How to Become a Social Worker in Louisiana
To become a social worker in Louisiana, you'll need a CSWE-accredited degree (BSW for RSW, MSW for LMSW/LCSW), pass the ASWB exam (for LMSW/LCSW), and complete 5,760 supervised hours for clinical practice. Louisiana offers three license levels: RSW, LMSW, and LCSW. The complete path to independent clinical practice typically takes 6-8 years with salaries ranging from $39,900 to $107,680 depending on specialization.
Social workers in Louisiana provide essential services across healthcare, schools, mental health agencies, and community organizations. Whether you're helping families navigate social services, providing clinical therapy, or supporting individuals through life challenges, a career in social work offers meaningful opportunities to make a real difference in your community.
Louisiana recognizes three distinct levels of social work practice, each with specific educational and licensing requirements. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about becoming a licensed social worker in Louisiana, from choosing your educational path to maintaining your credential.
Table of Contents
- Louisiana Social Work License Levels Overview
- Registered Social Worker (RSW) Requirements
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements
- Louisiana Social Worker Salaries (2025 Data)
- Continuing Education Requirements
- Louisiana Social Work Licensing Timeline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- The Importance of CSWE Accreditation
- Louisiana Social Work Resources
Louisiana Social Work License Levels Overview
Louisiana offers three social work credentials through the Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners (LABSWE). Each level authorizes different scopes of practice and requires progressively advanced education and experience.
| License Level | Education Required | Exam Required | Supervised Experience | Scope of Practice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Social Worker (RSW) | Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) | No | None | Basic social work services in agency settings |
| Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) | Master's in Social Work (MSW) | Yes (ASWB Masters) | None for licensure | Advanced social work practice under supervision |
| Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) | Master's in Social Work (MSW) | Yes (ASWB Clinical) | 5,760 hours (3,840 supervised) | Independent clinical practice, including psychotherapy |
Registered Social Worker (RSW) Requirements
The Registered Social Worker credential is Louisiana's entry-level social work designation. RSWs provide basic social work services such as case management, resource referral, supportive counseling, and advocacy within organizational or agency settings.
Education Requirements for RSW
You'll need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program. The BSW typically takes four years to complete and includes coursework in human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and supervised field placement. Louisiana does not accept bachelor's degrees in related fields like psychology or sociology for RSW registration.
RSW Application Process
Unlike higher license levels, the RSW doesn't require an examination. To apply:
- Create an online account with LABSWE through their website
- Submit official transcripts directly from your CSWE-accredited institution
- Complete a criminal background check ($40.75 fee)
- Upload a current passport-style photo
- Complete the RAP (Record of Arrests and Prosecutions) disclosure form
- Pay the $50 application fee
The Board typically reviews applications within 10-15 business days. Once approved, you can begin practicing as an RSW within an agency or organization.
RSW Scope of Practice
As an RSW, you can provide general social work services, including case management, community organization, program administration, supportive counseling, advocacy, and resource coordination. RSWs must work within an agency or organizational setting and cannot provide clinical social work services or practice independently.
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Requirements
The Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential authorizes advanced social work practice. LMSWs can provide psychosocial services and may conduct clinical social work under appropriate supervision. This license is essential for those pursuing clinical practice, as it allows you to begin accruing supervised hours toward LCSW licensure.
Education Requirements for LMSW
You must earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program. MSW programs typically require two years of full-time study (or 3-4 years part-time) and include advanced coursework in clinical assessment, evidence-based interventions, policy analysis, and substantial supervised field experience. Many Louisiana universities offer both traditional and online MSW programs to accommodate working professionals.
The Certified Social Worker (CSW) Pathway
Louisiana offers a temporary Certified Social Worker (CSW) credential for those who have completed their MSW but haven't yet passed the required exam. As a CSW, you can:
- Practice the same scope as an RSW
- Provide clinical social work under LCSW supervision
- Have up to three years to pass the ASWB Master's exam
- Must attempt the exam at least once every 12 months, including within the first six months
If you don't pass the exam within three years, your CSW will be recalled, and you'll need to apply for RSW registration instead.
ASWB Master's Examination
The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Master's exam is required for LMSW licensure. This computer-based test includes 170 questions covering social work practice, assessment, intervention, and professional ethics. You'll register directly with ASWB, and they'll report your passing score to LABSWE.
LMSW Application Process
After passing the ASWB Master's exam:
- Create an online LABSWE account
- Submit official transcripts from your MSW program
- Complete criminal background check
- Uploadthe authorization form
- Complete RAP disclosure form
- Pay the $75 application fee
You should receive confirmation within 2-4 weeks. Once licensed, you can begin the supervised experience required for LCSW advancement.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements
The Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is Louisiana's highest social work credential. LCSWs can practice clinical social work independently, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, psychotherapy, and case management for individuals, families, couples, and groups. This license qualifies you for private practice, insurance reimbursement, and the highest level of clinical responsibility.
Education Requirements for LCSW
You'll need the same MSW from a CSWE-accredited program required for LMSW. The clinical focus of your MSW coursework and field placements becomes particularly important for LCSW preparation.
Supervised Clinical Experience Requirements
This is the most substantial requirement for LCSW licensure. You must complete:
- 5,760 total hours of post-MSW social work experience
- 3,840 hours must be under the supervision of an LCSW-BACS (Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor)
- Typically takes 3-4 years working full-time
- Your supervisor doesn't need to work for the same agency
Finding a Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor
Your supervisor must hold the LCSW-BACS (Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor) designation. LABSWE maintains a searchable list of approved supervisors on their website. When selecting a supervisor, consider:
- Their clinical specialization matches your practice area
- Availability for required monthly supervision sessions
- Geographic proximity or the ability to provide remote supervision
- Cost of supervision services (varies by supervisor)
- Their supervision style and approach
Registering Your Supervision
You must formally register your supervision arrangement with LABSWE ($35 fee). This registration requires:
- Employment verification from your agency
- Detailed supervision plan submitted within 60 days of starting supervision
- Documentation of supervisor's LCSW-BACS credentials
If the Board requests revisions to your plan, you'll have 30 days to resubmit. Keep detailed records of all supervision hours, including dates, duration, and topics covered, as you'll need this documentation for your LCSW application.
ASWB Clinical Examination
After completing your supervised experience, you'll take the ASWB Clinical exam. This advanced examination covers clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, therapeutic interventions, and professional ethics at the independent practice level. Many candidates use study guides and prep courses to prepare for this challenging exam.
LCSW Application Process
Your LCSW application package must include:
- Completed online application
- Current passport-style photo
- Official transcripts from your MSW program
- Complete documentation of all 5,760 supervised hours
- Employment verification
- Supervision records and evaluations
- Verification of passing the ASWB Clinical exam
- Criminal background check results
- $100 application fee
Once approved, you can practice clinical social work independently, open a private practice, and bill insurance directly for services.
Louisiana Social Worker Salaries (2025 Data)
Social work salaries in Louisiana vary significantly based on specialization, license level, experience, and practice setting. Here's the current salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for May 2024:
| Specialization | Employment | 10th Percentile | Median Annual Salary | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Social Workers | 1,480 | $48,570 | $64,380 | $83,650 |
| Child, Family & School Social Workers | 1,030 | $31,160 | $39,900 | $69,070 |
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse Social Workers | 30,220 | $34,120 | $62,480 | $72,560 |
| Social Workers, All Other | 880 | $37,030 | $64,720 | $107,680 |
Factors Affecting Social Work Salaries in Louisiana
Your earning potential as a social worker in Louisiana depends on several factors:
- License Level: LCSWs typically earn 20-30% more than LMSWs or RSWs due to their ability to practice independently and bill insurance
- Practice Setting: Healthcare facilities often pay higher salaries than school or community agency positions
- Geographic Location: Metropolitan areas like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport generally offer higher compensation than rural communities
- Experience: Seasoned social workers with 10+ years of experience can reach the 90th percentile range
- Specialization: Clinical social workers in private practice or specialized settings often earn more than generalist positions
For current job opportunities in Louisiana, check the Louisiana NASW chapter job board, which regularly posts openings across the state.
Continuing Education Requirements
Louisiana requires all licensed social workers to complete continuing education (CE) annually to maintain active status. These requirements ensure social workers stay current with best practices, ethical standards, and emerging research.
Annual CE Hour Requirements
| License Level | Total Annual CE Hours | Clinical Content Required | Ethics Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| RSW | 20 hours | None | 3 hours (every 2 years) |
| LMSW | 20 hours | None | 3 hours (every 2 years) |
| LCSW | 20 hours | 10 hours in clinical social work | 3 hours (every 2 years) |
| LCSW-BACS | 20 hours | 10 hours in clinical social work | 3 hours ethics + 3 hours supervision (every 2 years) |
License Renewal Information
All Louisiana social work licenses must be renewed annually by August 31st. The CE reporting period runs from September 1 through August 31 each year. Renewal fees vary by credential:
- RSW: $25 + $3 electronic commerce fee
- LMSW: $50 + $3 electronic commerce fee
- LCSW: $75 + $3 electronic commerce fee
- LCSW-BACS: $75 + $3 electronic commerce fee
If your license lapses, you'll face additional requirements for reinstatement depending on how long it's been inactive.
Louisiana Social Work Licensing Timeline
Understanding the typical timeline helps you plan your educational and professional journey. Here's what to expect on the path to independent clinical practice:
Typical 6-8 Year Timeline to LCSW
Years 1-4: Bachelor's Degree (if starting from scratch)
- Complete BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
- Includes 400+ hours of supervised field experience
- Option to work as RSW upon graduation
Years 5-6 (or 1-2 if you already have a bachelor's): Master's Degree
- Complete MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
- Includes 900+ hours of advanced field placements
- Prepare for and pass the ASWB Master's exam
- Obtainan LMSW license
Years 7-9 (or 3-5 from MSW): Supervised Clinical Experience
- Work as an LMSW while accruing 5,760 supervised hours
- Typically takes 3-4 years working full-time
- Maintain regular supervision with LCSW-BACS
Year 8-10 (or 4-6 from MSW): LCSW Licensure
- Complete supervised experience requirements
- Pass the ASWB Clinical examination
- Submit LCSW application
- Begin independent clinical practice
This timeline can be shortened if you already have a bachelor's degree in another field and go directly to an MSW program, or if you work more than full-time hours to accumulate supervised experience faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a social worker in Louisiana?
It depends on your starting point and career goals. With a bachelor's degree, you can become an RSW in about 4 years. Adding an MSW and LMSW licensure takes 6-7 years total. Reaching LCSW with independent clinical practice typically requires 8-10 years from your bachelor's degree, including 3-4 years of supervised post-MSW experience.
Can I become a social worker in Louisiana without a degree?
No. Louisiana requires a minimum of a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program for RSW registration. Degrees in related fields like psychology, sociology, or counseling don't qualify for social work licensure. You must complete a social work degree specifically.
What's the difference between RSW, LMSW, and LCSW in Louisiana?
RSW requires a BSW and allows basic social work in agencies. LMSW requires an MSW and ASWB Master's exam, allowing advanced practice under supervision. LCSW requires an MSW, ASWB Clinical exam, and 5,760 supervised hours, permitting independent clinical practice, including psychotherapy and private practice.
How much does a social worker make in Louisiana?
Louisiana social worker salaries range from $31,160 to $107,680 depending on specialization, license level, and experience. The median salary for child and family social workers is $39,900, while healthcare social workers earn a median of $64,380. Mental health and substance abuse social workers earn a median of $62,480 annually.
Do I need to pass an exam to get my RSW in Louisiana?
No. Unlike LMSW and LCSW, the RSW credential doesn't require passing an examination. You simply need to complete your CSWE-accredited BSW, submit your application with transcripts and a background check, and pay the $50 fee.
How many supervised hours do I need for LCSW in Louisiana?
You need a total of 5,760 hours of post-MSW social work experience, with at least 3,840 of those hours under the direct supervision of an LCSW-BACS (Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor). Working full-time, this typically takes 3-4 years to complete.
How do I find a Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor in Louisiana?
LABSWE maintains a searchable directory of current LCSW-BACS supervisors on its website. You can search by location, specialization, or name. Your supervisor doesn't need to work at your same agency, and many supervisors offer services on a fee-for-service basis.
Can I get a Louisiana social work license with an out-of-state degree?
Yes, as long as your BSW or MSW is from a CSWE-accredited program. CSWE accreditation is national, so degrees from accredited programs in other states are accepted. The Board reviews all applications to ensure they meet Louisiana's educational requirements.
Does Louisiana have reciprocity for social work licenses from other states?
Louisiana doesn't have formal reciprocity agreements, but offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states. If your current license was issued under requirements equivalent to or more stringent than Louisiana's, you may qualify. You'll need to submit an application with documentation of your out-of-state license.
What happens if I fail the ASWB exam in Louisiana?
You can retake the exam after a 90-day waiting period. If you're a CSW, you must attempt the exam at least once every 12 months and pass within three years of obtaining your CSW, or your credential will be recalled. There's no limit on the number of attempts, but you'll pay the exam fee each time.
Can I practice social work in Louisiana while waiting for my license?
Not independently. You must have at least an RSW credential to practice social work in Louisiana. However, MSW graduates can apply for a temporary CSW permit while preparing for the ASWB Master's exam, which allows supervised practice.
How much does it cost to become a licensed social worker in Louisiana?
Application fees range from $50 (RSW) to $100 (LCSW), plus a $40.75 background check fee. You'll also pay ASWB exam fees (approximately $260), supervision registration ($35 for LCSW), and annual renewal fees ($25-$75). The biggest expense is your education, with MSW programs typically costing $30,000-$80,000 depending on the institution.
What continuing education do Louisiana social workers need?
All Louisiana social workers must complete 20 hours of continuing education annually. LCSWs must include at least 10 hours in clinical social work content. All license levels must complete 3 hours in ethics every two years. The CE collection period runs from September 1 through August 31.
Can LCSWs in Louisiana have a private practice?
Yes. LCSWs can practice independently, including opening a private practice and billing insurance directly. LMSWs and CSWs must practice under supervision and cannot independently bill for clinical services or operate a private practice.
What's the difference between an LCSW and an LCSW-BACS?
LCSW-BACS is a supervisor designation for experienced LCSWs who have completed additional training in clinical supervision. To become a BACS, you must be an LCSW for at least three years, complete Board-approved supervision training courses, and submit an application with reference letters. BACS supervisors can provide the required supervision for candidates pursuing LCSW licensure.
Does Louisiana accept online MSW degrees for social work licensure?
Yes, as long as the program is CSWE-accredited. Many reputable universities offer CSWE-accredited online MSW programs that meet Louisiana's requirements. The key is ensuring the program includes required field placements and maintains full CSWE accreditation throughout your enrollment.
The Importance of CSWE Accreditation
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the national accrediting body for social work programs. CSWE accreditation is absolutely critical for anyone pursuing social work licensure in Louisiana or any other state.
Why CSWE Accreditation Matters
Louisiana, like all 50 states, requires social work degrees from CSWE-accredited programs for licensure. A social work degree from a non-accredited program, no matter how rigorous, won't qualify you for any level of Louisiana social work licensure. Before enrolling in any BSW or MSW program, verify the current CSWE accreditation status on the CSWE website.
What CSWE Accreditation Ensures
CSWE-accredited programs must meet rigorous standards, including:
- Comprehensive curriculum covering social work values, ethics, and competencies
- Qualified faculty with appropriate credentials and practice experience
- Substantial supervised field education (400+ hours for BSW, 900+ for MSW)
- Assessment of student learning outcomes
- Adequate resources and institutional support
These standards ensure graduates are well-prepared for professional social work practice and meet the competency requirements for licensure.
Finding CSWE-Accredited Programs
You can search for CSWE-accredited BSW and MSW programs in Louisiana through the CSWE directory. Louisiana currently has multiple accredited programs offering both traditional on-campus and online options to accommodate diverse student needs.
Louisiana Social Work Resources
Several organizations support social workers throughout their education and careers in Louisiana:
Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners (LABSWE)
The official licensing authority for social workers in Louisiana. Visit their website for applications, supervisor directories, CE requirements, and regulatory updates.
National Association of Social Workers - Louisiana Chapter (NASW-LA)
Professional organization offering advocacy, continuing education, networking, and job postings for Louisiana social workers. Membership provides access to professional liability insurance, career resources, and legislative updates affecting the profession.
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)
Develops and administers the social work licensing examinations. Their website offers exam content outlines, practice tests, and registration information.
Related Louisiana Licensing Guides
If you're exploring related helping professions in Louisiana, check out these comprehensive guides:
- Louisiana Psychologist Licensing Requirements
- Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Requirements
- Louisiana Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Licensing
Key Takeaways
- Louisiana offers three social work license levels: RSW (bachelor's level), LMSW (master's level), and LCSW (clinical practice level with independent authority)
- All social work degrees must be from CSWE-accredited programs for licensure eligibility in Louisiana
- LCSW licensure requires 5,760 total supervised hours (3,840 under LCSW-BACS supervision), typically taking 3-4 years post-MSW to complete
- Louisiana social worker median salaries range from $39,900 (child/family) to $64,720 (specialized practice) based on May 2024 BLS data
- All licensed social workers must complete 20 hours of continuing education annually, with LCSWs requiring 10 hours in clinical content
- The complete path from bachelor's degree to independent clinical practice (LCSW) typically takes 8-10 years, including education and supervised experience
- RSW is the only credential that doesn't require passing an ASWB examination, while both LMSW and LCSW require their respective exams
Ready to Start Your Social Work Career in Louisiana?
Find CSWE-accredited social work programs that match your career goals, schedule, and location. Compare BSW and MSW options from Louisiana universities to begin your journey toward helping others.
Explore Louisiana Social Work Programs
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Social Workers, Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Healthcare Social Workers, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, and Social Workers, All Other are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
