Social Work License Requirements By State

Q: Do all states offer bachelor's-level social work licenses?

No. Some states do not offer bachelor's-level social work licensure and require a master's degree for professional social work licensure. States that do offer bachelor's-level credentials typically limit practice to generalist, non-clinical social work services.

Q: What degree do I need to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker?

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential requires a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program, completion of state-required supervised clinical experience, and successful completion of the ASWB Clinical Examination.

Q: Can I transfer my social work license to another state?

Many states offer licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in another jurisdiction, although education, examination, and experience requirements must still be reviewed. The Social Work Licensure Compact may further simplify interstate practice where both states participate.

Choose Your State

Written by Laura Bennett, MPH, Last Updated: May 29, 2026

At a Glance

Social work license requirements vary by state, but two things are consistent nationwide: a degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program and passage of an Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam are required at every level. Most states offer licenses at the bachelor’s, master’s, and clinical tiers. Use the state guide below to find specific license types, supervised experience requirements, and reciprocity rules where you plan to practice.

Social work licensure in the United States operates state by state. The license types, titles, and requirements you’ll encounter depend on where you practice. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas follows a different credentialing path than an LCSW in New York, and some states use entirely different titles for the same license level. Ohio calls its top clinical credential the Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW). Washington State issues a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). Nebraska doesn’t use the LCSW title at all, though licensed social workers can earn it by combining two separate credentials.

Two things stay consistent across all 50 states and the District of Columbia: CSWE-accredited education is required for all license levels, and the ASWB exam is the standard credentialing exam nationwide. For a broader overview of the credential types and career paths in social work, see our guide to social work license requirements. If you’re weighing a social work path against a counseling credential, our LCSW vs. LMHC comparison may help. The Social Work Licensure Compact has been enacted in 32 states as of May 2026. The Compact Commission is working toward launching multi-state license issuance, with implementation expected in 2026, though multi-state licenses are not yet being issued. Until that process is complete, social workers who need to practice across state lines must still obtain individual licenses in each state. Each state’s specific requirements are below.

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Alabama Social Work License Requirements

Social worker licenses in Alabama are granted by the Alabama State Board of Social Work Examiners (ASBSWE). The board issues four types of social work licenses:

Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
Private Independent Practice (PIP)

All levels require a degree from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Alabama Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
Maintain four hours per month of supervision under a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) for two years

Alabama Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

Master of Social Work (MSW) or Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
Demonstrate a minimum of two years of supervision at four hours per month

Alabama Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW
Current LMSW license
At least two years of post-graduate continuing supervision from an LICSW
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Alabama Private Independent Practice (PIP) Requirements:

MSW or DSW with current LICSW license
Three years of full-time (or five years of part-time) post-MSW experience, or one year of full-time (or two years of part-time) post-graduate experience after receiving the LICSW
Declaration of at least one social work practice method for certification
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Alabama Social Work Reciprocity:

The ASBSWE grants licensure to social workers from other states with equivalent standards. You’ll need an active, good-standing license, proof of required supervision hours, and a complete disciplinary record. If you’ve passed the appropriate ASWB exam in another state, you won’t need to retest.

Alaska Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Alaska is handled by the Board of Clinical Social Work Examiners (BCSWE). The board issues three licenses:

Baccalaureate Social Worker (BSW)
Masters Social Worker (MSW)
Clinical Social Worker (CSW)

All levels require a CSWE-accredited degree and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam. A temporary one-year license may be issued while exam passage is pending.

Alaska Baccalaureate Social Worker (BSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Three professional references
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Alaska Masters Social Worker (MSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Three professional references
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Alaska Clinical Social Worker (CSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Three professional references
Two years of continuous full-time post-graduate clinical social work employment plus 3,000 hours within the past 10 years
100 hours of direct clinical supervision
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Alaska Social Work Reciprocity:

The BCSWE may grant licensure to social workers from states with equivalent or more stringent requirements. Only ASWB exams are recognized. For the BSW, MSW, and CSW, you’ll need to have passed the appropriate ASWB exam at least two years prior to application, or demonstrate 1,500 hours of licensed social work experience within the past five years including 45 hours of continuing education.

Arizona Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Arizona is handled by the state’s Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (BBHE). The board issues three levels of social work licensure:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require graduation from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam. A temporary license is available if you’re within 12 months of graduating and haven’t yet taken the exam.

Arizona Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
Pass one of the following ASWB exams: Bachelors, Masters, Advanced Generalist, or Clinical

Arizona Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

At least an MSW
Pass one of the following ASWB exams: Masters, Advanced Generalist, or Clinical

Arizona Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

At least an MSW
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
At least 3,200 hours of supervised clinical social work experience within the past 24 months, including at least 100 hours of clinical supervision (at least 50 under an LCSW) and at least 1,600 hours involving psychotherapy and direct client contact

Arizona Social Work Reciprocity:

You can apply for a temporary LBSW, LMSW, or LCSW in Arizona if you’re a licensed social worker in another state. Arizona residents with at least one year of out-of-state licensure and non-residents with at least three years of out-of-state licensure may apply at an equivalent level. All applicants must complete the Arizona Statutes/Regulations Tutorial.

Arkansas Social Work License Requirements

Licensing for social workers in Arkansas is handled by the state’s Social Work Licensing Board (SWLB). The board issues three categories of social work licenses:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam. A one-year provisional license may be issued at the LSW and LMSW levels while you await exam results.

Arkansas Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Arkansas Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

Master of Social Work
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Arkansas Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

Master of Social Work
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
Two years (4,000 hours) of post-graduate LCSW-supervised social work experience in a clinical or non-clinical setting

Arkansas Social Work Reciprocity:

If you’re licensed in another state at a similar level and have passed the appropriate ASWB exam, you can apply for licensure via reciprocity in Arkansas.

California Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in California is overseen by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS). California licenses social workers at one level only for independent practice. All aspiring LCSWs must first register as an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW) with the BBS before accumulating the supervised hours required for licensure:

Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW) registration
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Both require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program. California also requires completion of pre-licensure coursework and a California Law and Ethics exam, in addition to the ASWB Clinical exam.

California Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Register with the BBS as an ASW before accumulating supervised hours
ASW registration is required to begin accruing the clinical hours that count toward LCSW licensure

California Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised post-degree experience over a minimum of two years (104 weeks), including at least 2,000 hours of direct clinical experience in diagnosis, assessment, treatment, and counseling; at least 750 of those 2,000 hours must be face-to-face individual or group psychotherapy
All hours must be accumulated within 6 years preceding the license application
Complete required pre-licensure coursework (including child abuse assessment and reporting, human sexuality, substance abuse, and spousal abuse)
Pass the California Law and Ethics exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

California Social Work Reciprocity:

California does not have a formal reciprocity agreement with other states. Out-of-state licensed social workers can apply for licensure by endorsement if they hold an active license in another state, meet California’s education and experience requirements (including hours gained within 6 years of application), and pass the California Law and Ethics exam.

Colorado Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Colorado is handled by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), Division of Professions and Occupations. Colorado does not have a bachelor’s-level social work license. Both credentials require an MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program, passage of the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Exam, and the appropriate ASWB exam:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Colorado Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Exam
Pass the ASWB Masters exam (effective July 1, 2022, Colorado accepts only the ASWB Masters exam for LSW applicants)

Colorado Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Register as a Clinical Social Worker Candidate (SWC) before accumulating hours. Hours only count toward licensure if you are registered as a candidate when they are accrued
3,360 hours of supervised post-degree clinical social work experience over a minimum of 24 months, including at least 1,680 hours of direct client contact in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and counseling
At least 96 hours of supervision from a licensed LCSW, including 48 hours of face-to-face individual supervision
Pass the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Colorado Social Work Reciprocity:

Colorado offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who hold an active LSW license in another jurisdiction. Applicants must meet Colorado’s education and exam requirements. Contact DORA for current documentation requirements.

Connecticut Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Connecticut is overseen by the Connecticut Department of Public Health. The state issues two social work licenses. Connecticut does not have a bachelor’s-level social work license. Both credentials require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program (the state also accepts programs in CSWE candidacy status, designated 2024–2028). Connecticut uses an annual renewal cycle, which is uncommon among states, with 15 continuing education hours required per 12-month period.

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Connecticut Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program (or CSWE candidacy-designated program)
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Connecticut Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
At least two years of supervised clinical social work experience, with a minimum of four hours of supervised work per month, completed within three years
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Connecticut Social Work Reciprocity:

Connecticut offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Connecticut’s education and exam requirements. The state may substitute three years of licensed clinical practice in another state for supervised hour requirements in some cases.

Delaware Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Delaware is handled by the Delaware Board of Clinical Social Work Examiners. The board issues three levels of licensure:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree and the appropriate ASWB exam.

Delaware Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Delaware Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Delaware Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,200 hours of supervised post-graduate clinical experience, under the supervision of a Delaware LCSW, psychiatrist, or psychologist
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Delaware Social Work Reciprocity:

Delaware offers licensure by reciprocity for clinical social workers licensed in another jurisdiction whose current license is in good standing and whose state’s licensing requirements are substantially similar to Delaware’s. Applicants must have passed the ASWB Clinical exam.

Washington D.C. Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Washington D.C. is managed by the District of Columbia’s Board of Social Work. The board grants four credentials:

Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA)
Licensed Graduate Social Work (LGSW)
Licensed Independent Social Work (LISW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Work (LICSW)

All require graduation from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Washington D.C. Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Washington D.C. Licensed Graduate Social Work (LGSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Washington D.C. Licensed Independent Social Work (LISW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW
Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam
At least two years of licensure at a lower level
3,000 hours of post-master’s or post-doctoral social work experience
100 hours of supervised experience under an LISW

Washington D.C. Licensed Independent Clinical Social Work (LICSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
At least two years of licensure at a lower level
3,000 hours of post-master’s or post-doctoral social work experience
100 hours of supervised experience under an LICSW

Washington D.C. Social Work Reciprocity:

The DC Board of Social Work does not have formal reciprocity agreements with any other state. However, licensed social workers from other states may apply for licensure in DC via endorsement at an equivalent level if they have fulfilled DC’s requirements while working in another state.

Florida Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Florida is handled by the Florida Department of Health. The state uses a distinctive credentialing approach with three categories:

Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW)
Registered Clinical Social Work Intern (RCSWI)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Florida does not have a bachelor’s-level social work license for independent practice. All credentials require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program.

Florida Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Florida Registered Clinical Social Work Intern (RCSWI) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Intern registration allows accumulation of supervised hours toward the LCSW

Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Two years (100 hours of direct supervision) of post-graduate supervised clinical experience under a licensed professional
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
Complete required HIV/AIDS and domestic violence training within 6 months of licensure

Florida Social Work Reciprocity:

Florida offers licensure by endorsement for clinical social workers licensed in another state whose license is active, unencumbered, and meets Florida’s education and experience requirements. Applicants must have passed a comparable licensing examination.

Georgia Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Georgia is overseen by the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. The board issues two social work licenses:

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Georgia does not have a bachelor’s-level social work license. Both credentials require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program.

Georgia Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Georgia Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
At least two years (3,000 hours) of supervised post-graduate clinical social work experience
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Georgia Social Work Reciprocity:

Georgia offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Georgia’s education, exam, and experience requirements and whose current license is active and in good standing.

Hawaii Social Work License Requirements

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs’ Professional and Vocational Licensing Division issues three social work credentials:

Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require graduation from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Hawaii Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Hawaii Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

Master’s or doctoral degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Masters, Advanced Generalist, or Clinical exam

Hawaii Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

Master’s or doctoral degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
One of the following: at least 3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical experience completed over a minimum of two years; a QCSW or DCSW credential from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW); or a BCD credential from the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work (ABE)

Hawaii Social Work Reciprocity:

You can be eligible for any level of licensure in Hawaii if you have the requisite education, have passed the appropriate ASWB exam, and for the LCSW credential can meet the experience or credential requirements.

Idaho Social Work License Requirements

The Idaho Board of Social Work Examiners issues three types of social work credentials:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Each requires an appropriate degree from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Idaho Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Idaho Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Idaho Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work
3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Idaho Social Work Reciprocity:

You can qualify for a social work license in Idaho via endorsement if you meet Idaho’s education and exam requirements, plus the experience requirements for the LCSW credential.

Illinois Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Illinois is handled by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). The state issues two social work licenses:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

As of January 1, 2022, Illinois removed the ASWB exam requirement for LSW applicants. The LCSW still requires both supervised hours and passage of the ASWB Clinical exam (or use of an exam alternative under PA 103-433).

Illinois Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program (no ASWB exam and no additional supervised experience required)
Alternatively: BSW from a CSWE-accredited program plus three years of supervised professional experience (averaging at least 4 hours per month of direct supervision by a licensed social worker)

Illinois Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised clinical professional experience (supervised by an LCSW, averaging at least 4 hours per month)
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam, or meet the exam alternative (an additional 3,000 hours of supervised professional experience separate from the clinical hours, per PA 103-433)

Illinois Social Work Reciprocity:

Illinois offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Illinois education and experience requirements. Endorsement applicants must have their ASWB exam scores transferred from another state’s licensing board to IDFPR.

Indiana Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Indiana is handled by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. The state issues three levels of licensure. All LSW and LCSW applicants must also pass a 30-question state jurisprudence exam on Indiana statutes and rules (75% passing score required).

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Indiana Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Indiana Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
Pass the Indiana jurisprudence exam

Indiana Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical experience, with at least half in direct service work and at least four hours per month of direct supervision from an LCSW
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
Pass the Indiana jurisprudence exam

Indiana Social Work Reciprocity:

Indiana offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Indiana’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Applicants should contact the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency for current documentation requirements.

Iowa Social Work License Requirements

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services’ Board of Social Work issues three types of social work credentials:

Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

All require an appropriate degree from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Iowa Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Iowa Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Iowa Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work
At least 4,000 hours of supervised professional practice at the LMSW level over a minimum of two years, including at least 110 hours of direct supervision
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Iowa Social Work Reciprocity:

If you hold a social work license in another state with equivalent education and examination requirements, you can apply for licensure in Iowa by providing verification of your out-of-state license, confirmation of your education, and proof of ASWB exam passage to the Iowa Board of Social Work.

Kansas Social Work License Requirements

The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board issues three types of social work credentials:

Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW)

All require a Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Kansas Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Kansas Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Kansas Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised work experience in a clinical setting

Kansas Social Work Reciprocity:

If you hold an active license in another state with similar education, exam, and experience requirements, you can apply for licensure via reciprocity in Kansas.

Kentucky Social Work License Requirements

The Kentucky Board of Social Work issues three types of social work credentials:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Certified Social Worker (CSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Kentucky Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or an equivalent Social Welfare program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Kentucky Certified Social Worker (CSW) Requirements:

Master’s or doctoral degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Kentucky Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

Master’s or doctoral degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
Two years of supervised social work practice as a CSW

Kentucky Social Work Reciprocity:

You can apply for licensure in Kentucky if you hold an equivalent level of social work licensure in another state and have met Kentucky’s education, exam, and experience requirements.

Louisiana Social Work License Requirements

The Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners issues four types of social work credentials:

Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Certified Social Worker (CSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.

Louisiana Registered Social Worker (RSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Social Work

Louisiana Certified Social Worker (CSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work

Louisiana Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Louisiana Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work
5,760 hours of post-graduate social work practice experience, including 3,840 supervised hours
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Louisiana Social Work Reciprocity:

Louisiana maintains reciprocity agreements with states that have comparable credentialing requirements. Where no formal agreement exists, the board may still grant credentials via endorsement if the out-of-state credential had similar requirements to Louisiana’s.

Maine Social Work License Requirements

Maine’s State Board of Social Worker Licensure issues five types of social work credentials:

Licensed Social Worker (LS)
Licensed Social Worker, Conditional (LSX)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LM)
Licensed Master Social Worker, Conditional Clinical (MC)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LC)

All levels require passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Maine Licensed Social Worker (LS) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Maine Licensed Social Worker, Conditional (LSX) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in a field sufficiently related to social work or social welfare
Evidence of current employment in a social work setting
Agreement form for 96 hours of consultation in the first 3,200 hours of social work employment, including 12 hours of ethics and psychosocial assessment

Maine Licensed Master Social Worker (LM) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Maine Licensed Master Social Worker, Conditional Clinical (MC) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Agreement form for supervised clinical consultation hours (96 hours in the first 3,200 hours for clinical concentration MSW programs; 192 hours in the first 6,400 hours for MSW programs without clinical concentration)
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Maine Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LC) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Licensed Master Social Worker, Conditional Clinical (MC) license with completed clinical consultation
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Maine Social Work Reciprocity:

You can apply for an equivalent social work license in Maine if you hold a valid social work license in another state and meet Maine’s education and exam requirements. The State Board of Social Work Licensure recognizes equivalent experience gained in out-of-state social work practice.

Maryland Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Maryland is overseen by the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners. Maryland issues four levels of social work licensure. An important distinction: the LCSW in Maryland is an advanced generalist credential that does not authorize independent clinical practice. The LCSW-C is the clinical license that permits independent psychotherapy, diagnosis, and private practice.

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)
Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C)

Maryland Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Maryland Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
No supervised experience required for LGSW

Maryland Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Current LGSW credential
3,000 hours of supervised post-graduate social work experience over at least two years
Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist or Masters exam
Authorizes independent non-clinical practice and supervised clinical work. Does not authorize independent psychotherapy or private practice

Maryland Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program including at least 12 credit hours of clinical coursework
Current LGSW or LCSW credential
3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical social work experience over at least 104 weeks (approximately two years), including at least 1,500 hours of face-to-face client contact and 100 hours of direct supervision under a board-approved LCSW-C
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Maryland Social Work Reciprocity:

Maryland does not offer traditional reciprocity with other states. Maryland joined the Social Work Licensure Compact in April 2025, which will allow eligible licensed social workers to apply for multi-state practice privileges across compact member states once the compact is fully operational.

Massachusetts Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Massachusetts is handled by the Board of Registration of Social Workers. The board issues four social work credentials:

Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA)
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Massachusetts Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA) Requirements:

Associate degree in a human services-related field (social work, psychology, etc.), or BSW, or documented evidence of at least four years of social work experience
Pass the ASWB Associate Level exam
Three professional references including at least one from a licensed social worker
Must practice under supervision of an LSW, LCSW, or LICSW (minimum one face-to-face supervision hour per 35 work hours)

Massachusetts Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
Three professional references

Massachusetts Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
Three professional references including at least one from an LICSW or LCSW
No supervised post-degree hours required for the LCSW credential. Allows clinical services under the supervision of an LICSW

Massachusetts Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Current LCSW license (or equivalent from another state)
3,500 hours of post-LCSW supervised clinical social work experience over a minimum of two years, including at least 100 hours of direct supervision under an LICSW
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Massachusetts Social Work Reciprocity:

Massachusetts offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Massachusetts education, exam, and experience requirements and whose current license is active and in good standing.

Michigan Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Michigan is handled by the Michigan Bureau of Professional Licensing (BPL). The state issues three social work credentials:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Limited License Master Social Worker (LLMSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

Michigan’s LLMSW is a provisional license for MSW graduates accumulating hours toward the full LMSW. The LMSW requires 4,000 hours of supervised post-graduate experience and authorizes broad social work practice.

Michigan Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Michigan Limited License Master Social Worker (LLMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
Practice under supervision while accumulating hours toward the LMSW

Michigan Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience over a minimum of two years, under the supervision of a licensed master’s-degree-holding Michigan social worker

Michigan Social Work Reciprocity:

Michigan offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Michigan’s education, exam, and experience requirements.

Minnesota Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Minnesota is handled by the Minnesota Board of Social Work. The state issues three types of social work licenses:

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)
Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Minnesota does not have a bachelor’s-level social work license. All three credentials require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program.

Minnesota Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Minnesota Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
LGSW credential
Two years of supervised post-graduate social work practice (approximately 4,000 hours)
Pass the ASWB Masters or Advanced Generalist exam

Minnesota Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
LGSW credential
Two years of supervised post-graduate clinical social work practice
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Minnesota Social Work Reciprocity:

Minnesota offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Minnesota’s education, exam, and experience requirements.

Mississippi Social Work License Requirements

The Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists issues social work licenses at three levels:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

To be eligible for any level, you must pass the appropriate ASWB exam.

Mississippi Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from a school accredited by CSWE or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Mississippi Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited school, or a doctoral degree in Social Work
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Mississippi Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

Current LMSW in good standing
100 hours of face-to-face supervision by an LCSW over at least two years
1,000 hours of face-to-face client contact
Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist or Clinical exam

Mississippi Social Work Reciprocity:

If you hold a valid social work license in another state that’s equivalent to Mississippi’s levels and have passed the appropriate ASWB exam, you can apply for licensure via reciprocity or endorsement.

Missouri Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Missouri is handled by the Missouri Committee for Social Workers, a division of the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. The committee issues four types of social work licenses:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW)

All require a degree from a CSWE-accredited program and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Missouri Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
Practice under supervision initially. After 3,000 hours of supervised experience over 24 to 48 months, LBSW holders may practice independently within the LBSW scope

Missouri Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
The LMSW allows independent advanced generalist social work practice in non-clinical settings, and clinical or macro practice under supervision while accruing hours toward the LCSW or LAMSW

Missouri Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Current LMSW license
3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work experience over a minimum of two years as a licensed LMSW
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Missouri Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Current LMSW license
3,000 hours of supervised macro social work experience as a licensed LMSW
Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam

Missouri Social Work Reciprocity:

Missouri offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Missouri’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Applicants should contact the Missouri Committee for Social Workers for current endorsement documentation requirements.

Montana Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Montana is handled by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry’s Board of Behavioral Health (BBH). The board issues three social work credentials:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam. Candidate licenses are available at each level for professionals still accumulating supervised practice hours.

Montana Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program
Background check through Montana’s Department of Justice
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Montana Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Montana Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised post-master’s clinical social work experience over a minimum of two years
100 hours of direct supervision, with at least half under a licensed clinical social worker
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam (the BBH also accepts the Advanced Generalist exam for the LCSW)

Montana Social Work Reciprocity:

Montana offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Montana’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Applicants should contact the Board of Behavioral Health with current license verification and supporting documentation.

Nebraska Social Work License Requirements

Social work credentialing in Nebraska is handled by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Licensure Unit. Nebraska uses a combined social work and mental health practitioner credentialing system. The state does not issue a standalone LCSW license, but social workers can use the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) title by holding both the CMSW and an LMHP or LIMHP credential.

Certified Social Worker (CSW)
Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW)
Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP)
Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP)

Nebraska Certified Social Worker (CSW) Requirements:

BSW or MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Allows social work activities and case management. Does not permit private or independent practice

Nebraska Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised social work experience
Allows master’s-level social work practice in supervised settings

Nebraska Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised mental health experience over 2 to 5 years (at least 1,500 hours with clients in major mental illness or disorder categories)
Allows clinical treatment but not assessment or diagnosis of major mental disorders

Nebraska Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised experience meeting LIMHP requirements
Allows independent clinical practice including assessment and diagnosis of major mental disorders

Nebraska Social Work Reciprocity:

Nebraska enacted the Social Work Licensure Compact in 2024, which will allow eligible licensed social workers to obtain multi-state practice privileges as the compact becomes fully operational. Out-of-state social workers can also apply for credentialing by meeting Nebraska’s education and experience requirements through the DHHS Licensure Unit.

Nevada Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Nevada is handled by the State of Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers (BESW). The board issues four types of social work licenses. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age.

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Nevada Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

BSW or MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Must be at least 21 years of age
Pass the ASWB Bachelors or Masters exam

Nevada Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Nevada Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Board-approved post-graduate internship
Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam

Nevada Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised post-graduate social work practice (at least 2,000 hours in face-to-face clinical work including psychotherapy techniques; at least 1,000 clinical hours within a two- to three-year period)
Weekly face-to-face supervision by a licensed Clinical Social Worker
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Nevada Social Work Reciprocity:

Nevada offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Nevada’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Contact the BESW for current documentation requirements.

New Hampshire Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in New Hampshire is handled by the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification, Board of Mental Health Practice. The board issues three levels of social work licensure:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

New Hampshire Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

New Hampshire Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

New Hampshire Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
At least two years of supervised post-graduate clinical social work experience (3,000 hours)
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

New Hampshire Social Work Reciprocity:

New Hampshire offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in another state, provided their current license is active and in good standing and their state’s requirements are substantially equivalent to New Hampshire’s.

New Jersey Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in New Jersey is handled by the New Jersey State Board of Social Work Examiners. New Jersey issues three types of credentials:

Certified Social Worker (CSW)
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

The CSW is unique in that it requires no licensing examination, only a CSWE-accredited degree.

New Jersey Certified Social Worker (CSW) Requirements:

BSW or MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
No ASWB exam required

New Jersey Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

New Jersey Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised post-graduate clinical social work experience over two to three years
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

New Jersey Social Work Reciprocity:

New Jersey offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in another state, provided their current license is active and in good standing. The New Jersey State Board of Social Work Examiners evaluates whether the out-of-state licensing standards are substantially equivalent to New Jersey’s.

New Mexico Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in New Mexico is handled by the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, Board of Social Work Examiners. New Mexico issues three levels of licensure and requires all applicants to pass a state jurisprudence exam and meet a cultural competency requirement in addition to the standard ASWB exam.

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

New Mexico Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
Pass the New Mexico jurisprudence exam with a score of at least 70%
Meet the New Mexico cultural competency requirement

New Mexico Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
Pass the New Mexico jurisprudence exam
Complete the required cultural coursework

New Mexico Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,600 hours of supervised post-graduate clinical social work experience
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
Pass the New Mexico jurisprudence exam

New Mexico Social Work Reciprocity:

New Mexico offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet New Mexico’s education, exam, and experience requirements, including the state-specific jurisprudence and cultural competency requirements.

New York Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in New York is handled by the New York State Education Department (NYSED), Office of the Professions. New York issues two social work licenses:

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

New York does not have a bachelor’s-level social work license for independent practice. Both credentials require an MSW from a program meeting NYSED education standards, commonly from a CSWE-accredited school. The LCSW-R designation was eliminated effective January 1, 2023. New York also requires a completed, NYSED-approved child abuse identification and reporting training for all license levels.

New York Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW including at least 12 semester hours of clinical social work coursework
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
Complete the NYSED-approved child abuse reporting training

New York Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

LMSW or limited permit holder in good standing in New York
Three years of supervised post-MSW clinical experience in diagnosis, psychotherapy, and assessment-based treatment planning (36 to 72 months)
At least 100 hours of in-person individual or group clinical supervision by a New York-licensed LCSW, qualified psychologist, or psychiatrist
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
Submit a Plan for Supervised Experience (Form 6) to the State Board before supervised hours begin for them to count toward LCSW eligibility

New York Social Work Reciprocity:

Out-of-state licensed social workers can apply for New York licensure at an equivalent level by meeting NYSED’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Applicants should contact the NYSED Office of the Professions for current endorsement procedures.

North Carolina Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in North Carolina is handled by the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board. The board issues four credentials:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate (LCSWA)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

The LCSWA is a provisional clinical license for MSW graduates who have not yet completed the supervised hours required for the full LCSW. All levels require a CSWE-accredited degree and appropriate ASWB exam.

North Carolina Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

North Carolina Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate (LCSWA) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Practice under appropriate supervision while accumulating the hours required for the LCSW
Must complete at least two years of supervised clinical practice before becoming eligible to sit for the ASWB Clinical exam

North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
LCSWA credential
3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience including at least 100 hours of clinical supervision
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

North Carolina Social Work Reciprocity:

North Carolina offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet North Carolina’s education, exam, and experience requirements and whose current license is active and in good standing.

North Dakota Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in North Dakota is overseen by the North Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners. The board issues three levels of social work licensure:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree, passage of the appropriate ASWB exam, three professional references, and background checks.

North Dakota Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
LBSW holders are not eligible for private practice

North Dakota Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

North Dakota Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised post-graduate clinical practice completed within four years of earning the master’s degree
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

North Dakota Social Work Reciprocity:

North Dakota offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet North Dakota’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Licenses must be renewed by December 31 of odd-numbered years.

Ohio Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Ohio is handled by the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Ohio issues four levels of social work credentials, plus a trainee designation (SW-T) for students:

Social Worker Assistant (SWA)
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)
Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S)

All applicants must pass a background check and watch the Ohio Board’s Laws and Rules video. Ohio’s LSW requires passage of an ASWB exam. The SWA does not. Starting July 10, 2026, the LISW will require only the ASWB Clinical exam (previously, the Advanced Generalist exam was also accepted).

Ohio Social Worker Assistant (SWA) Requirements:

Associate degree in social service technology or equivalent coursework as defined by the board
No ASWB exam required
Must practice under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional

Ohio Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

BSW, MSW, or DSW from an Ohio Board-approved program
Pass the ASWB exam at the Bachelors, Masters, Clinical, or Advanced Generalist level depending on degree
LSW holders must be supervised when diagnosing and treating mental and emotional disorders

Ohio Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a board-approved program
Current LSW credential
3,000 hours of supervised post-MSW and post-LSW experience over a minimum of two years, with 150 hours of documented supervision by an LISW-S
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam. Starting July 10, 2026, only the Clinical exam is accepted. The Advanced Generalist exam was previously accepted as well

Ohio Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) Requirements:

Current LISW in good standing
Completion of Ohio Board-approved supervision training
Allows the LISW-S to provide supervision toward the LISW credential

Ohio Social Work Reciprocity:

Ohio does not have formal licensure reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state social workers can apply for an Ohio LSW or LISW through the reciprocal application process. Ohio will consider existing ASWB exam scores and supervised experience from other states. Ohio has joined the Social Work Licensure Compact, which will provide additional multi-state practice options once the compact is fully operational.

Oklahoma Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Oklahoma is handled by the Oklahoma State Board of Licensed Social Workers (OSBLSW). The board issues four types of social work licenses, with updated LCSW experience requirements following HB 3015 (effective November 1, 2024):

Licensed Social Worker Associate (LSWA)
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree and the appropriate ASWB exam. Oklahoma joined the Social Work Licensure Compact in 2025.

Oklahoma Licensed Social Worker Associate (LSWA) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
Supervised work experience required for practice

Oklahoma Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Oklahoma Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Oklahoma Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of post-degree direct client contact in a clinical setting (per HB 3015, effective November 2024)
100 hours of face-to-face educational supervision with a Board-approved LCSW supervisor
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Oklahoma Social Work Reciprocity:

Oklahoma offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Oklahoma’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Oklahoma joined the Social Work Licensure Compact in 2025, which will provide additional multi-state practice options as the compact becomes fully operational.

Oregon Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Oregon is handled by the Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers (OBLSW). The board issues four credentials:

Registered Baccalaureate Social Worker (RBSW)
Clinical Social Work Associate (CSWA)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

The CSWA is a provisional clinical license for MSW graduates accumulating hours toward the LCSW. The RBSW credential requires a BSW. CSWA licenses renew annually. All other credentials renew every two years.

Oregon Registered Baccalaureate Social Worker (RBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Oregon Clinical Social Work Associate (CSWA) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Register as CSWA to begin accumulating supervised hours toward the LCSW

Oregon Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Oregon Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,500 hours of post-master’s supervised clinical experience, including at least 2,000 hours of direct client contact
100 hours of supervision, including at least 50 hours in individual (one-on-one) supervision
All hours completed over a minimum of 24 months
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Oregon Social Work Reciprocity:

Oregon offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states. Applicants must meet Oregon’s education and experience requirements and request that the ASWB transfer exam scores to the Oregon Board before applying.

Pennsylvania Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Pennsylvania is handled by the Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors. The board issues three levels of social work licensure:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Note that the Pennsylvania LSW requires an MSW, not just a bachelor’s degree. Pennsylvania has no formal reciprocity agreement with other states.

Pennsylvania Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Pennsylvania Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Pennsylvania Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Supervised clinical social work experience completed within six years of MSW graduation
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Pennsylvania Social Work Reciprocity:

Pennsylvania has no formal reciprocity agreement with any other state. Out-of-state licensed social workers must meet all standard Pennsylvania licensure requirements including education, supervised experience, and the appropriate ASWB exam. Applicants should have active clinical practice in at least 2 of the 5 years preceding their application for LCSW endorsement.

Rhode Island Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Rhode Island is handled by the Rhode Island Department of Health, Board of Examiners in Social Workers (BESW). Rhode Island issues two clinical social work licenses:

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Rhode Island’s LCSW functions similarly to what other states call an LMSW: it’s a post-master’s license that permits clinical work under supervision. Independent clinical practice requires the LICSW. Both licenses require an MSW or doctoral degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program.

Rhode Island Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
No supervised post-degree hours required for LCSW licensure
No ASWB exam required for LCSW until at least August 15, 2030, per RI General Laws Chapter 5-39.1-8 as amended in June 2025 (the Rhode Island Department of Health confirms the exam “will not be required until at least August 15, 2030”)
Must be at least 21 years of age

Rhode Island Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Requirements:

Must hold an LCSW before applying
3,000 hours of supervised post-master’s clinical experience within 24 to 72 months
At least 1,500 hours of direct client services under an LICSW supervisor
At least 75% of supervision hours in one-on-one supervision
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Rhode Island Social Work Reciprocity:

Rhode Island offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Rhode Island’s education and experience requirements. Both LCSW and LICSW licenses renew every two years on May 1 of odd-numbered years, with 30 hours of continuing education per cycle.

South Carolina Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in South Carolina is handled by the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners. The board issues four social work credentials:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Independent Social Worker for Clinical Practice (LISW-CP)
Licensed Independent Social Worker for Advanced Practice (LISW-AP)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree (or equivalent from CASSW-accredited programs where applicable) and the appropriate ASWB exam. The two independent practice licenses also require Board-approved supervision contracts and approximately 3,000 supervised hours.

South Carolina Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
LBSWs may not diagnose or treat mental illness, provide psychotherapy, or practice independently

South Carolina Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

South Carolina LISW-CP and LISW-AP Requirements:

Current LMSW in good standing
Board-approved LISW Supervision Contract approved before supervised hours begin
Approximately 3,000 hours of supervised experience within a Board-defined timeframe
Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist or Clinical exam

South Carolina Social Work Reciprocity:

South Carolina has no formal reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state social workers must meet all South Carolina licensure requirements. All license types renew every two years with 40 hours of continuing education.

South Dakota Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in South Dakota is handled by the South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners. The board issues four types of credentials:

Social Work Associate (SWA)
Social Worker (SW)
Certified Social Worker (CSW)
Certified Social Worker in Private Independent Practice (CSW-PIP)

South Dakota Social Work Associate (SWA) Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field
Employment in a social work role under supervision

South Dakota Social Worker (SW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

South Dakota Certified Social Worker (CSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters or Advanced Generalist exam

South Dakota Certified Social Worker in Private Independent Practice (CSW-PIP) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Two years of supervised clinical experience
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

South Dakota Social Work Reciprocity:

South Dakota offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet South Dakota’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Licenses expire on January 1 of the second year after issuance, with 30 hours of continuing education required per renewal period.

Tennessee Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Tennessee is handled by the Tennessee Board of Social Worker Certification and Licensure. The board issues four social work credentials:

Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Advanced Practice Social Worker (LAPSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

The LAPSW is Tennessee’s non-clinical advanced practice credential for macro-level work in community organization, administration, or policy. The LCSW is for clinical practice.

Tennessee Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
LBSWs are not eligible for independent practice or clinical services

Tennessee Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
LMSWs are not eligible for independent practice or clinical services

Tennessee Licensed Advanced Practice Social Worker (LAPSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised macro-level social work experience
Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam

Tennessee Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work experience over a minimum of two years
At least 100 hours of one-on-one supervision during the experience period
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Tennessee Social Work Reciprocity:

Tennessee offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Tennessee’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Tennessee uses the CE Broker system for tracking continuing education requirements.

Texas Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Texas is handled by the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners (BHEC). Texas issues three levels of social work licensure:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree, the appropriate ASWB exam, a jurisprudence exam, and a criminal background check.

Texas Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
Pass the Texas jurisprudence exam

Texas Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
Pass the Texas jurisprudence exam

Texas Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Supervised clinical experience (supervision plan must be submitted to the Board within 30 days of beginning supervised practice)
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
Pass the Texas jurisprudence exam

Texas Social Work Reciprocity:

Texas offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states whose current license is active and in good standing. Applicants must meet Texas education and experience requirements and submit verification of their out-of-state license.

Utah Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Utah is handled by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). The state issues three levels of social work credentials:

Supervised Social Worker (SSW)
Certified Social Worker (CSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Utah Supervised Social Worker (SSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam
Practice under supervision

Utah Certified Social Worker (CSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Utah Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
4,000 hours of supervised post-graduate clinical experience over a minimum of two years
200 hours of direct supervision
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Utah Social Work Reciprocity:

Utah does not have formal reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state social workers must apply for licensure by endorsement, which requires meeting all of Utah’s standard licensure criteria.

Vermont Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Vermont is handled by the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation. Vermont offers two social work licenses:

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Vermont does not have a bachelor’s-level social work license. Both the LMSW and LICSW require an MSW from a board-approved program and passage of the Vermont jurisprudence exam.

Vermont Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a board-approved program (commonly CSWE-accredited)
Pass the Vermont jurisprudence exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Vermont Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Requirements:

MSW from a board-approved program
Current LMSW
3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work experience over a minimum of two years
Pass the Vermont jurisprudence exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Vermont Social Work Reciprocity:

Vermont offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Vermont’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Licenses renew every two years with 20 hours of continuing education required for the LICSW and 10 hours for the LMSW.

Virginia Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Virginia is handled by the Virginia Board of Social Work. The board issues three levels of social work licensure:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Virginia Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Virginia Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Virginia Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Supervised post-graduate clinical experience
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Virginia Social Work Reciprocity:

Virginia offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Virginia’s education and exam requirements. Licenses renew every two years with 15 hours of continuing education for LBSW and LMSW, and 30 hours for LCSW holders, including ethics content.

Washington Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Washington State is handled by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). The DOH issues two provisional (associate) credentials and two full licenses, all requiring an MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program:

Licensed Social Worker Associate-Advanced (LSWAA)
Licensed Social Worker Associate-Independent Clinical (LSWAIC)
Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

The LSWAA and LSWAIC are associate-level licenses that allow you to accumulate supervised experience toward the LASW or LICSW. As of October 1, 2025, applicants with a completed associate license application submitted to the DOH may begin practicing under supervision for up to 120 days while their application is pending.

Washington LSWAA and LSWAIC Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Background check
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
Practice under supervision while accumulating hours toward the LASW or LICSW

Washington Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW) Requirements:

Current LSWAA credential
3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, including at least 800 hours of direct client contact
90 hours of supervision by an LASW or LICSW who has been licensed for at least two years
Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam

Washington Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Requirements:

Current LSWAIC credential
4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical experience over a minimum of three years, including at least 1,000 hours of direct client contact supervised by an LICSW
At least 100 hours of direct supervision by an LICSW or equally qualified licensed mental health practitioner
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Washington Social Work Reciprocity:

Washington State offers endorsement for out-of-state licensed social workers. If you have been licensed in good standing without a disqualifying criminal history in another state for more than five years, the DOH does not require proof of supervision hours. Those licensed for less than five years must provide supervisor verification forms.

West Virginia Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in West Virginia is handled by the West Virginia Board of Social Work. The board issues four levels of social work licensure:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)
Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam. The LCSW requires proof of at least 4 hours of AIDS awareness training.

West Virginia Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

West Virginia Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
No supervised experience required for LGSW

West Virginia Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Current LGSW in good standing
Supervised post-graduate clinical social work experience over a minimum of two years
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam
Proof of at least 4 hours of AIDS awareness training

West Virginia Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) Requirements:

MSW or DSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Current LCSW in good standing
Additional supervised clinical experience and practice requirements as set by the Board
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

West Virginia Social Work Reciprocity:

West Virginia offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet West Virginia’s education, exam, and experience requirements and whose current license is active and in good standing.

Wisconsin Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Wisconsin is handled by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). The department issues three levels of social work licensure:

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

All require a CSWE-accredited degree and passage of the appropriate ASWB exam.

Wisconsin Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements:

BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Bachelors exam

Wisconsin Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam

Wisconsin Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of supervised post-graduate clinical social work experience, including at least 100 hours of direct supervision
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Wisconsin Social Work Reciprocity:

Wisconsin offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Wisconsin’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Licenses renew every two years with 30 hours of continuing education, including at least 4 hours in ethics and professional boundaries.

Wyoming Social Work License Requirements

Social work licensing in Wyoming is handled by the Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board. Wyoming issues two social work licenses, both requiring an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Wyoming Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Requirements:

MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Pass the ASWB Masters exam
No supervised experience required beyond the MSW degree

Wyoming Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements:

MSW with coursework in clinical practice from a CSWE-accredited program
3,000 hours of post-MSW supervised clinical social work experience over a minimum of two years
At least 100 hours of direct supervision by a licensed clinical social worker
Pass the ASWB Clinical exam

Wyoming Social Work Reciprocity:

Wyoming offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states who meet Wyoming’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Contact the Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board for current application requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ASWB exam, and who needs to take it?

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) administers the national licensing examination used by virtually all U.S. states. The exam is offered at four levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Advanced Generalist, and Clinical. The level you need depends on your degree and the license you’re pursuing. A small number of states, including Ohio and Illinois (at the LSW level), have modified or eliminated the exam requirement at certain license levels, so always check with your state board directly.

Do all states offer bachelor’s-level social work licenses?

No. Many states, including California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont, do not license at the bachelor’s level. In those states, independent social work practice requires at least a master’s degree. States that do offer bachelor’s-level licensure typically title it the Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) or Licensed Social Worker (LSW), and practice is generally limited to generalist, non-clinical work under supervision.

What is the Social Work Licensure Compact?

The Social Work Licensure Compact is an interstate agreement that allows eligible licensed social workers to apply for practice privileges in other member states without going through the full licensing process in each state. A growing number of states have enacted compact legislation, and implementation is rolling out through 2025 and 2026. If you’re considering working across state lines or practicing via telehealth, check whether your state and your target state are both compact members.

What degree do I need to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker?

In every U.S. state, the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential (or its equivalent title) requires at least a Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, plus post-graduate supervised clinical experience. Requirements range from approximately two years of supervised practice at a minimum to 4,000 hours in states like Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, and Minnesota. Colorado requires 3,360 hours, Oregon 3,500, and New Mexico 3,600, the highest in the country. Following the supervised experience period, applicants must pass the ASWB Clinical exam. Check your specific state’s board for exact hours and supervision requirements.

Can I transfer my social work license to another state?

Most states offer licensure by endorsement for social workers who are already licensed in good standing in another state, provided you meet the new state’s education, exam, and experience requirements. Formal reciprocity agreements between specific states are less common. Pennsylvania and South Carolina, for example, have no formal reciprocity, requiring out-of-state applicants to meet full in-state requirements. The Social Work Licensure Compact, where both states are members, simplifies multi-state practice significantly. Contact the licensing board in your target state for current endorsement procedures.

Key Takeaways

All U.S. states and the District of Columbia require social workers to hold a degree from a CSWE-accredited program and pass the ASWB exam at the appropriate level. Illinois is a notable exception at the LSW tier, where the exam was removed in 2022.
License types and titles vary significantly by state. What Ohio calls a Licensed Independent Social Worker, Texas calls a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Read your state’s specific requirements carefully before planning your path.
Most states offer three licensing tiers: bachelor’s, master’s, and clinical. Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, New York, and Vermont do not offer bachelor’s-level social work licensure.
Supervised hours for independent clinical licensure range from roughly two years of supervised practice at a minimum to 4,000 hours in states like Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, and Minnesota. Colorado requires 3,360 hours and Oregon 3,500.
The Social Work Licensure Compact has been enacted in 32 states as of May 2026. Multi-state license issuance is expected in 2026 but is not yet available.
Always verify current requirements directly with your state licensing board before applying. Hour requirements, exam rules, and license types do change.

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Laura Bennett, MPH Public Health Educator

Laura Bennett, MPH is a public health professional with over 12 years of experience in community health education and program coordination. She specializes in helping aspiring professionals explore flexible education pathways, including online and hybrid public health degree programs. Laura is passionate about making public health careers more accessible through practical, accredited training

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