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

Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island data shows for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)s

To practice as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Rhode Island, the state licensing board requires 3,743 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 Rhode Island's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

Upfront cost is $205, with renewal running $168 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 Rhode Island

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,743 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$205
Renewal Fee
$168
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 Rhode Island licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Rhode Island licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Rhode Island? ▼
In Rhode Island, the license path calls for 3743 education/training hours, a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, and a $205 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Rhode Island? ▼
Rhode Island licenses licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s who complete its requirements (3743 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Rhode Island licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Rhode Island require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
Yes, Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island? ▼
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Rhode Island must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $168.

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.