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

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

Becoming a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Michigan means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,473 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. Michigan regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Budget $158 to get started, plus $134 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.

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

Licensing Requirements in Michigan

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,473 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$158
Renewal Fee
$134
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 Michigan licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Michigan licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Michigan? ▼
Michigan's requirements cover 3473 hours of education or training, the ASWB Clinical Exam exam, and an initial fee of $158. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Michigan? ▼
To become a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Michigan, you must meet the state's requirements including 3473 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Michigan licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Michigan 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 Michigan licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Michigan require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
Yes, Michigan requires a criminal background check as part of the licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Michigan? ▼
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Michigan must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $134.

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.