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

Washington Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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

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

Becoming a licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Washington means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,811 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. Washington regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

The initial price tag is $217, and renewal costs $176 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s, the reciprocity picture is: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Washington

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,811 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$217
Renewal Fee
$176
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 Washington licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Washington licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Washington? ▼
Washington's requirements cover 3811 hours of education or training, the ASWB Clinical Exam exam, and an initial fee of $217. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Washington? ▼
Washington licenses licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s who complete its requirements (3811 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Washington licensing board.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Washington from another state? ▼
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Washington licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Washington require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
Yes, Washington 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 Washington? ▼
Licensed licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s in Washington must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $176.

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.