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

Maryland Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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

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

To practice as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Maryland, the state licensing board requires 3,662 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 Maryland's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Budget $191 to get started, plus $158 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 Maryland

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,662 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$191
Renewal Fee
$158
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 Maryland licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Maryland licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Maryland? ▼
Maryland's requirements cover 3662 hours of education or training, the ASWB Clinical Exam exam, and an initial fee of $191. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Maryland? ▼
To become a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Maryland, you must meet the state's requirements including 3662 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Maryland licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Maryland 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 Maryland licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Maryland 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 Maryland. 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 Maryland? ▼
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Maryland must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $158.

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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