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

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

Ohio sets the entry bar for licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s at 3,514 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 Ohio's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

The initial price tag is $165, and renewal costs $139 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

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

Licensing Requirements in Ohio

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,514 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$165
Renewal Fee
$139
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 Ohio licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Ohio licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Ohio? ▼
In Ohio, the license path calls for 3514 education/training hours, a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, and a $165 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Ohio? ▼
Certification as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Ohio means clearing the state's checklist: 3514 hours of education plus 2 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Ohio licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Ohio from another state? ▼
For licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Ohio licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Ohio 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 Ohio. 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 Ohio? ▼
Ohio ties continued licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $139 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.