2026 data Florida board official source

Florida 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 Florida data shows for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)s

Becoming a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Florida means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,622 training hours, a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, and 2 years of supervised work experience, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Florida regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Budget $184 to get started, plus $153 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 30 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Florida

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,622 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$184
Renewal Fee
$153
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 Florida licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida?
Florida requires 3622 education/training hours, passing an exam (ASWB Clinical Exam), and an initial fee of $184. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida?
To become a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Florida, you must meet the state's requirements including 3622 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Florida licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Florida 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 Florida licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Florida require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) licensing in Florida. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida?
To stay licensed as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Florida, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $153.

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