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

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

To practice as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Wisconsin, the state licensing board requires 3,324 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 Wisconsin's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Master of Social Work (MSW)".

The initial price tag is $132, and renewal costs $116 every 2 years. 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.

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

Licensing Requirements in Wisconsin

Education / Training Hours
Master of Social Work (MSW)
3,324 hours
Exam Requirement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$132
Renewal Fee
$116
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 Wisconsin licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Wisconsin licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Wisconsin? ▼
In Wisconsin, the license path calls for 3324 education/training hours, a passing score on ASWB Clinical Exam, and a $132 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Wisconsin? ▼
Certification as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Wisconsin means clearing the state's checklist: 3324 hours of education plus 2 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Wisconsin licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license to Wisconsin from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for licensed clinical social worker (lcsw)s nationally works like this: Social Work Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Wisconsin. Verify the specifics with the Wisconsin licensing board.
Does Wisconsin require a background check for Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensing? ▼
Yes, Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin? ▼
To stay licensed as a licensed clinical social worker (lcsw) in Wisconsin, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $116.

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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