North CarolinaSocial 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

LCSW with at least 2 years post-LCSW clinical social work practice; at least 1 hour supervision per 30 hours clinical practice; 100 hours total supervision (max 25 group)

Supervision Ratio

100 hours supervision (1:30 ratio; max 25 group)

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 $145 fee
• •Verification of out-of-state license in good standing
• •Pass background check

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. Compact member.

Licensed social workers in North Carolina 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.