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

New Mexico Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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

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

Becoming a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in New Mexico means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,770 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. New Mexico regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Budget $210 to get started, plus $171 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. 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.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in New Mexico

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,770 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$210
Renewal Fee
$171
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 Mexico licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New Mexico licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New Mexico? ▼
New Mexico's requirements cover 3770 hours of education or training, the ASWB Clinical Exam exam, and an initial fee of $210. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New Mexico? ▼
New Mexico licenses licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s who complete its requirements (3770 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the New Mexico licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to New Mexico 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 Mexico licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does New Mexico require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
New Mexico does require a background check before issuing a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New Mexico? ▼
To stay licensed as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in New Mexico, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $171.

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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