Complete guide to obtaining your social work license in Pennsylvania, including LBSW, LSW, and LCSW requirements and pathways.
Pennsylvania offers a comprehensive three-tier licensing system accommodating bachelor's and master's level social workers.
Entry-level license for BSW graduates. Allows supervised social work practice in case management, patient assessment, and referrals.
Application: $25 • Exam: $230 • Renewal: $95 (every 2 years)
Master's level license allowing independent non-clinical practice and supervised clinical work. Required step toward LCSW licensure.
Application: $25 • Exam: $230 • Renewal: $95 (every 2 years)
Advanced clinical license allowing independent practice, psychotherapy, diagnosis, and supervision of other social workers.
Application: $90 • Exam: $260 • Renewal: $95 (every 2 years)
Comprehensive pathway from education to independent clinical practice
Graduate from CSWE-accredited MSW program with required field placements and clinical coursework.
2 YearsSubmit application through PALS system and take ASWB Master's exam. Complete child abuse training.
6-8 WeeksWork under qualified LCSW supervision to accumulate 3,000 clinical hours over 2-6 years with required supervision ratios.
2-6 YearsSubmit clinical experience documentation and pass ASWB Clinical exam for independent practice.
6-8 WeeksPennsylvania has specific supervision requirements: 2 hours supervision per 40 hours clinical work, 150 total hours needed, and half must be with an LCSW. Individual supervision must be face-to-face, while group supervision can supplement individual.
Pennsylvania has no formal reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state licensees must meet all PA requirements and may need to retake exams if their ASWB scores don't align with PA standards.
Recent Act 41 legislation may allow endorsement for out-of-state licensees who are active, in good standing, and have practiced for 2 of the last 5 years. Check current requirements as this is a developing area.
Pennsylvania requires specific training: 3 hours child abuse recognition (Act 31), 3 hours ethics, and 1 hour suicide prevention for continuing education. Initial LSW applications also require child abuse training.
You have 6 years from MSW graduation to complete LCSW requirements, with minimum 500 and maximum 1,500 hours per year. Plan your clinical placements carefully to meet these parameters.
(717) 783-1389
P.O. Box 69523
Harrisburg, PA 17106-9523
www.pa.gov
PALS (PA Licensing System)
For applications & renewals