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

North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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

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

To practice as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in North Carolina, the state licensing board requires 3,446 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 North Carolina's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

The initial price tag is $153, and renewal costs $131 every 2 years. 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.

On reciprocity, licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s should know: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in North Carolina

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,446 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$153
Renewal Fee
$131
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 North Carolina licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Carolina licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in North Carolina? ▼
North Carolina requires 3446 education/training hours, passing an exam (ASWB Clinical Exam), and an initial fee of $153. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in North Carolina? ▼
North Carolina licenses licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s who complete its requirements (3446 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the North Carolina licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to North Carolina from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s nationally works like this: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into North Carolina. Verify the specifics with the North Carolina licensing board.
Does North Carolina 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 North Carolina. 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 North Carolina? ▼
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in North Carolina must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $131.

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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