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

New Jersey Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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

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

New Jersey's path to licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) licensure runs through 3,649 hours of approved instruction, 2 years of supervised work experience, and a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. New Jersey folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Upfront cost is $189, with renewal running $156 on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in New Jersey

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,649 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$189
Renewal Fee
$156
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years

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Compare all states for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) All New Jersey licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New Jersey licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New Jersey? ▼
New Jersey requires 3649 education/training hours, passing an exam (ASWB Clinical Exam), and an initial fee of $189. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New Jersey? ▼
To become a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in New Jersey, you must meet the state's requirements including 3649 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New Jersey licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does New Jersey 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 New Jersey. 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 New Jersey? ▼
New Jersey ties continued licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $156 renewal fee.

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.