complete 45 continuing education hours, including three hours of ethics courses.

License Renewal Information: Social workers must renew their license every three years. The cost to renew depends on the type of license.

  • LBSW: $177
  • LSW: $222
  • LCSW: $270

Idaho Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Idaho Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: In general, social workers must complete at least 100 supervised hours of face-to-face contact with the supervisor. For social workers who wish to pursue licensure as independent practitioners, they must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised social work experience in 2-5 years.

Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years, social workers should enroll in 20 continuing education hours, including one hour of ethics education.

License Renewal Information: Licensed clinical social workers must pay $90 to renew; all other social workers owe $80 to renew.

Illinois Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: For the LCSW qualification, candidates with master’s degrees must complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience. Those with a doctorate in social work only need to undertake 2,000 hours of supervised work.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must take on 30 hours of continuing education every two years. This should include three hours related to ethical practice and three hours covering cultural competence.

License Renewal Information: Social workers in Illinois must renew their license every two years. The cost to renew is $60.

Indiana Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Indiana Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals who wish to earn the LCSW credential must undergo two years of full-time supervised clinical social work after earning their master’s degree, which amounts to 3,000 hours in total. Additionally, candidates should show proof they completed at least four hours of face-to-face supervision each month.

Continuing Education Requirements: In Indiana, one renewal cycle lasts two years. Social workers must complete at least 40 hours of continuing education credits for each renewal cycle, or 20 credits each year. This should include 20 hours of Category 1 training — workshops, seminars courses —each renewal cycle. Professionals must also complete two hours of ethics per renewal cycle.

License Renewal Information: The fee to renew a professional social work license every two years in Indiana is $50.

Iowa Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Iowa Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LISW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers pursuing the LISW qualification must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical practice, including 1,500 hours of direct client contact. They should also take into account at least 110 hours of direct supervision, including at least 24 hours of direct observation of client interaction.

Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years, social workers in Iowa must complete 27 hours of continuing education credits to maintain their licensure.

License Renewal Information: Fees vary for each level of social worker:

  • LBSW: $72
  • LMSW: $120
  • LISW: $144

Kansas Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Kansas Behavioral Science Regulatory Board

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LSCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: LSCSW candidates must have completed at least two years of postgraduate supervised professional experience totalling 3,000 hours. That includes 1,500 hours of direct client contact conducting psychotherapy to clients, in addition to at least 100 hours of face-to-face clinical supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers at every level in Kansas must participate in 40 hours of continuing education during each renewal period. In addition:

  • LMSWs and LSCSWs must include at least six hours on the assessment and treatment of mental disorders
  • All new social workers must complete at least six hours of training in safety awareness for their first renewal cycle

License Renewal Information: All social workers pay a maximum of $150 to renew their license.

Kentucky Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Kentucky Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • CSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers pursuing LCSW licensure should undertake supervised clinical experience. They can do so full time, participating in at least two years of experience at least 30 hours per week. Or they can complete these requirements part-time over three years, engaging in 20 hours per week.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in Kentucky renew their license every three years. Licensed social workers must complete 15 continuing education hours during the renewal period. Certified social workers and licensed clinical social workers must take on at least 30 hours of continuing education during that three-year period.Additionally, licensed clinical social workers who supervise others should complete a three-hour clinical social work supervision course. Every six years, all social workers must enroll in at least six hours of continuing education in a training program in suicide assessment, treatment, and management.

License Renewal Information: The fees for renewal vary, depending on the type of license:

  • LSW: $75
  • CSW: $125
  • LSCW: $200

Louisiana Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Registered Social Worker (RSW); Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • RSW: Bachelor of social work
  • CSW: Master of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To obtain the LCSW qualification, social workers should complete 3,000 hours of postgraduate social work supervised experience, including 96 face-to-face supervision hours.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in Louisiana should participate in 20 hours of continuing education each year. Specific requirements include:

  • Three hours in the area of social work ethics every two years, for all social workers
  • 10 hours in the area of clinical social work for LCSWs
  • Three hours in the area of clinical supervision for LCSWs who supervise others

License Renewal Information: The fees for renewing social work licensure vary:

  • RSW: $25
  • LMSW: $50
  • LCSW: $75

Maine Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Maine State Board of Social Worker Licensure

Types of Licenses: Conditional Licensed Social Worker (LSW-C); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Master Social Worker – Clinical Conditional (LMSW – CC); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW-C: Bachelor of social work
  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LMSW-CC: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify for a LCSW credential, candidates can fulfill two options for supervised work:

  • Candidates with a graduate degree in a clinical concentration must complete two years of social work experience with 96 hours of consultation in a clinical setting
  • Candidates with a graduate degree with a non-clinical consultation should have completed four years of social work experience with 192 hours of consultation in a clinical setting

Continuing Education Requirement: All social workers should take part in 25 continuing education hours for renewal every two years. Those with the LSW-C qualification should participate in at least six hours of social work ethics and at least six relating to psychosocial assessment. All other social workers must complete at least four hours of social work ethics education.

License Renewal Information: License renewal fees cost $70 in Maine.

Maryland Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker – Clinical (LCSW-C)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW-C: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: The board requires individuals pursuing a LCSW qualification to engage in two years, or at least 3,000 hours, of supervised social work experience. They must complete this in 2-6 years. For the LCSW-C qualification, at least 1,500 of those hours should occur with face-to-face contact. Candidates should also participate in 100 hours of direct supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Most social workers must complete 40 continuing education credits every two years; LBSWs need only 30 credits. All social workers in Maryland should enroll in at least three credits of ethics-related continuing education.

License Renewal Information: Fees for renewal of social work licensure are:

  • LBSW: $100
  • LMSW: $200
  • LCSW: $275
  • LCSW-C: $275

Massachusetts Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Massachusetts Board of Registration of Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker Associate (LSWA); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSWA: An associate degree — or at least 60 credits of college education —in the fields of social work, psychology, or counseling; a bachelor’s degree in any field; at least 1,000 hours of education in social work theory and methods in courses and programs approved by the board
  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work
  • LICSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Licensed social workers should participate in at least 3500 hours of work supervised experience for at least two years. Candidates for the LICSW qualification must engage in 3500 hours of clinical social work services for at least two years after being licensed as a LCSW.

Continuing Education Requirements: The board sets different continuing education hours for each qualification, which social workers must complete every two years:

  • LSWA: 10 continuing education hours
  • LSW: 15 hours
  • LCSW: 20 hours
  • LICSW: 30 hours

License Renewal Information: The fees for license renewal in Massachusetts vary:

  • LSWA: $42
  • LSW: $54
  • LCSW: $68
  • LICSW: $82

Michigan Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Michigan Board of Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Registered Social Service Technician (RSST); Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW)

Education Requirements:

  • RSST: Associate degree in social work
  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Both LBSW and LMSW candidates must complete 4,000 hours of supervised experience after completing their degrees.

Continuing Education Requirements: LBSWs and LMSWs should participate in 45 hours of continuing education every three years to renew their license. This includes five hours of ethics-related courses and two hours of courses relating to pain management.

License Renewal Information: Social workers across all levels must pay $81 to renew their license in Michigan.

Minnesota Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Minnesota Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LGSW: Master of social work
  • LISW: Master of social work
  • LICSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Most social workers must participate in supervised practice.

  • For LSWs and LGSWs in non-clinical practice, this involves a one-time requirement of 100 hours of supervision for the first 4,000 hours of practice
  • For LGSWs and LISWs, supervised practice is required until they earn the LICSW qualification. This includes 200 hours of supervision over 4,000 to 8,000 hours of practice. Out of those hours, at least 1,800 must be direct clinical client contact.
  • LISWs in non-clinical practice and LICSWs do not need to undertake supervised practice.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers should complete 40 continuing education hours, with the following specifications:

  • Two hours in social work ethics
  • Four hours in cultural responsiveness
  • 12 hours in clinical content for LICSWs
  • Six hours of supervision content for licensing supervisors

License Renewal Information: Social workers in Minnesota need to renew their license every two years. The fees for renewal depend on the type of license:

  • LSW: $110
  • LGSW: $195
  • LISW: $295
  • LICSW: $325

Mississippi Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers pursuing the LCSW qualification should engage in two years of supervised practice. They must participate in at least 1,000 hours in direct client contact, completing the whole process in 2-3 years.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must enroll in 40 hours of continuing education. Specifications include:

  • Four ethics hours
  • Two cultural diversity hours
  • One mandated reporting hour

License Renewal Information: LSWs must pay $75 to renew their license. LMSWs and LCSWs should pay $110 to renew.

Missouri Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Missouri Division of Professional Registration Committee for Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work
  • LAMSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: LCSW and LAMSW candidates must dedicate 3,000 hours to supervised experience in 24-48 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers of all qualifications in Missouri should engage in 30 continuing education hours. That includes three hours of ethics, two hours of suicide prevention, and three hours related to diversity and inclusion.

License Renewal Information: All social workers must pay $65 to renew their license every two years.

Montana Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Montana Board of Behavioral Health

Types of Licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Candidates need 3,000 hours of supervised experience in 24 months after graduating. At least half of those hours should have included direct client contact.

Continuing Education Requirements: LCSWs in Montana should complete 20 hours of continuing education credit annually to renew their license. At least two of these hours should relate to suicide prevention.

License Renewal Information: Licensed clinical social workers owe $149 at the time of renewal.

Nebraska Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Certified Master Social Worker (CSMW); Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP); Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP)

Education Requirements:

  • CSW: Bachelor of social work
  • CSMW: Master of social work
  • LMHP: Master of social work
  • LIMHP: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To use the title of licensed clinical social worker in Nebraska, individuals need to hold both an LMHP and CSMW license. Both qualifications involved supervised work experience.CMSW candidates must carry out 3,000 hours of supervised social work experience under a provisional certificate. To qualify for the LMHP and LIMHP credentials, candidates should also fulfill 3,000 hours of supervised mental health supervised experience.

Continuing Education Requirements: The renewal period for licensure in Nebraska lasts two years. During this time, licensees and certificate holders need 32 hours of continuing education, including four hours relating to ethics. LIMHPs should also enroll in at least six hours relating to diagnosis and treatment of major mental disorders.

License Renewal Information: The cost to renew a license depends on the type of credential:

  • CSW: $125
  • CSMW without LMHP or LIMPH: $125
  • CMSW with LMHP or LIMPH: $50

Nevada Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LISW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify for both LISW and LCSW licensure, candidates must participate in 3,000 hours of supervised work after obtaining their graduate degree. They can gain this experience through an internship, to which they should dedicate at least two years.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in Nevada must fulfill their continuing education requirements every two years.

  • LSWs and LMSWs enroll in 30 hours of continuing education, including two hours of suicide prevention, two hours of cultural competency, and four hours relating to ethics
  • LCSWs and LISWs complete 36 continuing education credits. That consists of two hours of suicide prevention, two hours of cultural competency, and four hours relating to ethics

License Renewal Information: Renewal costs vary, depending on the level of license:

  • LSW and LMSW: $125
  • LCSW and LISW: $187.50

New Hampshire Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice

Types of Licenses: Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: These licensed social workers carry out 3,00 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical experience over the course of two years. They should also engage in 100 hours of supervision, or one hour per week of individual face-to-face sessions.

Continuing Education Requirements: To renew their license, social workers in New Hampshire must complete 40 hours of continuing education credit and 40 hours of collaboration.

License Renewal Information: LICSWs owe the board $298 to renew an active license every two years.

New Jersey Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: New Jersey Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • CSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Aspiring clinical social workers in New Jersey must engage in 3,000 hours of direct supervision in 2-4 years after graduation. A minimum of 1,920 hours should involve face-to-face client contact, and half of those 1,920 hours must involve psychotherapeutic counseling.

Continuing Education Requirements: All New Jersey social workers complete continuing education hours every two years to renew their license. All social workers must enroll in five hours in ethics, three hours in social and cultural competence, and one hour in prescription opioid drugs. The total number of hours varies for each type of social worker:

  • CSW: 20 hours
  • LSW: 30 hours
  • LCSW: 40 hours, including 20 credits directly related to clinical practice

License Renewal Information: Renewal fees have been waived for the 2023 fiscal year. However, normally these fees are:

  • CSW: $70
  • LSW: $120
  • LCSW: $160

New Mexico Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: New Mexico Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

Education Requirements:

  • BSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LISW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To become a licensed independent social worker, candidates need at least 3,600 hours of supervised work experience and 90 hours of supervision completed in 2-5 years after graduating with a master’s degree. Candidates must document one hour of supervision for every 40 hours worked.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must enroll in 30 continuing education hours. At least six of these hours should relate to cultural awareness.

License Renewal Information: Renewal fees depend on licensure level:

  • BSW: $100
  • LMSW: $150
  • LISW: $200

New York Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: New York State Office of the Professions

Types of Licenses: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Those aiming to pursue LCSW licensure must have at least three years of full-time supervised post-master’s clinical social work experience. For those working part time, the supervised experience should not exceed six years.

Continuing Education Requirements: Both LCSWs and LMSWs must enroll in at least 36 hours of continuing education credit every three years to renew their credentials.

License Renewal Information: The license renewal process for New York social workers costs $179.

North Carolina Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Certified Social Work Manager (CSWM)

Education Requirements:

  • CSW: Bachelor of social work
  • CMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work
  • CSWM: Bachelor or master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals working toward their LCSW qualification must engage in at least two years of post-graduation clinical work and a minimum of 100 supervision hours. Candidates should carry out at least one hour of supervision for every 30 hours of practice; they can complete up to 25 of these hours in a group setting.CSWM candidates should participate in at least 100 hours of supervision regularly, which includes up to 50 hours of group supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must complete continuing education to renew their license every two years. Specifically, they need 40 hours of credit, including four hours in ethics.

License Renewal Information: Fees for renewal vary, depending on the level of licensure:

  • CSW: $70
  • CMSW: $90
  • LCSW: $150
  • CSWM: $150

North Dakota Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: North Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Aspiring clinical social workers in North Dakota should have 3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work practice. They should complete these hours in a maximum of four years after graduating with a master’s degree.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in South Dakota need at least 30 credits of continuing education every two years to keep their license active, including at least two credits in ethics.

License Renewal Information: All licensed social workers must pay $75 to renew their license.

Ohio Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW); Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervision (LISW-S)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LISW: Master of social work
  • LISW-S: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To earn designation as a LISW, candidates must complete two full years and 3,000 hours of supervised work experience. Aspiring LISWs must complete one hour of individual or group supervision for every 20 hours of supervised work or 150 hours of supervision total.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers should accrue 30 hours of continuing education every two years. That requirement includes three hours relating to social work ethics.

License Renewal Information: Renewal for LSWs costs $83.50; renewal for LISWs costs $103.50.

Oklahoma Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Oklahoma State Board of Licensed Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Social Worker with Administrative Specialty (LSW-ADM); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSWA: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LSW: Master of social work
  • LSW-ADM: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals who pursue qualifications as an LSW or LCSW must take part in supervised work experience. This process involves 4,000 hours of supervised experience and 100 hours of direct supervision. LCSWs should also have at least 3,000 hours of direct contact with clients as part of their supervised work.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers enroll in at least 16 hours of continuing education each two-year renewal period to maintain their license.

License Renewal Information: Licensees pay $100 every 24 months to renew their social work credentials.

Oregon Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Registered Baccalaureate Social Worker (RBSW); Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • RBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: The LCSW designation in Oregon requires candidates to complete 3,500 hours of supervised postgraduate experience, including 2,000 hours directly working with clients. LCSW candidates should also participate in 100 hours of supervision, with up to 50 hours of group supervision. Candidates must complete these requirements in two years.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must enroll in continuing education every two years to maintain their license. The specifications, however, vary:

  • RBSW: 20 continuing education credits in total, including three ethics credits, three cultural competency credits, and two credits covering suicide risk, assessment, treatment and management
  • LMSW: 30 continuing education credits in total, including four ethics credits, four cultural competency credits, and two credits covering suicide risk, assessment, treatment and management
  • LCSW: 40 continuing education credits in total, including six ethics credits, six cultural competency credits, and two credits covering suicide risk, assessment, treatment and management

License Renewal Information: Fees for renewal depend on many factors, including whether a licensee has an active, semi-retired, or inactive status. For social workers who hold active licensure, the fees for renewal cost:

  • RBSW: $110
  • LMSW: $220
  • LCSW: $286

Pennsylvania Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers aiming for their LCSW credential must complete 3,000 hours of supervised work experience. Additionally, they should complete at least two hours of supervision for every 40 hours of supervised work experience. They can complete up to half of the required supervision hours in a group setting.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers at every level in Pennsylvania must complete 30 clock hours of continuing education every 24 months. This should consist of at least three hours related to ethical issues and two hours covering child abuse recognition and reporting.

License Renewal Information: The renewal fee for all social workers in Pennsylvania, regardless of license, costs $95.

Rhode Island Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Rhode Island Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LCSW: Master of social work
  • LICSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: LICSW candidates must engage in 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised practice, including 1,500 hours of direct clinical work with clients. These candidates should also participate in at least one hour of supervision for every 20 hours of client contact. To qualify for LICSW licensure, candidates should complete this process in 2-6 years.

Continuing Education Requirements: In Rhode Island, licensed social workers should take 30 continuing education credit hours every two years to maintain their license. At least three of these hours should pertain to ethics and three should relate to cross-cultural practice.

License Renewal Information: The fee to renew a social work license costs $70.

South Carolina Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker – Clinical Practice (LISW-CP); Licensed Independent Social Worker – Advanced Practice (LISW-AP)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LISW-CP: Master of social work
  • LISW-AP: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To apply for LISW licensure, candidates should complete 3,000 hours of practice under clinical supervision within 2-4 years of graduation. They should also participate in at least 100 hours of direct clinical supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers in South Carolina must enroll in 40 continuing education hours every two years to maintain licensure.

License Renewal Information: The renewal fee for all active licensure costs $90 for all social workers in South Carolina.

South Dakota Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Social Work Associate (SWA); Social Worker (SW); Certified Social Worker (CSW); Certified Social Worker in Private or Independent Practice (CSW-PIP)

Education Requirements:

  • SWA: Bachelor of social work
  • SW: Bachelor of social work
  • CSW: Master of social work
  • CSW-PIP: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers must complete either two years of full-time or four-years of part-time supervised experience to qualify for the CSW-PIP license. During that time, they should also engage in four contact hours of direct supervision each month.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers in South Dakota should complete 30 continuing education hours over the two-year renewal period.

License Renewal Information: The cost for renewal depends on the level of licensure:

  • SWA: $90
  • SW: $130
  • CSW: $170
  • CSW-PIP: $210

Tennessee Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Tennessee Board of Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Advanced Practitioner Social Worker (LAPSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LAPSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Both LAPSW and LCSW candidates must complete 3,000 hours of supervised work experience within 2-8 years. They should participate in 100 hours of direct supervisor contact, with one supervision hour to every 30 practical work experience hours. Candidates can participate in a maximum of 40 hours of group supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Tennessee sets specific continuing education requirements for each licensure level every calendar year:

  • LBSW: Nine continuing education hours, including three in professional ethics and four in social work
  • LMSW: 12 continuing education hours, including three in professional ethics and seven in social work
  • LAPSW and LCSW: 15 continuing education hours, including three in professional ethics and 10 in social work

License Renewal Information: The biennial cost to renew social work fees depends on the type of license:

  • LBSW: $45
  • LMSW, LAPSW, and LCSW: $95

Texas Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Master Social Worker – Advanced Practitioner (LMSW-AP); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Independent Practice Recognition (IPR)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LMSW-AP: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals pursuing either the LMSW-AP or LCSW credentials must gain supervised work experience to qualify for licensure. They should complete 3,000 of supervised work and 100 hours of direct supervision over 24-40 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: Licensed social workers in Texas should complete at least 30 hours of continuing education credits every two years. Those hours should include six hours in professional ethics and three hours in cultural diversity and competency.

License Renewal Information: The fee for renewal varies:

  • LBSW and LMSW: $141
  • LMSW-AP and LCSW: $163

Utah Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Utah Division of Professional Licensing

Types of Licenses: Social Service Worker (SSW); Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • SSW: Bachelor of social work, or a bachelor’s degree in another area
  • CSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: For individuals with a bachelor’s degree not related to social work, the board requires 2,000 hours of supervised social work experience. LCSW candidates should also complete 4,000 hours of supervised clinical social work. At least 1,000 of those hours should relate to mental health therapy.

Continuing Education Requirements: The licensure renewal period lasts two years. During this time, social workers must complete continuing education hours. The specific requirements depend on the level of licensure:

  • SSW/CSW: 20 hours, including six hours in professional ethics, law, or technology, and two hours in suicide prevention
  • LCSW: 40 hours, including six hours of professional ethics, law, or technology, and two hours in suicide prevention

License Renewal Information: Social workers need to pay a fee to renew their license every two years:

  • SSW: $78
  • CSW/LCSW: $93

Vermont Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Vermont Office of Professional Regulation

Types of Licenses: Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LICSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: For social workers to qualify as LICSWs in Vermont, candidates should complete 3,000 hours of supervised practice, including 2,000 direct service hours in psychotherapy. Candidates must also participate in at least one hour of face-to-face supervision for every 30 hours of supervised practice.

Continuing Education Requirements: The license renewal period for social workers in Vermont lasts two years. During this time, LMSWs need 10 hours and LICSWs need 20 hours for their continuing education requirements. For both licenses, at least 1.5 hours should relate to ethics of social work practice.

License Renewal Information: Social workers in Vermont must pay $150 every two years to renew their license.

Virginia Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Virginia Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LBSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LMSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: LCSWs must complete 3,000 hours of post-master’s degree work experience, including 1,380 hours of face-to-face clinical contact with clients. They should also meet with their supervisors 1-4 per week for a total of 100 hours. The state requires LCSW candidates to complete these obligations in 2-4 years.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in Virginia must renew their qualifications every two years to maintain licensure. The renewal process involves enrolling in the following continuing education credits:

  • LBSW/LMSW: 15 hours, with at least three hours pertaining to ethics and standards of practice
  • LCSW: 30 hours, with at least six hours pertaining to ethics and standards of practice

License Renewal Information: Fees for renewal differ, depending on the license:

  • LBSW: $55
  • LMSW: $65
  • LCSW: $90

Washington Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Washington State Department of Health

Types of Licenses: Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LASW: Master of social work
  • LICSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Washington state requires both LASWs and LAWs to complete supervised experience for full licensure.

  • Licensed advanced social workers should complete at least 3,200 hours of surprised work experience, including 800 hours of direct client contact. They should also fulfill 90 hours of direct supervision, including 50 hours with a licensed social worker and 40 hours with a licensed mental health practitioner.
  • Independent clinical social workers must complete 4,000 hours of supervised work experience over at least three years. This must include 1,000 hours of direct client contact and 130 hours of direct supervision with a LICSW and a licensed mental health practitioner.

Continuing Education Requirements: Each year social workers in Washington must complete 18 hours of continuing education. These 18 hours should include six hours of suicide assessment and treatment and six hours of professional ethics and law.

License Renewal Information: All social workers in Washington must pay $116 to renew their license every year.

West Virginia Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: West Virginia Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements:

  • LSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LGSW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work
  • LICSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Only LAWs in West Virginia must complete supervised work experience to gain full licensure. Requirements include 3,000 hours of supervised practice and 100 hours of face-to-face supervision. Candidates can complete up to half of these direct supervision hours in a group setting.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must engage in 30 continuing education hours during each two-year license renewal period. At least two of these hours should pertain to mental health conditions of veterans and their families.

License Renewal Information: For all licensees, the fee to renew their state credentials every two years costs $76.

Wisconsin Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker (CAPSW); Certified Independent Social Worker (CISW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • CSW: Bachelor of social work
  • CAPSW: Master of social work
  • CISW: Master of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: Aspiring LCSWs must fulfill 3,000 hours of supervised social work experience, including 1,000 hours of face-to-face client contact. CISWs must also complete 3,000 hours of supervised social work practice to qualify for licensure.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers at all levels should engage in at least 30 hours of continuing education every two years. At least four of these hours should relate to ethics and professional boundaries.

License Renewal Information: All social workers in Wisconsin must pay $60 to renew their license.

Wyoming Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements:

  • CSW: Bachelor of social work
  • LCSW: Master of social work

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Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify for the LCSW credential, candidates need 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience and at least 100 hours of face-to-face individual clinical supervision. Within the 3,000 hours of supervised work experience, LCSW candidates should complete 1,200 direct client contact hours. The board requires that candidates complete these requirements in 18-36 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers should enroll in at least 45 continuing education credits during the two-year renewal period. The board also requires that these hours include:

  • Three hours related to professional ethics
  • Three hours related to suicide assessment and intervention

License Renewal Information: In Wyoming, certified social workers must pay $100 to renew their license without a background check. LCSWs must pay $125 to renew.

Types of Social Work Licenses

You can obtain several social worker licenses. Licensed social worker definitions and requirements also vary by state. Which one you pursue depends on yourdepends on your location, degree, and career trajectory.

Each social work license qualifies you for different jobs within the field. For example, a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed master social worker have different career options — LCSWs can run a private practice and diagnose mental health conditions while LMSWs cannot.

Licensed Baccalaureate of Social Work (LBSW)

A licensed baccalaureate of social work certification is the first step toward becoming a practicing social worker. LBSWs work in supervised clinical and nonclinical settings but cannot provide clinical services.

To get an LBSW, you must earn a bachelor’s social work degree from an accredited program, pass the ASWB exam, and fulfill your state’s requirements. All states require supervised practice prior to earning an LBSW, typically between 2,000-4,000 hours.

Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW)

Earning your MSW license allows you to practice as a non-clinical social worker. LMSW allows you to become a social worker in most states, and it’s often a step toward clinical practice. LMSWs may provide case management in social service agencies or work in policy or community development.

Getting an LMSW license requires up to 4,000 hours of generalized social work practice following graduation from an accredited master’s social work program. Candidates must apply for licensure in their state and meet all state requirements, including passing the ASWB exam.

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)

The LGSW license allows master’s or doctoral graduates to practice social work in a couple of states. Licensed graduate social workers can provide clinical social work services but only under supervision of a clinical social worker.

LGSWs may choose to teach social work education at both the community college level. For some professionals, this license can help prepare them for jobs as independent clinical social workers later in their careers. To become LGSWs, candidates need an accredited graduate degree in social work and pass the ASWB master’s exam.

Licensed Master Social Worker – Advanced Generalist (LMSW – AG)

The LMSW – AG license is the most highly regarded nonclinical license. It demonstrates advanced experience in nonclinical, macro social work. These licensed social workers have completed two years of non-clinical supervised practice in addition to the hours earned in the LMSW.

The LMSW – AG is a terminal license for nonclinical social workers. Advanced Generalists apply social work processes to improve community health through interventions, policy development, and research. Earning the LMSW – AG requires passing the ASWB exam for generalists. Many states have more stringent guidelines for the license, including additional practice hours and exams. Candidates must be graduates from an accredited master’s program.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

LCSW is the terminal license for clinical social workers. Licensed clinical social workers provide clinical assessments, treatment, and interventions. LCSWs frequently maintain a private practice where they diagnose mental health conditions and provide psychotherapy. They also work in treatment centers, group homes, or government agencies. It is the only license in most states that allows social workers to provide clinical services.

The LCSW license requires 4,000 hours of supervised clinical practice. LCSWs must possess a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited program, pass the ASWB clinical exam, and meet continuing education requirements in their state.

Social Work License Reciprocity

Professional license reciprocity allows you to transfer your license to another state. There is no nationally recognized system of social work license reciprocity, but most states provide reciprocity if all social work requirements are met. Generally, licensed social workers do not need to repeat requirements to transfer their license. Most states accept original ASWB exam scores. Social workers may need to provide evidence of supervised professional experience, so it is important to maintain thorough records.

Social work licenses vary by state, so you may not be able to directly transfer your title. If there are differences between the state licensure requirements and your experience, the licensing board requires you to complete those requirements before granting licensure. You may need to take specific courses in ethics or state law and provide a letter of recommendation from your previous licensing board. You also need to fulfill state insurance requirements.