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

Kentucky Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

PlainCredential home → About this data

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

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

Becoming a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Kentucky means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,270 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. Kentucky regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Budget $122 to get started, plus $109 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.

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

Licensing Requirements in Kentucky

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,270 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$122
Renewal Fee
$109
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 Kentucky licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Kentucky licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Kentucky? ▼
In Kentucky, the license path calls for 3270 education/training hours, a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, and a $122 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Kentucky? ▼
To become a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Kentucky, you must meet the state's requirements including 3270 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Kentucky licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Kentucky require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) licensing process in Kentucky. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Kentucky? ▼
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Kentucky must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $109.

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.