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

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

Missouri sets the entry bar for licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s at 3,338 training hours and a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, with 2 years of supervised work experience expected. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Missouri's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

The initial price tag is $134, and renewal costs $117 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in Missouri

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,338 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$134
Renewal Fee
$117
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 Missouri licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Missouri licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri? ▼
Missouri's requirements cover 3338 hours of education or training, the ASWB Clinical Exam exam, and an initial fee of $134. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri? ▼
To become a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Missouri, you must meet the state's requirements including 3338 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Missouri licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Missouri 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 Missouri licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Missouri require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
Yes, Missouri 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 Missouri? ▼
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Missouri must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $117.

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.