There are several answers to the question of how to get a social worker license, one of which is that some people may not need one. Licensure may or may not be required depending on where people live and what level of social work they wish to practice. It would be nearly impossible to describe all of the factors that go into determining whether or not a social worker license is required in each area. For most people, the best way to figure out how to get a license is to start contacting government agencies.
In the United States, for example, a social worker’s license is determined at the state level. Different states have different rules, and some of them aren’t that different from one another. Those seeking to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) must usually meet similar criteria.
These requirements include having an MSW, or master’s degree in social work, as well as having completed a certain number of practicum hours, around 3000, and passing examinations. People can obtain their LCSW after meeting these requirements, which are determined the state. This usually allows them to practice as therapists, though if they move from one area to another, they may need to register in a new region, especially if they move to a different state.
Other types of social worker licenses may be required for certain types of work. A person pursuing an LCSW who has not completed all practicum work, for example, may be able to obtain a temporary license that allows them to practice and complete practicum work. Even if you have an MSW but don’t want to practice therapy, you may need a social worker license. Some states have a license called the LM, or licensed master social worker, that allows people to work in a variety of high-level social work positions throughout the state.
A bachelor’s degree in social work can be used to obtain a social worker license. This is sometimes referred to as an LS, or licensed social worker. Passing tests, passing background checks, and being able to provide proof of a degree or experience are all possible requirements. If you work as a social worker for a variety of agencies, you may be able to get some form of licensure even if you don’t have a degree.
It can be perplexing to consider all of the social worker license options, especially since they vary location and the possibilities for working without a license in different areas are difficult to predict. Rather than relying on guesswork, people should seek advice from regional licensing agencies. If people are still in school, the school of social work is a good resource. The majority of these are up to date on what is required for licensure and what each license allows a social worker to do.