2026 data Louisiana board official source

Louisiana Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

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

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

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

Becoming a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Louisiana means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,730 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. Louisiana regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Budget $203 to get started, plus $166 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 Louisiana

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,730 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$203
Renewal Fee
$166
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 Louisiana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the license path calls for 3730 education/training hours, a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, and a $203 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Louisiana?
Louisiana licenses licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s who complete its requirements (3730 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Louisiana licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Louisiana 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 Louisiana. 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 Louisiana?
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Louisiana must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $166.

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