Comprehensive three-tier social work licensing system with bachelor's, master's, and clinical levels, designed to serve both urban and rural Idaho communities with flexibility and professional excellence.
Three-tier progressive licensing system providing structured advancement from bachelor's entry through independent clinical practice with rural accommodations.
Bachelor's level license providing entry into professional social work practice with generalist scope and appropriate supervision requirements.
Entry-level practice • Supervision required • Pathway to advanced licensure
Master's level license providing advanced generalist practice authority with expanded scope and potential independent practice in non-clinical areas.
Independent authority • Non-clinical practice • Supervision capability
Highest level clinical license allowing independent clinical practice, psychotherapy, and mental health treatment with comprehensive authority.
Independent practice • Clinical supervision • Private practice capability
Comprehensive advancement from LSW (bachelor's) to LMSW (advanced generalist) to LCSW (clinical specialist) with clear pathways.
Idaho accommodates rural practice needs with flexible supervision arrangements and understanding of geographic challenges.
4,000 clinical hours with 100 hours supervision ensures thorough preparation for independent clinical practice.
All degrees must be from CSWE-accredited programs, ensuring consistent educational quality and professional preparation.
Biennial renewal with 40 CE hours supports ongoing professional development and competency maintenance.
Clear supervision requirements with qualified professionals providing guidance and professional development support.
Idaho requires all social work degrees to be from CSWE-accredited programs. Degrees from related fields or non-accredited programs are not accepted.
LCSW requires 4,000 post-MSW clinical hours over minimum 2 years, plus 100 hours individual supervision. Plan clinical experience carefully.
Maintain detailed logs of all clinical hours and supervision. Idaho has strict documentation requirements for license advancement.
Each license level provides expanded practice authority. LMSW allows advanced generalist practice, while LCSW provides full clinical authority.
Clinical supervisors must be LCSWs or equivalent licensed professionals with appropriate experience and training.
Department of Self-Governing Agencies
State of Idaho
License Types: LSW, LMSW, LCSW
Renewal: Every 2 Years
CE Hours: 40 Required
Clinical Hours: 4,000 for LCSW