LCSW Licensing Requirements
Before applying for licensure, please familiarize yourself with the general licensing policies.
An applicant for licensure by examination shall meet the following requirements:
Hold a master's or doctorate degree from a social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE);
Successfully completed three thousand (3000) hours of post-master's social work experience including not less than one hundred (100) hours of work experience under professional supervision by a licensed clinical or certified independent social worker;
Successfully completed the Clinical Level Examination of the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB).
Documentation Requirements
Applicants must arrange for the submission of the following documentation directly to this office from the source:
Official transcript verifying the award of a master's or doctorate degree from an accredited social work program;
Official verification, sent directly from each state licensing authority where a license is or has ever been held. Please contact the state first as a fee may be required for completion of the form;
Verification of employment form documenting completion of 3,000 hours post-master's work experience;
Verification of supervision form documenting completion of 100 hours of work experience under professional supervision by a licensed clinical or certified independent social worker;
An applicant may substitute three (3) years of licensed work experience in the practice of clinical social work in lieu of the work experience and supervision requirements as outlined above. Please arrange for a letter to be submitted directly to this office from the appropriate authority at the organization where the work experience occurred. The letter must indicate that the applicant was employed as a clinical social worker and provide dates of employment.
A report of successful completion of the Clinical Level Examination (ASWB);
A completed application with photograph attached. Applications are only accepted online. Please select this link to apply online The application fee is $315.00.
Examination Registration Procedure
Applicants who need to sit for the examination will be notified by the Department regarding eligibility and will be provided with information on how to register for the examination once all required documentation has been received and reviewed.
The ASWB Candidate Handbook contains information on the examination, registration, admission to the examination and ADA accommodations.
Applicants who use English as a Second Language (ESL) and require special accommodation for the examination should complete the request form, have it notarized and submit it with the completed Connecticut licensing application.
Once an applicant has been determined eligible for examination, the Department will notify the applicant in writing and will notify the ASWB of the candidate’s approval.
Any questions regarding the examination process and the examination fee may be addressed to ASWB.
All supporting documentation should be forwarded from the source to:
Connecticut Department of Public Health
Social Worker Licensure
410 Capitol Ave., MS #12 APP
P.O. Box 340308
Hartford, CT 06134
Phone: (860) 509-7603
Fax: (860) 707-1980
Email: dph.counselorsteam@ct.gov