ND Seal ND Board of Social Work Examiners

North Dakota Requirements for LMSW Licensure

  • Master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited college or university or a Canadian college or university accredited by Canadian Association for Social Work Education. The degree must be in social work; no other degree will be accepted!
  • Passing score on the ASWB Master’s level exam.
  • Before 8/1/2019, this level was known as the LCSW level and may still be reflected as such on some forms and information as we work to update them. The LCSW is now the clinical level. 

Methods of Applying for LMSW Licensure

Application for Initial Licensure

This method is for individuals who are not currently licensed in another state/jurisdiction.  The applicant must successfully complete the ASWB Master's level exam within one year from the date the application for licensure is filed with the NDBSWE office.

Application for Initial Licensure
 

Application for Licensure by Reciprocity

This method is for individuals who are currently licensed as a social worker in another state/jurisdiction.  The requirements for licensure in the other state/jurisdiction must be similar to or more stringent than North Dakota requirements (see requirements listed above).

Application for License by Reciprocity