Three-tier social work licensing system designed for the nation's capital, emphasizing urban practice, federal employment opportunities, and diverse multicultural competency requirements.
Three-level progressive system designed for the District's unique federal and urban environment with emphasis on multicultural competency and policy practice.
Bachelor's level license providing entry into professional social work practice with generalist scope and supervised practice requirements in the District.
Entry-level practice • Federal agency eligibility • Urban practice foundation
Master's level license providing independent generalist practice authority with expanded scope and federal employment opportunities.
Independent practice • Federal eligibility • Policy practice capability
Highest level clinical license allowing independent clinical practice, psychotherapy, and mental health treatment with comprehensive authority in the District.
Independent practice • Federal contracting • Urban specialization capability
DC licenses are recognized for federal employment opportunities, providing access to government agencies, congressional staff positions, and federal contractor roles.
Unique opportunities for international social work, diplomatic community services, and cross-cultural practice with embassy and international organization staff.
Strong focus on policy development, analysis, and advocacy work given DC's role as the nation's capital and center of policy-making.
Comprehensive advancement from LSW (bachelor's) to LISW (independent generalist) to LICSW (clinical specialist) with clear federal recognition.
Emphasis on urban social work practice, multicultural competency, and high-pressure professional environment understanding.
3,000 clinical hours for LICSW (lower than many states) facilitating quicker entry into federal clinical positions.
DC social work licenses provide excellent access to federal employment opportunities including agencies, congressional positions, and federal contracting roles.
LICSW requires 3,000 clinical hours (less than many states) and LISW requires 3,000 generalist hours, facilitating federal employment transitions.
DC emphasizes urban practice competencies including multicultural awareness, trauma-informed care, and high-pressure environment understanding.
All social work degrees must be from CSWE-accredited programs. The District maintains high educational standards for federal readiness.
DC offers unique policy practice opportunities including legislative work, think tank positions, and advocacy organization leadership roles.
Health Regulation and Licensing Administration
District of Columbia Government
License Types: LSW, LISW, LICSW
Renewal: Every 2 Years
CE Hours: 40 Required
Clinical Hours: 3,000 for LICSW