Maryland Social Work Licensing Requirements
To become a social worker in Maryland, you'll need a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program for basic licensure (LBSW), or a master's degree (MSW) for advanced practice. Clinical social workers (LCSW-C) must complete 3,000 supervised hours, including 1,500 in direct clinical care, pass the ASWB Clinical exam, and hold 12 credits of clinical coursework. The entire process typically takes 5-7 years from bachelor's to clinical licensure.
Social workers play a vital role in Maryland's healthcare system, schools, mental health agencies, and community organizations. They provide counseling, connect people with resources, advocate for vulnerable populations, and help individuals navigate life's challenges. Maryland's diverse population and proximity to major metropolitan areas like Baltimore and Washington, D.C., create strong demand for qualified social work professionals.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Maryland Social Work Licenses
- Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
- Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)
- Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)
- Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C)
- Why CSWE Accreditation Matters
- Find Accredited Programs
- Maryland Social Worker Salaries 2025
- Application Process and Timeline
- Frequently Asked Questions
If you're considering social work career paths, understanding Maryland's licensing requirements is your first step. The state offers four distinct license levels, each with specific education, examination, and experience requirements. Whether you're just starting your bachelor's degree or pursuing advanced clinical practice, this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Maryland Social Work Licensing Requirements
Maryland regulates social work practice through the Board of Social Work Examiners, which sets standards to protect public welfare and ensure professional competence. Let's explore the pathway to becoming a licensed social worker in Maryland.
Understanding Maryland Social Work Licenses
Maryland offers four levels of social work licensure, each designed for different practice settings and responsibilities. Your career goals will determine which license you pursue.
The four license types are:
- LBSW (Licensed Bachelor Social Worker) - Entry-level license for bachelor's degree holders
- LGSW (Licensed Graduate Social Worker) - Advanced license for master's degree holders
- LCSW (Licensed Certified Social Worker) - Requires supervised experience for advanced generalist practice
- LCSW-C (Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical) - Highest level allowing independent clinical practice and diagnosis
Here's a comparison of the requirements:
| License Type | Education Required | Supervised Experience | Examination | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LBSW | Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program | None required | ASWB Bachelor's Exam | 4 years (degree) + 3-6 months (application) |
| LGSW | Master's in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program | None required before licensure | ASWB Master's Exam | 2 years (MSW) + 3-6 months (application) |
| LCSW | Master's in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program | 3,000 hours post-degree supervised practice (typically 2 years full-time) | ASWB Clinical or Advanced Generalist Exam | 5-6 years total (includes MSW + experience) |
| LCSW-C | MSW with 12 credits of clinical coursework from a CSWE-accredited program | 3,000 hours with 1,500 in direct clinical care under LCSW-C supervision | ASWB Clinical Exam | 5-7 years total (includes MSW + clinical experience) |
Each level builds on the previous one, creating a clear career progression. Most social workers start with either an LBSW or move directly to an LGSW after completing their master's degree, then accumulate supervised hours to advance to clinical licensure.
Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) Requirements
The LBSW is Maryland's entry-level license for social workers. It allows you to provide basic social services under supervision but doesn't permit independent clinical practice or psychotherapy.
Education Requirements
You must complete a bachelor's degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Your BSW program includes coursework in human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and field practicum experience. The field practicum typically requires 400 hours of supervised social work practice in community settings.
Maryland doesn't accept bachelor's degrees in related fields like psychology or sociology for LBSW licensure. The degree must be specifically in social work from a CSWE-accredited program.
Examination Requirements
After completing your BSW, you must pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Bachelor's examination. This is a standardized, computer-based test with 170 multiple-choice questions covering four content areas: human development and behavior, assessment and intervention planning, direct and indirect practice, and professional relationships.
You'll need to apply to the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners for approval to take the exam. Once approved, you can schedule your test at a Pearson VUE testing center. The exam costs $260, and you'll receive preliminary pass/fail results immediately after completing the test.
Application Requirements
Your LBSW application package must include:
- Completed application form with $100 application fee
- Official transcripts showing your BSW degree
- ASWB Bachelor's exam results
- Three professional references (forms provided by the board)
- Criminal history records check from the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System.
- Verification of any out-of-state social work licenses
The board typically processes complete applications within 4-8 weeks. You can't practice as a social worker in Maryland until you receive your license.
Career Opportunities with an LBSW
LBSW holders work in schools, hospitals, community agencies, and social service organizations. Common positions include case manager, school social worker (under supervision), intake coordinator, and program assistant. While you can provide valuable services, you'll work under the supervision of a licensed clinical social worker or other qualified supervisor.
Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) Requirements
The LGSW is Maryland's advanced generalist license for master's-level social workers. It's similar to the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential in other states. With an LGSW, you can provide a broader range of social services, including teaching, consultation, advocacy, and case management, but you still can't practice psychotherapy or diagnosis independently.
Education Requirements
You need a master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. MSW programs typically take two years of full-time study and include advanced coursework in clinical practice, policy analysis, research, and specialized electives. You'll also complete a minimum of 900 hours of supervised field education across two internship placements.
If you already hold a BSW, many MSW programs offer advanced standing options that let you complete the degree in one year instead of two. This can significantly reduce the time and cost of earning your master's degree.
Examination Requirements
LGSW candidates must pass the ASWB Master's examination. This test is more advanced than the bachelor's exam and includes 170 questions covering similar content areas but at a higher level of complexity. The exam focuses on assessment, treatment planning, intervention techniques, and professional ethics.
The application process is the same as for the LBSW. You'll apply to the Maryland board for exam approval, then schedule your test at a Pearson VUE center. The exam fee is $260.
Application Requirements
Your LGSW application includes:
- Completed application form with $100 application fee
- Official transcripts showing your MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program
- ASWB Master's exam results
- Three professional references
- Criminal history records check
- Verification of any prior social work licenses
The LGSW doesn't require supervised work experience before you can apply. However, if you plan to advance to LCSW or LCSW-C, you'll need to begin accumulating supervised hours immediately after receiving your LGSW.
What You Can Do with an LGSW
LGSW licensees work in diverse settings, including hospitals, mental health agencies, schools, government offices, and nonprofit organizations. You can provide case management, advocacy, program development, policy analysis, community organizing, and non-clinical counseling services. Many LGSW holders pursue this license as a stepping stone while accumulating the supervised hours needed for clinical licensure.
Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) Requirements
The LCSW represents advanced generalist practice and requires significant post-degree supervised experience. This license allows you to work more independently in administrative, supervisory, and advanced practice roles. However, if you want to provide psychotherapy and diagnosis, you'll need the LCSW-C designation instead.
Education Requirements
You must hold a master's degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. This is the exact educational requirement for the LGSW.
Prior Licensure Required
You can't apply for an LCSW directly after completing your MSW. You must first obtain an LGSW and work under supervision while accumulating the required experience hours. This ensures you have appropriate oversight while developing advanced practice skills.
Supervised Work Experience
The LCSW requires 3,000 hours of post-degree supervised social work practice, which typically takes about two years of full-time work. Your supervision must meet specific criteria:
Supervision Requirements:
- Work under an LCSW or LCSW-C supervisor who holds an active Maryland license
- Complete a minimum of 144 hours of face-to-face supervision during the entire supervision period
- Receive at least one hour of supervision per 20-25 hours of work
- Up to 72 hours of supervision may occur in group settings with up to six supervisees
- Establish a formal supervision contract before beginning supervised practice
- Document all supervision hours and activities
Your supervisor evaluates your professional development, reviews cases, provides guidance on ethical issues, and ensures you're developing competence in social work practice. The supervision relationship is formalized through a written contract that outlines expectations, meeting schedules, and learning objectives.
Examination Requirements
LCSW candidates have two exam options:
- ASWB Clinical Examination - Required if you plan to pursue LCSW-C
- ASWB Advanced Generalist Examination - For those pursuing non-clinical advanced practice
Most social workers take the Clinical exam even if they're applying for standard LCSW, because it keeps the option open for later upgrading to LCSW-C. The Clinical exam includes 170 questions covering assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, intervention, and professional ethics at an advanced level.
Application Requirements
Your LCSW application must include:
- Completed application form with $100 application fee
- Proof of current LGSW licensure in Maryland
- Official transcripts showing your MSW degree
- ASWB Clinical or Advanced Generalist exam results
- Verification of 3,000 supervised practice hours
- Copy of your supervision contract
- Supervisor's verification and evaluation
- Professional resume or CV
- Three professional references (one must be from your clinical supervisor)
- Criminal history records check
The board reviews your supervision documentation carefully to ensure it meets all requirements. Many applications are delayed because of incomplete supervision records, so maintain detailed logs throughout your supervision period.
Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) Requirements
The LCSW-C is Maryland's highest level of social work licensure. It authorizes you to practice independently, provide psychotherapy, diagnose mental health conditions, and open a private practice. This license is essential for social workers who want to work in clinical mental health settings or establish independent practices.
Education Requirements
You need an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program with at least 12 credit hours of clinical coursework. These clinical courses must cover topics like psychopathology, diagnostic assessment, treatment planning, psychotherapy techniques, and clinical interventions.
Most MSW programs offer clinical concentrations that easily meet this requirement. If your MSW program had a different concentration (like macro practice or policy), you may need to take additional clinical courses before applying for LCSW-C.
Supervised Clinical Experience
The LCSW-C requires the same 3,000 total supervised hours as the LCSW, but with an important distinction: at least 1,500 of those hours must involve direct clinical care with clients. This includes psychotherapy, clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions.
Clinical supervision requirements:
- Supervision must be provided by an LCSW-C licensed in Maryland
- Your supervisor evaluates your clinical skills, case conceptualization, and therapeutic techniques
- Supervision includes case presentations, discussion of diagnostic impressions, treatment planning, and review of clinical documentation.
- You must demonstrate competence in assessing and treating mental health issues.
- The supervision contract must specify the clinical nature of the supervision.
The distinction between LCSW and LCSW-C supervision is significant. LCSW-C supervision focuses specifically on developing clinical mental health competencies, while LCSW supervision can be broader. Make sure your supervisor understands you're working toward clinical licensure so they provide appropriate clinical oversight.
Examination Requirements
All LCSW-C applicants must pass the ASWB Clinical examination. This is the most advanced exam in the ASWB series, testing your knowledge of clinical assessment, diagnosis (using DSM criteria), evidence-based treatment interventions, professional ethics in clinical practice, and psychotherapy techniques.
The exam is challenging. ASWB exam pass rates vary by year and test form. Recent historical data show pass rates typically ranging from 70-75% across exam levels, though specific rates fluctuate annually. Most candidates spend 3-6 months studying using ASWB practice materials, study guides, and review courses. You can retake the exam if you don't pass, but you'll need to pay the $260 fee again and wait 90 days between attempts.
Application Requirements
Your LCSW-C application package includes:
- Completed application form with $100 application fee
- Proof of current LGSW or LCSW licensure
- Official transcripts showing MSW degree and 12 clinical credits
- ASWB Clinical exam results
- Detailed verification of 3,000 supervised hours, including 1,500 clinical hours
- Clinical supervision contract
- LCSW-C supervisor's verification and clinical evaluation
- Professional resume highlighting clinical experience
- Three professional references (including your clinical supervisor)
- Criminal history records check
The board scrutinizes LCSW-C applications because this license grants independent clinical practice authority. Ensure your clinical hour documentation clearly distinguishes between direct clinical services and other social work activities.
Career Opportunities with LCSW-C
The LCSW-C opens the most career opportunities in Maryland's social work field. You can work independently in private practice, provide psychotherapy and diagnosis in mental health agencies, supervise other social workers, serve as a clinical director, and work in specialized settings like hospitals, hospice programs, or substance abuse treatment centers. The LCSW-C is also required for insurance reimbursement in most private practice settings.
The Importance of CSWE Accreditation
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the national organization that accredits social work degree programs in the United States. Maryland, like all 50 states, requires that your degree come from a CSWE-accredited program for you to be eligible for licensure.
CSWE accreditation ensures that programs meet rigorous educational standards. Accredited programs must demonstrate they're teaching core social work competencies, providing adequate field education, maintaining qualified faculty, and preparing students for professional practice. The accreditation process involves extensive self-study, peer review, and regular reaccreditation cycles.
Why Accreditation Matters
Graduating from a non-accredited program can be a career-ending mistake. The Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners won't accept degrees from non-accredited programs, even if the school is regionally accredited for other purposes. This means you won't be eligible to take licensure exams or obtain a social work license in Maryland or any other state.
Some programs are in "candidacy" status, meaning they're working toward accreditation but haven't completed the process yet. Maryland accepts degrees from programs that were in candidacy status while you were enrolled, as long as the program eventually receives full accreditation. However, this involves some risk, so it's safer to choose fully accredited programs.
How to Verify Accreditation
Before enrolling in any social work program, verify its accreditation status on the CSWE website. The CSWE maintains a searchable directory of all accredited BSW and MSW programs. You can search by state, program level, and delivery format (on-campus or online).
Don't rely solely on what a school tells you about its accreditation status. Always verify directly with CSWE. If you're considering an online MSW program, make sure CSWE explicitly accredits the online program, not just the school's on-campus program.
Search Accredited Social Work Programs
Maryland Social Worker Salaries and Job Outlook 2025
Social work offers stable employment and competitive salaries in Maryland, especially for those who advance to clinical licensure. The state's proximity to Washington, D.C., and the Baltimore metropolitan area creates strong demand across multiple practice settings.
Social Worker Salaries by Specialty
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024 data, Maryland social workers earn competitive salaries with significant variation based on specialty and license level:
| Social Work Specialty | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median Salary | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse Social Workers | $37,970 | $46,390 | $61,100 | $82,200 | $107,710 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $45,030 | $55,360 | $68,090 | $83,410 | $100,870 |
| Child, Family & School Social Workers | $40,580 | $47,480 | $58,570 | $74,060 | $94,030 |
| All Other Social Workers | $39,940 | $48,290 | $61,800 | $76,960 | $94,730 |
Clinical social workers with LCSW-C licenses typically earn toward the higher end of these ranges, especially in private practice, hospital settings, and specialized treatment programs. Geographic location within Maryland also affects salaries, with the Baltimore and Washington D.C. metro areas generally offering higher compensation than rural areas.
Employment Outlook
According to 2024 BLS data, Maryland employs approximately 13,710 social workers across all specialties. The Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metropolitan area and the Washington D.C. metro area (including Maryland suburbs) contain the largest concentrations of social work jobs.
The demand for mental health and substance abuse social workers continues to grow as awareness of mental health needs increases and more insurance plans cover behavioral health services. Healthcare settings also show steady demand as hospitals and medical centers recognize the value of social workers in patient care coordination and discharge planning.
School social workers remain in demand throughout Maryland's public school systems, particularly as schools expand mental health and trauma-informed care services. Child welfare agencies and family service organizations consistently seek qualified social workers, though these positions often require advanced licensure.
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence your earning potential as a Maryland social worker:
License level - LCSW-C holders earn significantly more than LBSW or LGSW licensees due to their ability to practice independently and bill insurance directly.
Practice setting - Private practice and hospital settings typically pay more than community agencies or school positions, though benefits packages vary.
Experience - Salaries increase steadily with years of experience, specialized training, and professional development.
Specialization - Niche specialties like trauma therapy, substance abuse treatment, or forensic social work may command higher salaries.
Geographic location - Urban and suburban areas generally offer higher salaries than rural communities, reflecting differences in cost of living and service demand.
Application Process and Timeline
Understanding Maryland's licensing application process helps you avoid common delays and move efficiently through each stage.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Complete your education (4-6 years depending on degree level)
Choose a CSWE-accredited BSW or MSW program. Verify accreditation before enrolling. Complete all required coursework and field education hours.
2. Apply for exam approval (2-4 weeks)
Submit your application to the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners requesting authorization to take the appropriate ASWB exam. Include official transcripts and the $100 application fee.
3. Take the ASWB examination (schedule when ready)
Once approved, schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. The exam costs $260. Study thoroughly using ASWB practice materials. You'll receive preliminary results immediately after completing the test.
4. Complete supervised hours (if pursuing LCSW or LCSW-C)
Begin accumulating supervised hours immediately after receiving your LGSW. Establish a formal supervision contract with a qualified supervisor. Document all supervision sessions and clinical activities meticulously.
5. Submit your license application (allow 6-8 weeks for processing)
Gather all required documents, including transcripts, exam results, supervision verification, references, and a criminal background check. Submit your complete application package with the appropriate fee. The board typically processes complete applications within 4-8 weeks, though complex applications may take longer.
6. Receive your license
Once approved, you'll receive your license certificate and license number. You can begin practicing immediately upon receiving your license. Maryland licenses must be renewed every two years, requiring continuing education credits.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Many applications get delayed because of preventable errors:
- Incomplete supervision documentation - Keep detailed logs from day one. Don't try to recreate documentation years later.
- Missing transcripts - Order official transcripts early, as schools can take weeks to process requests.
- Expired criminal background checks - Criminal history checks have time limits. Don't order them too early.
- Incorrect exam level - Make sure you're taking the right ASWB exam for your target license.
- Missing signatures - Double-check that all required forms are signed and dated.
- Waiting too long to apply - Submit your application promptly after meeting requirements. Delays can mean starting over with documentation.
Maintaining Your License
Maryland social work licenses expire every two years on your birth month. Renewal requires:
- Completion of continuing education hours (20 hours for most licenses, including 3 hours in ethics)
- Payment of renewal fee ($175)
- Attestation that you haven't committed any violations of the social work practice act
- Updated contact information
The board sends renewal notices by email, so keep your contact information current. If you let your license expire, you may need to pay late fees, retake exams, or complete additional requirements depending on how long the license has been expired.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed social worker in Maryland?
The timeline varies by license level. You can obtain an LBSW in about 4-5 years, including your bachelor's degree and application processing. For LGSW, plan on 6-7 years total (4 years for bachelor's, 2 years for master's, plus application time). Reaching LCSW-C typically takes 8-10 years from starting your bachelor's degree, including 2 years of post-master's supervised clinical practice. If you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, you can often complete an MSW in 2 years, reach LGSW status, and then work toward clinical licensure.
What's the difference between LCSW and LCSW-C in Maryland?
The LCSW is an advanced generalist license that allows for supervisory and administrative roles but not independent clinical practice. The LCSW-C specifically authorizes clinical mental health practice, including psychotherapy, diagnosis using DSM criteria, and independent private practice. LCSW-C requires 12 clinical credits in your MSW program, 1,500 hours of direct clinical care during supervision (out of 3,000 total hours), supervision by an LCSW-C (not just an LCSW), and passing the Clinical exam. Most social workers pursuing mental health careers should aim for LCSW-C rather than standard LCSW.
Can I get a Maryland social work license with an online degree?
Yes, Maryland accepts degrees from CSWE-accredited online programs. Many reputable universities offer accredited online social work programs with full CSWE accreditation. The key is verifying that the online program itself is CSWE-accredited, not just the school's on-campus program. Online programs still require in-person field placements in your local area, so you'll need to arrange practicum sites near where you live. The Maryland board treats online degrees from CSWE-accredited programs the same as on-campus degrees.
How much does the ASWB exam cost, and how hard is it?
The ASWB exam costs $260 regardless of which level you're taking. The exam difficulty varies by level, and pass rates fluctuate based on the specific test form and year. These are challenging professional exams requiring serious preparation. Most candidates study for 2-3 months using ASWB study guides, practice exams, and review courses. You can retake the exam if you don't pass, but you'll need to pay the $260 fee again and wait 90 days between attempts. The board allows up to 4 attempts per year.
Does Maryland accept social work licenses from other states?
Maryland offers licensure by endorsement for social workers licensed in other states. You must hold a current, active license in good standing from another jurisdiction, have passed an ASWB exam at the appropriate level, and meet Maryland's education requirements (CSWE-accredited degree). The process is more straightforward than applying as a new graduate. However, you still need to submit an application, pay fees, undergo a criminal background check, and provide verification of your out-of-state license. Maryland isn't part of any social work licensure compact, so you can't automatically practice in Maryland with an out-of-state license.
What is the salary for social workers in Maryland?
Maryland social workers earn competitive salaries that vary by specialty and license level. According to 2024 BLS data, mental health and substance abuse social workers earn a median salary of $61,100, with the top 10% earning over $107,710. Healthcare social workers have a median salary of $68,090. Child, family, and school social workers earn a median of $58,570. LCSW-C holders typically earn toward the higher end of these ranges, especially in private practice or hospital settings. Your exact salary depends on your license level, experience, specialization, and geographic location within Maryland.
Do I need malpractice insurance as a social worker in Maryland?
While Maryland law doesn't require malpractice insurance for social workers, it's highly recommended. Most employers provide coverage for social workers they employ, but you should verify this. If you engage in any private practice, consulting, or independent contract work, you absolutely need your own professional liability insurance. Policies are relatively affordable (often $200-500 annually for $1-2 million in coverage) and protect you from financial risk if a client files a complaint or lawsuit. Many professional insurance companies specialize in coverage for social workers and therapists.
Can I open a private practice with an LGSW in Maryland?
No, you can't operate an independent private practice with only an LGSW. Maryland law requires the LCSW-C license for independent clinical practice, which includes providing psychotherapy, making diagnoses, and billing insurance directly. With an LGSW, you can work in private practice settings, but only under the supervision of an LCSW-C. This is actually a common way to accumulate your supervised clinical hours while working toward LCSW-C licensure. Once you obtain your LCSW-C, you can then practice independently and open your own private practice.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland offers four social work license levels: LBSW (bachelor's), LGSW (master's), LCSW (advanced practice), and LCSW-C (clinical practice with independent diagnosis and therapy authority)
- All licenses require degrees from CSWE-accredited programs. Always verify accreditation before enrolling, as non-accredited degrees won't qualify you for licensure in any state.
- Clinical licensure (LCSW-C) requires 3,000 supervised hours, including 1,500 in direct clinical care, supervision by an LCSW-C, 12 clinical credits in your MSW, and passing the ASWB Clinical exa.m
- Maryland social workers earn competitive salaries, with mental health social workers earning a median of $61,100 and the top 10% earning over $107,710 annually.
- The complete path from a bachelor's degree to LCSW-C typically takes 8-10 years, including education and supervised clinical experience.e
- License renewal occurs every two years and requires 20 hours of continuing education, including 3 hours in ethics.
Ready to Start Your Social Work Career in Maryland?
Explore accredited social work programs that match your career goals, schedule, and location. Find BSW and MSW programs with CSWE accreditation to begin your path to licensure.
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Additional Resources for Social Workers in Maryland
The National Association of Social Workers Maryland Chapter provides continuing education, networking opportunities, and advocacy for social work professionals throughout the state. The organization offers resources for students, early career social workers, and experienced practitioners.
Related Resources:
- Maryland Psychologist Licensing
- Maryland Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Explore Additional Social Work Careers
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
