Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) / Alabama
2026 data Alabama board official source

Alabama Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Provides mental health counseling. Requires MSW degree and clinical hours.

What the Alabama data shows for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)s

To practice as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Alabama, the state licensing board requires 3,311 documented education or training hours, a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, and 2 years of supervised work experience. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Alabama's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

The initial price tag is $129, and renewal costs $114 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s should know: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Alabama

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,311 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$129
Renewal Fee
$114
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

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Compare all states for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) All Alabama licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Alabama licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Alabama? ▼
In Alabama, the license path calls for 3311 education/training hours, a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, and a $129 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Alabama? ▼
Alabama licenses licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s who complete its requirements (3311 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Alabama licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Alabama from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Alabama licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Alabama require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
Alabama does require a background check before issuing a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Alabama? ▼
To stay licensed as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Alabama, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $114.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

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