District of ColumbiaSocial Worker License Requirements

Social work education must come from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The MSW is required for clinical licensure (LCSW). Field placement provides supervised clinical experience integral to social work training.

Exam Provider

Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)

Available ASWB Exam Levels

Exam Details

Retake Policy

Candidates may retake the exam after a 90-day waiting period.

Supervisor Qualifications

LICSW or LISW in good standing; supervisor must be approved by the Board of Social Work

Supervision Ratio

1 hour of individual or group supervision per 32 hours of work experience

Clinical social work licensure (LCSW) requires post-master's supervised experience under a qualified clinical supervisor. Supervision must include both direct client contact hours and face-to-face supervision meetings.

Mandatory CE Topics

Regulatory Board

Social worker licenses must be renewed on schedule. Most states require continuing education covering topics such as ethics, cultural competency, suicide prevention, and clinical practice updates. Some states have specific mandatory CE topics that must be completed each renewal cycle.

Additional Requirements for Transfer

• •Submit application and fees
• •Verification of out-of-state license in good standing
• •Criminal background check via fingerprint scan
• •Three reference forms
• •Official transcripts
• •Two recent passport photos

The Social Work Licensure Compact allows eligible social workers to practice across member states. States not in the compact may offer license by endorsement for out-of-state applicants with equivalent credentials and experience.

Telehealth permitted within DC. DC has not enacted the Social Work Licensure Compact, so interstate telehealth requires licensure in both jurisdictions. Out-of-state practitioners serving DC residents must hold a DC license.

Licensed social workers in the District of Columbia are mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse, neglect, and elder abuse. Failure to report can result in disciplinary action and criminal penalties.

Social work scope of practice includes title protection, telehealth regulations, and mandatory reporting obligations. Clinical social workers (LCSWs) can independently diagnose and treat mental health conditions in most states.