FloridaSocial 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.

Supervisor Qualifications

Board-approved qualified LCSW supervisor; must complete supervisor training. Supervisor and intern may use face-to-face electronic methods for up to 50% of sessions but must have in-person contact for at least 50% of interactions.

Supervision Ratio

At least 100 hours of supervision over 1,500 hours of psychotherapy; minimum 1 hour of supervision per 15 hours of client contact; at least 1 hour of supervision every 2 weeks. Group supervision must alternate with individual supervision.

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
• •Official transcripts showing CSWE-accredited MSW
• •Pass background check
• •Complete HIV/AIDS and domestic violence courses if not previously completed

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 Florida. Florida has not enacted the Social Work Licensure Compact, so out-of-state practitioners serving Florida residents must hold a Florida license. Supervision sessions may use telehealth for up to 50% of required interactions.

Licensed social workers in Florida are mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse, neglect, and elder abuse under Florida Statute 39 and 415. 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.