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Delaware Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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

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

Delaware's path to licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) licensure runs through 3,554 hours of approved instruction, 2 years of supervised work experience, and a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Delaware folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Upfront cost is $172, with renewal running $144 on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s, the reciprocity picture is: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Delaware

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,554 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$172
Renewal Fee
$144
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Delaware licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Delaware?
Delaware's requirements cover 3554 hours of education or training, the ASWB Clinical Exam exam, and an initial fee of $172. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Delaware?
Certification as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Delaware means clearing the state's checklist: 3554 hours of education plus 2 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Delaware licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Delaware from another state?
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Delaware licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Delaware require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing?
Yes, Delaware requires a criminal background check as part of the licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Delaware?
To stay licensed as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Delaware, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $144.

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