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Texas Social Work — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

emergency temporary license

Temporary authorization limited to the designated disaster area and the duration specified in the rule.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council / Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Emergency temporary licensure during a declared disaster
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Disaster
The Governor must declare a disaster and suspend relevant regulatory provisions; the Executive Director must determine emergency licensing is necessary in the disaster area.
Duration
Expires on termination of the suspension or disaster, whichever occurs first; practice is limited to the designated disaster area.
Existing license
Submit the prescribed application and verification of active out-of-jurisdiction social work licensure, certification, or registration in good standing without current disciplinary action.
Fee
No application or issuance fee is charged.
Practice
Display the emergency license or provide license-verification notice, notify clients of the complaint process, and comply with all applicable Council rules.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)

A baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council / Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Renewal of preserved emeritus status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing status
Must have held emeritus status on September 1, 2020 and remain outside paid full- or part-time employment without returning the license to active status.
Irreversibility
Once the emeritus license expires or changes status, emeritus status cannot be reinstated.
Renewal
Renew online biennially; no renewal fee or CE is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Bachelors examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Placing an unrestricted license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Elect inactive status online and pay the applicable fee.
Eligible license
An unrestricted active or delinquent license; an unresolved complaint prevents electing inactive status under §882.21(b)(5).
Practice
No professional practice is allowed on inactive status; CE is not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Do not practice on inactive status; CE is not required.
Renewal
Complete the online inactive renewal requirements and fee each renewal period; the license expires if neither inactive renewal nor reactivation occurs, except the rule’s pending-complaint provision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within the statutory period
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Delinquency
May renew within the statutory period of less than one year, with the late renewal fee; do not practice while delinquent. A long-expired license must follow reinstatement.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Military applicant licensure — other jurisdiction
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Marriage
A military spouse submits proof of marriage to a military service member.
Military eligibility
A verified military service member, military veteran, or military spouse meeting this eligibility: A current license in good standing in another jurisdiction with a similar scope of practice.
Military restrictions
No waiver where a military service member or veteran has a restricted license or disqualifying criminal history.
Military waiver
The Executive Director may waive other prerequisites following consultation, but not §882.60(b) eligibility, jurisprudence, or the fingerprint check; military training credit under §781.419 does not replace an examination requirement.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Bachelors examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Military applicant licensure — prior texas
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Marriage
A military spouse submits proof of marriage to a military service member.
Military eligibility
A verified military service member, military veteran, or military spouse meeting this eligibility: Held the license sought in Texas within the five years before application.
Military restrictions
No waiver where a military service member or veteran has a restricted license or disqualifying criminal history.
Military waiver
The Executive Director may waive other prerequisites following consultation, but not §882.60(b) eligibility, jurisprudence, or the fingerprint check; military training credit under §781.419 does not replace an examination requirement.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Bachelors examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Active duty military renewal or timely return from delinquency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active duty
Provide official active-duty verification and request the fee and CE waiver before each renewal date.
Return from delinquency
An eligible former active-duty licensee may request reinstatement or return to active status within two years of delinquency under §883.10(b).
Waiver
The rule waives renewal fees and CE for the eligible renewal period; it identifies no examination for this route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure based on out of state credentials and verified examination scores
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE.
Exam retake
A person who passed the same licensing examination in another jurisdiction is not required to retake it; request transfer or official verification of the passing score.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National accreditation credentials
The discretionary statutory independent-practice pathway in §505.3575(a)(2) requires Council assessment of experience and competence, Texas jurisprudence passage, good standing, and national-accreditation credentials the Council determines sufficiently protect public safety; the implementing §781.418(a)(2) also identifies the appropriate licensing exam.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Bachelors examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Out of state license
Submit verification of all current or former social work licenses. Good standing, sufficient experience and competence, and the applicable licensing exam passing score must be established under §781.418.
Pre 1986 waiver
Under 22 TAC §781.412(c), the Council may waive the examination on written petition for a valid out-of-state certificate or license issued before January 1, 1986. The currently offered exam remains a leaf and the waiver is an applicant condition.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Discretionary licensure of an independently licensed out of state practitioner
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Exam verification
The implementing §781.418(a)(2) requires passage of the licensing examination appropriate to the Texas category and Texas jurisprudence. A previously passed same licensing exam is not retaken; verified passing scores and applicable waivers remain applicant conditions.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National accreditation credentials
Present credentials obtained from a national accreditation organization that the Council determines sufficient to minimize risk to public safety.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Out of state independent license
Currently licensed in good standing in another state to independently practice social work; the Council must assess sufficient experience and competence under §505.3575(a)(2).
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Supervision
The Council may consider supervision received in another jurisdiction when that jurisdiction would consider it for licensing or certification.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Full licensure following a provisional social worker license
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Conversion processing
The statutory processing period is 180 days from provisional issuance or the issuance of licenses after the next examinations, whichever is later; a reciprocity waiver is discretionary only where a state reciprocity agreement exists. The Board FAQ states Texas has no such agreements.
Education
A baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Implementation notice
The Board application FAQ states: "No. Applicants must meet all licensure requirements to be eligible for Texas licensure." in response to whether a provisional social worker license is offered. The statutory conversion route is retained; applicants must confirm the Board’s treatment of any existing provisional license.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Bachelors examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Provisional status
The applicant must already hold a provisional social worker license issued under §505.358; §505.359 governs full-license conversion.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Reactivation after four or more years inactive
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the renewal fee, and provide the required completed CE.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive four years or more.
Jurisprudence exception
Pass the relevant jurisprudence exam with the minimum acceptable score, unless another active license is held within the same profession.
Reactivation after less than four years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the applicable renewal fee, and provide completed CE required for renewal.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive less than four years.
Schedule
Standard renewal requirements apply; reactivation within 60 days of the renewal date meets the next period’s renewal requirements as stated in §882.21(b)(6).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of retired, revoked, or resigned full license
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
An existing full license that is retired, revoked, or resigned.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Reinstatement after one year or more expired
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
A full license expired for one year or more.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Statutory reexamination
§507.255(d) requires reexamination and original-licensure qualifications; the relevant ASWB exam and Texas jurisprudence are retained. The Board’s reinstatement page lists the jurisprudence exam and other documents without listing an ASWB retake; the higher-ranked statute controls this route.
Return of former Texas license after practice in another jurisdiction
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
Previously licensed in Texas, moved elsewhere, and currently licensed and practicing in the other jurisdiction for the two years before application.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Reexamination
§507.256 permits renewal without reexamination. The Council’s implementing reinstatement instructions require the Texas jurisprudence exam; this statutory permission is not treated as an automatic waiver of that implemented requirement.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Biennial active license renewal
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Retiring a license in good standing
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the online retirement application; no practice is permitted under a retired license.
Eligible status
Active, inactive, or delinquent, with no pending complaint or restricted license.
Return to practice
Returning to practice requires reinstatement, rather than a new initial license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regular licensure after passage of examinations on a temporary license
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE.
Existing temporary license
Hold the temporary license in this same social work category and pass the designated licensing examination. The holder remains temporarily licensed until the Council issues the regular license or the temporary license expires.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Bachelors examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker with Independent Practice Recognition (LBSW-IPR)

Non-clinical independent practice recognition on the existing LBSW license.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council / Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Renewal of preserved emeritus status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing status
Must have held emeritus status on September 1, 2020 and remain outside paid full- or part-time employment without returning the license to active status.
Irreversibility
Once the emeritus license expires or changes status, emeritus status cannot be reinstated.
Renewal
Renew online biennially; no renewal fee or CE is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placing an unrestricted license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Elect inactive status online and pay the applicable fee.
Eligible license
An unrestricted active or delinquent license; an unresolved complaint prevents electing inactive status under §882.21(b)(5).
Practice
No professional practice is allowed on inactive status; CE is not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Do not practice on inactive status; CE is not required.
Renewal
Complete the online inactive renewal requirements and fee each renewal period; the license expires if neither inactive renewal nor reactivation occurs, except the rule’s pending-complaint provision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within the statutory period
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Delinquency
May renew within the statutory period of less than one year, with the late renewal fee; do not practice while delinquent. A long-expired license must follow reinstatement.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Active duty military renewal or timely return from delinquency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active duty
Provide official active-duty verification and request the fee and CE waiver before each renewal date.
Return from delinquency
An eligible former active-duty licensee may request reinstatement or return to active status within two years of delinquency under §883.10(b).
Waiver
The rule waives renewal fees and CE for the eligible renewal period; it identifies no examination for this route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation after four or more years inactive
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the renewal fee, and provide the required completed CE.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive four years or more.
Jurisprudence exception
Pass the relevant jurisprudence exam with the minimum acceptable score, unless another active license is held within the same profession.
Reactivation after less than four years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the applicable renewal fee, and provide completed CE required for renewal.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive less than four years.
Schedule
Standard renewal requirements apply; reactivation within 60 days of the renewal date meets the next period’s renewal requirements as stated in §882.21(b)(6).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Non clinical independent practice specialty recognition
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Existing license
Must hold a current Texas LBSW license.
Experience
3,000 hours of supervised social work experience over at least two years, or equivalent experience in another jurisdiction.
Jurisprudence
Complete the social work jurisprudence examination and submit proof with the application; the certificate must satisfy the six-month application window.
Scope
Recognition authorizes independent non-clinical practice. An LBSW-IPR reclassified to LMSW must complete the LMSW-IPR requirements; hours before LMSW issuance do not count toward LMSW-IPR.
Supervision
At least 100 supervision hours with a supervisor qualified under §781.406(b), using a signed plan and verification forms; maintain employment and evaluation documentation.
Reinstatement of retired, revoked, or resigned full license
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
An existing full license that is retired, revoked, or resigned.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Reinstatement after one year or more expired
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
A full license expired for one year or more.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Statutory reexamination
§507.255(d) requires reexamination and original-licensure qualifications; the relevant ASWB exam and Texas jurisprudence are retained. The Board’s reinstatement page lists the jurisprudence exam and other documents without listing an ASWB retake; the higher-ranked statute controls this route.
Return of former Texas license after practice in another jurisdiction
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
Previously licensed in Texas, moved elsewhere, and currently licensed and practicing in the other jurisdiction for the two years before application.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Reexamination
§507.256 permits renewal without reexamination. The Council’s implementing reinstatement instructions require the Texas jurisprudence exam; this statutory permission is not treated as an automatic waiver of that implemented requirement.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Biennial active license renewal
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Retiring a license in good standing
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the online retirement application; no practice is permitted under a retired license.
Eligible status
Active, inactive, or delinquent, with no pending complaint or restricted license.
Return to practice
Returning to practice requires reinstatement, rather than a new initial license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Supervisor Status (LBSW-IPR-S)

Council-approved supervision status on an existing social work license.

Licensing authority: Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Restoring supervisor status after discipline
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Meet the disciplinary order, restore good standing, take a new 40-hour supervisor course no earlier than execution of the order, and submit a new application.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LBSW-IPR-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial supervisor recognition
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LBSW-IPR-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regaining surrendered supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LBSW-IPR-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).
Surrendered status
Reapply and meet the current supervisor requirements after surrendering supervisor status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Supervision ce
Six CE hours in supervision per renewal period, countable toward the underlying license’s total CE; maintaining the underlying license follows its own renewal route.
Underlying license
Maintain an active underlying license and renew supervisor status with the biennial license renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

LBSW-S

Council-approved supervision status on an existing social work license.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Restoring supervisor status after discipline
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Meet the disciplinary order, restore good standing, take a new 40-hour supervisor course no earlier than execution of the order, and submit a new application.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LBSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial supervisor recognition
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LBSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regaining surrendered supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LBSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).
Surrendered status
Reapply and meet the current supervisor requirements after surrendering supervisor status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Supervision ce
Six CE hours in supervision per renewal period, countable toward the underlying license’s total CE; maintaining the underlying license follows its own renewal route.
Underlying license
Maintain an active underlying license and renew supervisor status with the biennial license renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) — Temporary

A temporary LBSW license pending the appropriate examinations.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Temporary licensure before examination
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Board implementation
22 TAC §781.411 and the Board FAQ state the temporary license lasts six months or until the first appropriate ASWB exam attempt, whichever occurs first, and requires all other licensing qualifications; the Board also generally asks for a jurisprudence certificate with an application.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE.
Examination timing
§505.357 authorizes temporary issuance before licensing and jurisprudence passage, with validity until the first appropriate examination results are available. The later examination requirements remain leaves.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Passing the ASWB Bachelors examination is not required before applying for this temporary license. Under 22 TAC §781.411(a)–(c), temporary issuance is available before the licensing examination; the holder must take the designated examination within six months of issuance, and temporary validity ends at the appropriate examination attempt or the end of that six-month period. The Bachelors examination leaf records the subsequent examination requirement, not a pre-issuance passing prerequisite.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Temporary eligibility
The applicant must never have held a temporary license for the same category; LCSW and specialty-recognition applicants are ineligible under §781.411(i).
Temporary practice
Display the license and use the word Temporary with the licensed title; cease practice and return the certificate after examination failure; temporary status does not begin supervision accrual toward independent practice.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

A CSWE-accredited doctoral or master’s social work degree, or an acceptable accredited doctoral social work degree, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.

Licensing authority: Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Renewal of preserved emeritus status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing status
Must have held emeritus status on September 1, 2020 and remain outside paid full- or part-time employment without returning the license to active status.
Irreversibility
Once the emeritus license expires or changes status, emeritus status cannot be reinstated.
Renewal
Renew online biennially; no renewal fee or CE is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Clinical experience
At least 3,000 hours of supervised professional clinical experience over at least 24 months, including at least 100 supervision hours with a qualified supervisor; equivalent out-of-jurisdiction experience and alternate verification may be accepted under §781.401(a)(1).
Clinical supervision
A Texas LMSW accrues clinical experience under a signed LCSW supervision plan and submits supervision verification. A substantially equivalent license held in good standing in another jurisdiction for the year immediately preceding application satisfies the experience requirement.
Education
A CSWE-accredited doctoral or master’s social work degree, or an acceptable accredited doctoral social work degree, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Placing an unrestricted license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Elect inactive status online and pay the applicable fee.
Eligible license
An unrestricted active or delinquent license; an unresolved complaint prevents electing inactive status under §882.21(b)(5).
Practice
No professional practice is allowed on inactive status; CE is not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Do not practice on inactive status; CE is not required.
Renewal
Complete the online inactive renewal requirements and fee each renewal period; the license expires if neither inactive renewal nor reactivation occurs, except the rule’s pending-complaint provision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within the statutory period
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Delinquency
May renew within the statutory period of less than one year, with the late renewal fee; do not practice while delinquent. A long-expired license must follow reinstatement.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Military applicant licensure — other jurisdiction
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Clinical experience
At least 3,000 hours of supervised professional clinical experience over at least 24 months, including at least 100 supervision hours with a qualified supervisor; equivalent out-of-jurisdiction experience and alternate verification may be accepted under §781.401(a)(1).
Clinical supervision
A Texas LMSW accrues clinical experience under a signed LCSW supervision plan and submits supervision verification. A substantially equivalent license held in good standing in another jurisdiction for the year immediately preceding application satisfies the experience requirement.
Education
A CSWE-accredited doctoral or master’s social work degree, or an acceptable accredited doctoral social work degree, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Marriage
A military spouse submits proof of marriage to a military service member.
Military eligibility
A verified military service member, military veteran, or military spouse meeting this eligibility: A current license in good standing in another jurisdiction with a similar scope of practice.
Military restrictions
No waiver where a military service member or veteran has a restricted license or disqualifying criminal history.
Military waiver
The Executive Director may waive other prerequisites following consultation, but not §882.60(b) eligibility, jurisprudence, or the fingerprint check; military training credit under §781.419 does not replace an examination requirement.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Military applicant licensure — prior texas
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Clinical experience
At least 3,000 hours of supervised professional clinical experience over at least 24 months, including at least 100 supervision hours with a qualified supervisor; equivalent out-of-jurisdiction experience and alternate verification may be accepted under §781.401(a)(1).
Clinical supervision
A Texas LMSW accrues clinical experience under a signed LCSW supervision plan and submits supervision verification. A substantially equivalent license held in good standing in another jurisdiction for the year immediately preceding application satisfies the experience requirement.
Education
A CSWE-accredited doctoral or master’s social work degree, or an acceptable accredited doctoral social work degree, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Marriage
A military spouse submits proof of marriage to a military service member.
Military eligibility
A verified military service member, military veteran, or military spouse meeting this eligibility: Held the license sought in Texas within the five years before application.
Military restrictions
No waiver where a military service member or veteran has a restricted license or disqualifying criminal history.
Military waiver
The Executive Director may waive other prerequisites following consultation, but not §882.60(b) eligibility, jurisprudence, or the fingerprint check; military training credit under §781.419 does not replace an examination requirement.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Active duty military renewal or timely return from delinquency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active duty
Provide official active-duty verification and request the fee and CE waiver before each renewal date.
Return from delinquency
An eligible former active-duty licensee may request reinstatement or return to active status within two years of delinquency under §883.10(b).
Waiver
The rule waives renewal fees and CE for the eligible renewal period; it identifies no examination for this route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure based on out of state credentials and verified examination scores
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Clinical experience
At least 3,000 hours of supervised professional clinical experience over at least 24 months, including at least 100 supervision hours with a qualified supervisor; equivalent out-of-jurisdiction experience and alternate verification may be accepted under §781.401(a)(1).
Clinical supervision
A Texas LMSW accrues clinical experience under a signed LCSW supervision plan and submits supervision verification. A substantially equivalent license held in good standing in another jurisdiction for the year immediately preceding application satisfies the experience requirement.
Education
A CSWE-accredited doctoral or master’s social work degree, or an acceptable accredited doctoral social work degree, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Exam retake
A person who passed the same licensing examination in another jurisdiction is not required to retake it; request transfer or official verification of the passing score.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National accreditation credentials
The discretionary statutory independent-practice pathway in §505.3575(a)(2) requires Council assessment of experience and competence, Texas jurisprudence passage, good standing, and national-accreditation credentials the Council determines sufficiently protect public safety; the implementing §781.418(a)(2) also identifies the appropriate licensing exam.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Out of state license
Submit verification of all current or former social work licenses. Good standing, sufficient experience and competence, and the applicable licensing exam passing score must be established under §781.418.
Pre 1986 waiver
Under 22 TAC §781.412(c), the Council may waive the examination on written petition for a valid out-of-state certificate or license issued before January 1, 1986. The currently offered exam remains a leaf and the waiver is an applicant condition.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Discretionary licensure of an independently licensed out of state practitioner
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Exam verification
The implementing §781.418(a)(2) requires passage of the licensing examination appropriate to the Texas category and Texas jurisprudence. A previously passed same licensing exam is not retaken; verified passing scores and applicable waivers remain applicant conditions.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National accreditation credentials
Present credentials obtained from a national accreditation organization that the Council determines sufficient to minimize risk to public safety.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Out of state independent license
Currently licensed in good standing in another state to independently practice social work; the Council must assess sufficient experience and competence under §505.3575(a)(2).
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Supervision
The Council may consider supervision received in another jurisdiction when that jurisdiction would consider it for licensing or certification.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Full licensure following a provisional social worker license
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Clinical experience
At least 3,000 hours of supervised professional clinical experience over at least 24 months, including at least 100 supervision hours with a qualified supervisor; equivalent out-of-jurisdiction experience and alternate verification may be accepted under §781.401(a)(1).
Clinical supervision
A Texas LMSW accrues clinical experience under a signed LCSW supervision plan and submits supervision verification. A substantially equivalent license held in good standing in another jurisdiction for the year immediately preceding application satisfies the experience requirement.
Conversion processing
The statutory processing period is 180 days from provisional issuance or the issuance of licenses after the next examinations, whichever is later; a reciprocity waiver is discretionary only where a state reciprocity agreement exists. The Board FAQ states Texas has no such agreements.
Education
A CSWE-accredited doctoral or master’s social work degree, or an acceptable accredited doctoral social work degree, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Implementation notice
The Board application FAQ states: "No. Applicants must meet all licensure requirements to be eligible for Texas licensure." in response to whether a provisional social worker license is offered. The statutory conversion route is retained; applicants must confirm the Board’s treatment of any existing provisional license.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Provisional status
The applicant must already hold a provisional social worker license issued under §505.358; §505.359 governs full-license conversion.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Reactivation after four or more years inactive
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the renewal fee, and provide the required completed CE.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive four years or more.
Jurisprudence exception
Pass the relevant jurisprudence exam with the minimum acceptable score, unless another active license is held within the same profession.
Reactivation after less than four years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the applicable renewal fee, and provide completed CE required for renewal.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive less than four years.
Schedule
Standard renewal requirements apply; reactivation within 60 days of the renewal date meets the next period’s renewal requirements as stated in §882.21(b)(6).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reclassification from LMSW
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Clinical experience
At least 3,000 hours of supervised professional clinical experience over at least 24 months, including at least 100 supervision hours with a qualified supervisor; equivalent out-of-jurisdiction experience and alternate verification may be accepted under §781.401(a)(1).
Clinical supervision
A Texas LMSW accrues clinical experience under a signed LCSW supervision plan and submits supervision verification. A substantially equivalent license held in good standing in another jurisdiction for the year immediately preceding application satisfies the experience requirement.
Education
A CSWE-accredited doctoral or master’s social work degree, or an acceptable accredited doctoral social work degree, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Existing license
A current Texas LMSW seeking LCSW classification after completing clinical supervision.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
License continuity
Reclassification preserves the license number, expiration date, and renewal period; existing CE continues to count during that period.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Clinical examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Reinstatement of retired, revoked, or resigned full license
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
An existing full license that is retired, revoked, or resigned.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Reinstatement after one year or more expired
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
A full license expired for one year or more.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Statutory reexamination
§507.255(d) requires reexamination and original-licensure qualifications; the relevant ASWB exam and Texas jurisprudence are retained. The Board’s reinstatement page lists the jurisprudence exam and other documents without listing an ASWB retake; the higher-ranked statute controls this route.
Return of former Texas license after practice in another jurisdiction
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
Previously licensed in Texas, moved elsewhere, and currently licensed and practicing in the other jurisdiction for the two years before application.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Reexamination
§507.256 permits renewal without reexamination. The Council’s implementing reinstatement instructions require the Texas jurisprudence exam; this statutory permission is not treated as an automatic waiver of that implemented requirement.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Biennial active license renewal
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Retiring a license in good standing
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the online retirement application; no practice is permitted under a retired license.
Eligible status
Active, inactive, or delinquent, with no pending complaint or restricted license.
Return to practice
Returning to practice requires reinstatement, rather than a new initial license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Supervisor Status (LCSW-S)

Council-approved supervision status on an existing social work license.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Restoring supervisor status after discipline
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Meet the disciplinary order, restore good standing, take a new 40-hour supervisor course no earlier than execution of the order, and submit a new application.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LCSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial supervisor recognition
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LCSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regaining surrendered supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LCSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).
Surrendered status
Reapply and meet the current supervisor requirements after surrendering supervisor status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Supervision ce
Six CE hours in supervision per renewal period, countable toward the underlying license’s total CE; maintaining the underlying license follows its own renewal route.
Underlying license
Maintain an active underlying license and renew supervisor status with the biennial license renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council / Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Renewal of preserved emeritus status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing status
Must have held emeritus status on September 1, 2020 and remain outside paid full- or part-time employment without returning the license to active status.
Irreversibility
Once the emeritus license expires or changes status, emeritus status cannot be reinstated.
Renewal
Renew online biennially; no renewal fee or CE is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Masters examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Placing an unrestricted license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Elect inactive status online and pay the applicable fee.
Eligible license
An unrestricted active or delinquent license; an unresolved complaint prevents electing inactive status under §882.21(b)(5).
Practice
No professional practice is allowed on inactive status; CE is not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Do not practice on inactive status; CE is not required.
Renewal
Complete the online inactive renewal requirements and fee each renewal period; the license expires if neither inactive renewal nor reactivation occurs, except the rule’s pending-complaint provision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within the statutory period
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Delinquency
May renew within the statutory period of less than one year, with the late renewal fee; do not practice while delinquent. A long-expired license must follow reinstatement.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Military applicant licensure — other jurisdiction
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Marriage
A military spouse submits proof of marriage to a military service member.
Military eligibility
A verified military service member, military veteran, or military spouse meeting this eligibility: A current license in good standing in another jurisdiction with a similar scope of practice.
Military restrictions
No waiver where a military service member or veteran has a restricted license or disqualifying criminal history.
Military waiver
The Executive Director may waive other prerequisites following consultation, but not §882.60(b) eligibility, jurisprudence, or the fingerprint check; military training credit under §781.419 does not replace an examination requirement.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Masters examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Military applicant licensure — prior texas
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Marriage
A military spouse submits proof of marriage to a military service member.
Military eligibility
A verified military service member, military veteran, or military spouse meeting this eligibility: Held the license sought in Texas within the five years before application.
Military restrictions
No waiver where a military service member or veteran has a restricted license or disqualifying criminal history.
Military waiver
The Executive Director may waive other prerequisites following consultation, but not §882.60(b) eligibility, jurisprudence, or the fingerprint check; military training credit under §781.419 does not replace an examination requirement.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Masters examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Active duty military renewal or timely return from delinquency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active duty
Provide official active-duty verification and request the fee and CE waiver before each renewal date.
Return from delinquency
An eligible former active-duty licensee may request reinstatement or return to active status within two years of delinquency under §883.10(b).
Waiver
The rule waives renewal fees and CE for the eligible renewal period; it identifies no examination for this route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure based on out of state credentials and verified examination scores
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Exam retake
A person who passed the same licensing examination in another jurisdiction is not required to retake it; request transfer or official verification of the passing score.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National accreditation credentials
The discretionary statutory independent-practice pathway in §505.3575(a)(2) requires Council assessment of experience and competence, Texas jurisprudence passage, good standing, and national-accreditation credentials the Council determines sufficiently protect public safety; the implementing §781.418(a)(2) also identifies the appropriate licensing exam.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Masters examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Out of state license
Submit verification of all current or former social work licenses. Good standing, sufficient experience and competence, and the applicable licensing exam passing score must be established under §781.418.
Pre 1986 waiver
Under 22 TAC §781.412(c), the Council may waive the examination on written petition for a valid out-of-state certificate or license issued before January 1, 1986. The currently offered exam remains a leaf and the waiver is an applicant condition.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Discretionary licensure of an independently licensed out of state practitioner
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Exam verification
The implementing §781.418(a)(2) requires passage of the licensing examination appropriate to the Texas category and Texas jurisprudence. A previously passed same licensing exam is not retaken; verified passing scores and applicable waivers remain applicant conditions.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National accreditation credentials
Present credentials obtained from a national accreditation organization that the Council determines sufficient to minimize risk to public safety.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Out of state independent license
Currently licensed in good standing in another state to independently practice social work; the Council must assess sufficient experience and competence under §505.3575(a)(2).
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Supervision
The Council may consider supervision received in another jurisdiction when that jurisdiction would consider it for licensing or certification.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Full licensure following a provisional social worker license
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Conversion processing
The statutory processing period is 180 days from provisional issuance or the issuance of licenses after the next examinations, whichever is later; a reciprocity waiver is discretionary only where a state reciprocity agreement exists. The Board FAQ states Texas has no such agreements.
Education
A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Implementation notice
The Board application FAQ states: "No. Applicants must meet all licensure requirements to be eligible for Texas licensure." in response to whether a provisional social worker license is offered. The statutory conversion route is retained; applicants must confirm the Board’s treatment of any existing provisional license.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Masters examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Provisional status
The applicant must already hold a provisional social worker license issued under §505.358; §505.359 governs full-license conversion.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Reactivation after four or more years inactive
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the renewal fee, and provide the required completed CE.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive four years or more.
Jurisprudence exception
Pass the relevant jurisprudence exam with the minimum acceptable score, unless another active license is held within the same profession.
Reactivation after less than four years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the applicable renewal fee, and provide completed CE required for renewal.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive less than four years.
Schedule
Standard renewal requirements apply; reactivation within 60 days of the renewal date meets the next period’s renewal requirements as stated in §882.21(b)(6).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reclassification from LBSW
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Existing license
A current Texas LBSW seeking LMSW classification.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
License continuity
Reclassification preserves the license number, expiration date, and renewal period; existing CE continues to count during that period.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Masters examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.
Reinstatement of retired, revoked, or resigned full license
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
An existing full license that is retired, revoked, or resigned.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Reinstatement after one year or more expired
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
A full license expired for one year or more.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Statutory reexamination
§507.255(d) requires reexamination and original-licensure qualifications; the relevant ASWB exam and Texas jurisprudence are retained. The Board’s reinstatement page lists the jurisprudence exam and other documents without listing an ASWB retake; the higher-ranked statute controls this route.
Return of former Texas license after practice in another jurisdiction
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
Previously licensed in Texas, moved elsewhere, and currently licensed and practicing in the other jurisdiction for the two years before application.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Reexamination
§507.256 permits renewal without reexamination. The Council’s implementing reinstatement instructions require the Texas jurisprudence exam; this statutory permission is not treated as an automatic waiver of that implemented requirement.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Biennial active license renewal
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Retiring a license in good standing
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the online retirement application; no practice is permitted under a retired license.
Eligible status
Active, inactive, or delinquent, with no pending complaint or restricted license.
Return to practice
Returning to practice requires reinstatement, rather than a new initial license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regular licensure after passage of examinations on a temporary license
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Existing temporary license
Hold the temporary license in this same social work category and pass the designated licensing examination. The holder remains temporarily licensed until the Council issues the regular license or the temporary license expires.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Pass the ASWB Masters examination before applying. A passing score already earned is accepted when verified; the timing of passing does not remove this currently offered examination from the route.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.

licensed master social worker with the advanced practitioner specialty recognition for non- clinical practice

Existing non-clinical Advanced Practitioner recognition; general new applications are no longer offered.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Renewal of preserved emeritus status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing status
Must have held emeritus status on September 1, 2020 and remain outside paid full- or part-time employment without returning the license to active status.
Irreversibility
Once the emeritus license expires or changes status, emeritus status cannot be reinstated.
Renewal
Renew online biennially; no renewal fee or CE is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placing an unrestricted license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Elect inactive status online and pay the applicable fee.
Eligible license
An unrestricted active or delinquent license; an unresolved complaint prevents electing inactive status under §882.21(b)(5).
Practice
No professional practice is allowed on inactive status; CE is not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Do not practice on inactive status; CE is not required.
Renewal
Complete the online inactive renewal requirements and fee each renewal period; the license expires if neither inactive renewal nor reactivation occurs, except the rule’s pending-complaint provision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within the statutory period
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Delinquency
May renew within the statutory period of less than one year, with the late renewal fee; do not practice while delinquent. A long-expired license must follow reinstatement.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Active duty military renewal or timely return from delinquency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active duty
Provide official active-duty verification and request the fee and CE waiver before each renewal date.
Return from delinquency
An eligible former active-duty licensee may request reinstatement or return to active status within two years of delinquency under §883.10(b).
Waiver
The rule waives renewal fees and CE for the eligible renewal period; it identifies no examination for this route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation after four or more years inactive
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the renewal fee, and provide the required completed CE.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive four years or more.
Jurisprudence exception
Pass the relevant jurisprudence exam with the minimum acceptable score, unless another active license is held within the same profession.
Reactivation after less than four years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the applicable renewal fee, and provide completed CE required for renewal.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive less than four years.
Schedule
Standard renewal requirements apply; reactivation within 60 days of the renewal date meets the next period’s renewal requirements as stated in §882.21(b)(6).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of retired, revoked, or resigned full license
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
An existing full license that is retired, revoked, or resigned.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Reinstatement after one year or more expired
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
A full license expired for one year or more.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Statutory reexamination
§507.255(d) requires reexamination and original-licensure qualifications; the relevant ASWB exam and Texas jurisprudence are retained. The Board’s reinstatement page lists the jurisprudence exam and other documents without listing an ASWB retake; the higher-ranked statute controls this route.
Return of former Texas license after practice in another jurisdiction
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
Previously licensed in Texas, moved elsewhere, and currently licensed and practicing in the other jurisdiction for the two years before application.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Reexamination
§507.256 permits renewal without reexamination. The Council’s implementing reinstatement instructions require the Texas jurisprudence exam; this statutory permission is not treated as an automatic waiver of that implemented requirement.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Biennial active license renewal
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Retiring a license in good standing
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the online retirement application; no practice is permitted under a retired license.
Eligible status
Active, inactive, or delinquent, with no pending complaint or restricted license.
Return to practice
Returning to practice requires reinstatement, rather than a new initial license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Supervisor Status

Council-approved supervision status on an existing social work license.

Licensing authority: Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Restoring supervisor status after discipline
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Meet the disciplinary order, restore good standing, take a new 40-hour supervisor course no earlier than execution of the order, and submit a new application.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-AP-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial supervisor recognition
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-AP-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regaining surrendered supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-AP-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).
Surrendered status
Reapply and meet the current supervisor requirements after surrendering supervisor status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Supervision ce
Six CE hours in supervision per renewal period, countable toward the underlying license’s total CE; maintaining the underlying license follows its own renewal route.
Underlying license
Maintain an active underlying license and renew supervisor status with the biennial license renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

licensed master social worker with non-clinical independent practice recognition

Non-clinical independent practice recognition on the existing LMSW license.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council / Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Renewal of preserved emeritus status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing status
Must have held emeritus status on September 1, 2020 and remain outside paid full- or part-time employment without returning the license to active status.
Irreversibility
Once the emeritus license expires or changes status, emeritus status cannot be reinstated.
Renewal
Renew online biennially; no renewal fee or CE is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placing an unrestricted license on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Elect inactive status online and pay the applicable fee.
Eligible license
An unrestricted active or delinquent license; an unresolved complaint prevents electing inactive status under §882.21(b)(5).
Practice
No professional practice is allowed on inactive status; CE is not required while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Practice
Do not practice on inactive status; CE is not required.
Renewal
Complete the online inactive renewal requirements and fee each renewal period; the license expires if neither inactive renewal nor reactivation occurs, except the rule’s pending-complaint provision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within the statutory period
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Delinquency
May renew within the statutory period of less than one year, with the late renewal fee; do not practice while delinquent. A long-expired license must follow reinstatement.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Active duty military renewal or timely return from delinquency
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active duty
Provide official active-duty verification and request the fee and CE waiver before each renewal date.
Return from delinquency
An eligible former active-duty licensee may request reinstatement or return to active status within two years of delinquency under §883.10(b).
Waiver
The rule waives renewal fees and CE for the eligible renewal period; it identifies no examination for this route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation after four or more years inactive
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the renewal fee, and provide the required completed CE.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive four years or more.
Jurisprudence exception
Pass the relevant jurisprudence exam with the minimum acceptable score, unless another active license is held within the same profession.
Reactivation after less than four years inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply online for active status, pay the applicable renewal fee, and provide completed CE required for renewal.
Inactive period
The license has been inactive less than four years.
Schedule
Standard renewal requirements apply; reactivation within 60 days of the renewal date meets the next period’s renewal requirements as stated in §882.21(b)(6).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Non clinical independent practice specialty recognition
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Existing license
Must hold a current Texas LMSW license.
Experience
3,000 hours of supervised social work experience over at least two years, or equivalent experience in another jurisdiction.
Jurisprudence
Complete the social work jurisprudence examination and submit proof with the application; the certificate must satisfy the six-month application window.
Scope
Recognition authorizes independent non-clinical practice. An LBSW-IPR reclassified to LMSW must complete the LMSW-IPR requirements; hours before LMSW issuance do not count toward LMSW-IPR.
Supervision
At least 100 supervision hours with a supervisor qualified under §781.406(b), using a signed plan and verification forms; maintain employment and evaluation documentation.
Reinstatement of retired, revoked, or resigned full license
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
An existing full license that is retired, revoked, or resigned.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Reinstatement after one year or more expired
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
A full license expired for one year or more.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Statutory reexamination
§507.255(d) requires reexamination and original-licensure qualifications; the relevant ASWB exam and Texas jurisprudence are retained. The Board’s reinstatement page lists the jurisprudence exam and other documents without listing an ASWB retake; the higher-ranked statute controls this route.
Return of former Texas license after practice in another jurisdiction
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Submit a reinstatement application, fee, NPDB self-query, a new fingerprint check, written explanation, and CE equivalent to a standard renewal period.
Council discretion
Appear if requested; reinstatement may be denied or conditioned, and the Council may require additional examinations or documentation without specifying another particular current examination.
Former license
Previously licensed in Texas, moved elsewhere, and currently licensed and practicing in the other jurisdiction for the two years before application.
Jurisprudence
Complete the relevant Texas jurisprudence exam within six months before applying.
Reexamination
§507.256 permits renewal without reexamination. The Council’s implementing reinstatement instructions require the Texas jurisprudence exam; this statutory permission is not treated as an automatic waiver of that implemented requirement.
Revocation or resignation
Wait at least one year after revocation or resignation, or any longer period specified in the order; special statutory criminal-history restoration prerequisites remain applicable.
Biennial active license renewal
TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam
Continuing education
Complete 30 CE hours per renewal period, including six in ethics and three on a chosen distinct population; comply with the provider, documentation, audit, and retention rules.
Human trafficking
Complete the required approved human trafficking prevention training under §883.1(d)(2).
Jurisprudence choice
The jurisprudence examination is an optional CE method: passing it earns one hour in ethics under §781.501(g)(1). The applicant may satisfy CE entirely by other accepted activities; the named, currently offered examination remains in this renewal route as an accepted alternative.
License status
A current license or specialty recognition in the stated category.
Renewal
Renew online biennially by the end of the birth month; renewal may be completed 60 days in advance.
Retiring a license in good standing
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the online retirement application; no practice is permitted under a retired license.
Eligible status
Active, inactive, or delinquent, with no pending complaint or restricted license.
Return to practice
Returning to practice requires reinstatement, rather than a new initial license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Supervisor Status (LMSW-IPR-S)

Council-approved supervision status on an existing social work license.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Restoring supervisor status after discipline
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Meet the disciplinary order, restore good standing, take a new 40-hour supervisor course no earlier than execution of the order, and submit a new application.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-IPR-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial supervisor recognition
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-IPR-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regaining surrendered supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-IPR-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).
Surrendered status
Reapply and meet the current supervisor requirements after surrendering supervisor status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Supervision ce
Six CE hours in supervision per renewal period, countable toward the underlying license’s total CE; maintaining the underlying license follows its own renewal route.
Underlying license
Maintain an active underlying license and renew supervisor status with the biennial license renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Supervisor Status (LMSW-S)

Council-approved supervision status on an existing social work license.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Restoring supervisor status after discipline
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Meet the disciplinary order, restore good standing, take a new 40-hour supervisor course no earlier than execution of the order, and submit a new application.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial supervisor recognition
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regaining surrendered supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold an active social work license in good standing in the category and recognition indicated by LMSW-S.
Experience
At least two years of licensed practice in the category; equivalent practice in another jurisdiction may count.
Supervision boundary
The category of supervisee and whether experience is clinical or toward IPR determine the additional supervisor qualifications under §§781.402 and 781.406; the status does not enlarge the underlying license scope.
Supervisor training
Complete the Council-acceptable 40-hour supervisor course with the subject allocations and completion period specified by §781.404(c).
Surrendered status
Reapply and meet the current supervisor requirements after surrendering supervisor status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of supervisor status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Supervision ce
Six CE hours in supervision per renewal period, countable toward the underlying license’s total CE; maintaining the underlying license follows its own renewal route.
Underlying license
Maintain an active underlying license and renew supervisor status with the biennial license renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) — Temporary

A temporary social work license available before the licensing examination, with all other requirements satisfied and jurisprudence completion proof submitted at application; valid until the examination attempt or the end of six months.

Licensing authority: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners · Application information

Temporary licensure before examination
Application
Submit the Council application and applicable fee with required supporting documentation; an incomplete application expires after 180 days.
Board implementation
22 TAC §781.411 and the Board FAQ state the temporary license lasts six months or until the first appropriate ASWB exam attempt, whichever occurs first, and requires all other licensing qualifications; the Board also generally asks for a jurisprudence certificate with an application.
Citizenship
Provide the citizenship or immigration documentation requested in the application; SAVE verification applies to the applicants identified in 22 TAC §882.2(a)(5).
Education
A doctoral or master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by or in candidacy for accreditation by CSWE, with a successful social work field placement documented on the transcript.
Examination timing
§505.357 authorizes temporary issuance before licensing and jurisprudence passage, with validity until the first appropriate examination results are available. The later examination requirements remain leaves.
Fingerprints
A fingerprint-based DPS/FBI criminal history check is required, subject to the Council rules governing an existing Council license and disqualifying criminal history.
Foreign degree
Foreign degrees require an official transcript, certified English translation, and a Council-accepted comparability evaluation under 22 TAC §882.11.
Jurisprudence timing
Complete the Texas social work jurisprudence examination no more than six months before applying and submit the completion certificate.
Minimum age
At least 18 years of age.
National exam
Passing the ASWB Masters examination is not required before applying for this temporary license. Under 22 TAC §781.411(a)–(c), temporary issuance is available before the licensing examination; the holder must take the designated examination within six months of issuance, and temporary validity ends at the appropriate examination attempt or the end of that six-month period. The Masters examination leaf records the subsequent examination requirement, not a pre-issuance passing prerequisite.
Npdb
Submit a digitally certified NPDB self-query or the sealed original.
Public trust
Must be worthy of the public trust and confidence.
Temporary eligibility
The applicant must never have held a temporary license for the same category; LCSW and specialty-recognition applicants are ineligible under §781.411(i).
Temporary practice
Display the license and use the word Temporary with the licensed title; cease practice and return the certificate after examination failure; temporary status does not begin supervision accrual toward independent practice.
Waiver
A nonstatutory prerequisite may be considered for waiver or remediation under 22 TAC §882.14; 22 TAC §781.421 does not permit waiver of the qualifying degree or requisite examinations under its disaster-remediation pathway.

TX State Board of Social Worker Examiners Jurisprudence Exam

Provider
eStrategy Solutions, Inc.
Format
Online open-book, no-fail examination with immediate answer remediation; each question must be answered correctly before proceeding.
Time limit
Approximately two hours estimated; no time limit.
Passing score
A correct answer to every question is required before proceeding and receiving a completion certificate.
Exam fee
$39.00
Practice scope

Inferred from the examination name; the authority has not published an examination outline.

  • Texas Occupations Code Chapter 505 — Social Workers
  • Texas Occupations Code Chapter 507 — Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
  • 22 TAC Chapter 781 — Social Worker Licensure
  • 22 TAC Chapter 881 — General Provisions
  • 22 TAC Chapter 882 — Applications and Licensing
  • 22 TAC Chapter 883 — Renewals
  • 22 TAC Chapter 884 — Complaints and Enforcement
  • Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 611 — Mental Health Records
  • Texas Family Code Chapter 32 — Consent to Treatment of Child by Non-Parent or Child
  • Texas Family Code Chapter 153 — Conservatorship, Possession, and Access
  • Texas Family Code Chapter 107 — Special Appointments, Child Custody Evaluations, and Adoption Evaluations
  • Texas Family Code Chapter 261 — Investigation of Report of Child Abuse or Neglect
  • Texas Human Resources Code Chapter 48 — Investigations and Protective Services for Elderly Persons and Persons with Disabilities
  • Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 81 — Sexual Exploitation by Mental Health Services Provider
Examination sources

Bachelors exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$230 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (35%) (35%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (33%) (33%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Task-centered approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role modeling techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Social change and social planning methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Assertiveness training techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role play techniques
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
Examination sources

Clinical exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$260 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (36%) (36%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Research ethics (e.g., institutional review boards, use of human subjects, informed consent)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (32% — the heading in the Clinical content outline prints no percentage; page 6 of the guidebook states the Clinical examination will have 32 percent of the questions testing Assessment and Planning) (32%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in assessment and common indicators of mental health and brain-related conditions
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Developing formal documents (e.g., grants, proposals, reports, evaluations)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Assertiveness training techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role modeling techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Couples interventions and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role play techniques
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of establishing program objectives and outcomes
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Program evaluation and related impact on services
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Quality assurance (e.g., program reviews and audits by external sources)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Fiscal management and resource allocation techniques
Examination sources

Masters exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$230 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (35%) (35%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (33%) (33%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Social change and social planning methods
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures for safe, inclusive, and a healthy work environment
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
Examination sources