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

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

To practice as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Illinois, the state licensing board requires 3,919 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 Illinois's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Budget $236 to get started, plus $190 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. 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 Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,919 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$236
Renewal Fee
$190
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

Compare & Explore

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois? ▼
Illinois's requirements cover 3919 hours of education or training, the ASWB Clinical Exam exam, and an initial fee of $236. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois? ▼
Illinois licenses licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s who complete its requirements (3919 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Illinois licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Illinois from another state? ▼
For licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Illinois licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Illinois require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
Illinois 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 Illinois? ▼
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Illinois must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $190.

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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