Navigate Arizona's three-tier licensing system in the growing Grand Canyon State, now with interstate compact membership for enhanced mobility.
Arizona's three-tier system provides clear progression from entry-level to clinical practice. The state has over 15,000 licensed social workers with growing opportunities in this desert state.
Entry-level license for BSW graduates. Allows generalized non-clinical social work services under supervision. Cannot provide clinical services independently.
Application: $250 • License Issuance: $100 • Renewal: $325 every 2 years • 30 CE hours (3 ethics, 3 cultural competence)
Advanced practice license for MSW graduates. Allows independent non-clinical practice and supervised clinical work. Required prerequisite for LCSW licensure.
Prerequisite for LCSW • Can begin accruing clinical hours immediately • Independent for non-clinical practice
Highest level clinical license allowing independent practice, clinical diagnosis, and psychotherapy without supervision. Can provide all clinical social work services independently.
Pass ASWB Clinical exam • Independent practice • Can supervise LMSWs and LBSWs
Clear progression through three license levels with strong professional development
Graduate from CSWE-accredited BSW (for LBSW) or MSW program (for LMSW/LCSW). Arizona requires CSWE accreditation - verify through their directory.
2-4 YearsSubmit application with $250 fee to AZBBHE. After approval, take appropriate ASWB exam. BSW graduates can take Bachelor's level, MSW graduates can take any level exam.
4-8 WeeksLBSW and LMSW can begin work immediately after licensure. LMSW holders can start accruing supervised clinical experience toward LCSW requirements.
ImmediateLMSW holders seeking clinical licensure must complete 3,200 hours supervised experience within 24 months, including specific hour requirements for direct therapy.
2-3 YearsSubmit LCSW application, pass ASWB Clinical exam, and receive full clinical licensure allowing independent practice and supervision of others.
3-6 MonthsArizona joined the Social Work Licensure Compact in 2024. Multistate licenses are expected to become available in late 2025 or early 2026, allowing practice across all compact member states without additional licensing.
Arizona requires LMSW licensure before applying for LCSW. You cannot apply directly for LCSW even with an MSW degree. This ensures proper professional development and experience.
The 3,200 hours of clinical experience for LCSW must be completed within the past 24 months. This concentrated timeframe ensures current clinical competency and fresh experience.
Of the 3,200 required hours, at least 1,600 must be direct client contact involving psychotherapy. No more than 400 of these can be psychoeducation, and no more than 1,600 can be indirect contact.
All licensees must complete the Arizona Statutes/Regulations Tutorial each two-year license period. This counts toward your 30-hour CE requirement and ensures knowledge of current state laws.
Arizona requires fingerprint background checks through Arizona DPS ($40 fee). If you already have a Fingerprint Clearance Card on file with DPS, you may be exempt from additional fees.
(602) 542-1882
1400 W. Washington St, Suite 230
Phoenix, AZ 85007
azbbhe.us
Member since 2024
Multistate licenses 2025-2026