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Washington Social Work Licensure Renewal Dates and CE Requirements

Washington Social Work Licensure Renewal Dates and CE Requirements

Navigating Social Work licensure in Washington requires a clear grasp of the renewal process, continuing education requirements, and the various credentials available to practitioners. As a field committed to enhancing community well-being, Social Work in Washington is governed by specific standards and regulations to ensure that professionals are well-prepared, both in terms of knowledge and ethical practice.

This blog post details the licensure renewal process, highlights essential dates and fees, and explores the various types of credentials that mental health practitioners can pursue in the state.

Whether you are a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), a Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW) gaining experience, or a Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA) focused on maintaining your status, this guide serves as a comprehensive resource.

Did you know? Agents of Change Continuing Education offers Unlimited Access to 150+ CE courses for one low annual fee to meet your state’s requirements for Continuing Education credits.

We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers with Continuing Education, learn more here about Agents of Change and claim your 5 FREE CEUs!

1) Key Washington Social Work Licensure Renewal Dates

A casual social worker meeting with community members outside in Washington. The scene is set in a park with lush green trees and a clear blue sky, capturing the friendly and collaborative atmosphere of the gathering. The social worker is dressed in casual, professional attire and is warmly engaging with a diverse group of community members, including children and adults, some of whom are sitting on benches while others stand and converse.

In Washington, the credentialing and licensure requirements for Social Workers are detailed and specific to ensure that practitioners are well-qualified and adhere to high standards. Below is an overview of the credentials, licensure renewal details, and associated costs:

Credentials

  1. Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA)
    • LSWAIC: Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical
    • LSWAIP: Licensed Social Work Associate Advanced
  2. Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
    • LICSW: Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
    • LASW: Licensed Advanced Social Worker

Licensure Requirements

LSWAIC (Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical)

  • Education: Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
  • Supervised Experience: Complete a supervised experience under a licensed independent clinical Social Worker.
  • Examination: Pass the ASWB Clinical exam.

LSWAIP (Licensed Social Work Associate Advanced)

  • Education: Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
  • Supervised Experience: Complete a supervised experience under a licensed advanced Social Worker.
  • Examination: Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam.

LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker)

  • Education: Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
  • Supervised Experience: 4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, including 1,000 hours of direct client contact.
  • Examination: Pass the ASWB Clinical exam.

LASW (Licensed Advanced Social Worker)

  • Education: Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
  • Supervised Experience: 3,200 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, including 800 hours of direct client contact.
  • Examination: Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam.

Licensure Renewal Details and Costs

Renewal Requirements

  • Continuing Education: 36 hours of continuing education every two years, including 6 hours in professional ethics.
  • Renewal Period: Every two years. Social Work licenses must be renewed annually by the last day of the licensee’s birth month.

Renewal Costs

  • LSWAIC/LSWAIP: $216
  • LICSW/LASW: $216

Fees for Specific Licenses

Initial Licensure Fees

  • Application Fee: $115
  • Initial License Fee: $130

Examination Fees

  • ASWB Clinical Exam: $260
  • ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam: $260

Additional Information

  • Fingerprinting and Background Check: Required for all applicants.
  • Jurisprudence Exam: Some applicants may need to pass a state jurisprudence exam, which assesses knowledge of state-specific laws and regulations governing Social Work practice.

Agents of Change Continuing Education offers Unlimited Access to 150+ CE courses for one low annual fee to meet Washington’s requirements for Continuing Education credits.

For more detailed information, please visit: Washington State Department of Health website and the Washington State Society for Clinical Social Work​ 

2) Washington Social Work Continuing Education Requirements

A diverse social worker meeting with community members indoors. The scene is set in a bright and welcoming community center with colorful walls and comfortable seating, capturing the friendly and supportive atmosphere of the gathering. The social worker is dressed in professional attire and is warmly interacting with a diverse group of community members, including people of different ages and backgrounds, with some seated in a circle and others standing and engaging in conversation.

In Washington, Social Workers are required to complete continuing education (CE) to renew their licenses. Here’s a detailed overview of the continuing education requirements:

General Continuing Education Requirements

  • Total Hours: Social Workers must complete 36 hours of continuing education every two years.
  • Ethics: At least 6 of these hours must be in professional ethics.
  • Suicide Assessment: For licensed Social Workers, 6 hours of continuing education must focus on suicide assessment, treatment, and management within the first year of licensure and before the first renewal.

Specific CE Requirements for License Types

  1. Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
    • Total CE Hours: 36 hours every two years.
    • Professional Ethics: 6 hours.
    • Suicide Assessment: 6 hours within the first year of licensure.
  2. Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW)
    • Total CE Hours: 36 hours every two years.
    • Professional Ethics: 6 hours.
    • Suicide Assessment: 6 hours within the first year of licensure.
  3. Licensed Social Worker Associate Independent Clinical (LSWAIC)
    • Total CE Hours: 18 hours annually.
    • Professional Ethics and Law: 6 hours every two years.
    • Suicide Assessment: 6 hours before the first renewal.
  4. Licensed Social Worker Associate Advanced (LSWAIP)
    • Total CE Hours: 18 hours annually.
    • Professional Ethics and Law: 6 hours every two years.
    • Suicide Assessment: 6 hours before the first renewal.

Key Points

  • Approved Courses: Continuing education activities must be approved by recognized bodies such as the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).
  • Record Keeping: Social workers must maintain records of their continuing education activities, including certificates of completion, for at least four years.
  • Online Learning: Online courses and webinars can count towards CE hours if they are approved by the appropriate accrediting organizations.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, you can refer to the Washington State Department of Health and specific continuing education guidelines provided by professional organizations like the Washington State Society for Clinical Social Work.

Agents of Change Continuing Education is a great way to meet Washington’s CE requirements and track your completed CEUs, with over 150 courses that meet these requirements!

Agents of Change, #1919, is approved as an ACE provider to offer Social Work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit.

3) FAQs – Washington Social Work Licensure Renewal and CEUs

Q: What are the continuing education requirements for Social Workers in Washington?

A: In Washington, Social Workers are required to complete 36 hours of continuing education every two years. This must include:

  • Professional Ethics: At least 6 hours in professional ethics.
  • Suicide Assessment, Treatment, and Management: 6 hours within the first year of licensure and before the first renewal for all licensed Social Workers.
  • Record Keeping: Social Workers must keep records of their continuing education activities, including certificates of completion, for at least four years. Approved courses must be recognized by bodies such as the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Online courses and webinars can count towards CE hours if approved by the appropriate accrediting organizations.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Washington State Department of Health – Continuing Education Requirements.

Q: What are the licensure requirements for becoming a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Washington?

A: To become a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Washington, the requirements include:

  • Education: A Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
  • Supervised Experience: Completion of 4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, which includes 1,000 hours of direct client contact.
  • Examination: Passing the ASWB Clinical exam.
  • Additional Requirements: Submission of official transcripts, proof of supervised experience, and other documentation as required by the Washington State Department of Health.

For detailed steps and application forms, refer to the Washington State Department of Health – Social Worker Licensure Information.

Q: How much does it cost to renew a Social Work license in Washington?

A: The renewal fees for Social Work licenses in Washington are as follows:

  • Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW): $216 every two years.
  • Licensed Social Worker Associate Independent Clinical (LSWAIC) and Licensed Social Worker Associate Advanced (LSWAIP): $216 every two years.
  • Late Renewal Penalty: $50
  • Expired License Reissuance: $72.50
  • Duplicate License: $10
  • Verification of Credential: $25

These fees ensure that Social Workers maintain their licensure and continue to meet professional standards. Detailed information can be found on the Washington State Department of Health – Fee Schedule.

Resources for CE: Agents of Change Continuing Education offers over 150 courses that meet Washington’s CE requirements. Regulatory boards have the final say on courses accepted for continuing education credit.

4) Conclusion

Navigating the licensure process for Social Workers in Washington requires a clear understanding of the various credentialing options, continuing education requirements, and associated costs. Whether you are an aspiring Social Worker or an experienced practitioner, meeting these standards is crucial for maintaining your professional status and ensuring the highest level of care for your clients.

The Washington State Department of Health provides detailed guidelines and resources to assist you in fulfilling these requirements, from initial licensure to ongoing education and renewal.

Continuing education plays a vital role in keeping Social Workers updated with the latest knowledge and practices in the field. By fulfilling the mandatory continuing education hours, including ethics and specialized training in suicide assessment, Social Workers can enhance their skills and stay current with evolving professional standards. These educational requirements not only help in professional growth but also ensure that Social Workers are well-equipped to address the diverse needs of their communities effectively.

Resources like Agents of Change Continuing Education provide accessible and varied learning opportunities for Social Workers to meet Continuing Education requirements. Learn more about Agents of Change Continuing Education.

We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers with their Continuing Education and want you to be next!

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► Learn more about the Agents of Change Continuing Education here: https://agentsofchangetraining.com

About the Instructor, Meagan Mitchell: Meagan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been providing Continuing Education for Social Workers for more than 10 years. From all of this experience helping others pass their exams, she created Agents of Change Continuing Education to help Social Workers stay up-to-date on the latest trends, research, and techniques.

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Disclaimer: This content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

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