2026 data Mississippi board official source

Mississippi Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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

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

To practice as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Mississippi, the state licensing board requires 3,297 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the ASWB Clinical Exam examination, 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 Mississippi's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Upfront cost is $127, with renewal running $112 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.

Reciprocity is available: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Mississippi

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,297 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$127
Renewal Fee
$112
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

License Reciprocity

Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Mississippi licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Mississippi?
Mississippi requires 3297 education/training hours, passing an exam (ASWB Clinical Exam), and an initial fee of $127. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Mississippi?
To become a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Mississippi, you must meet the state's requirements including 3297 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Mississippi licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Mississippi from another state?
Mississippi has reciprocity provisions: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Mississippi licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Mississippi require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing?
Yes, Mississippi 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 Mississippi?
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Mississippi must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $112.

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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