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Social Worker (LCSW) License in North Dakota

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Social Worker (LCSW) license in ND. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$275

Processing Time

4-8 Weeks

Exam Required

ASWB Clinical Exam

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Social Worker (LCSW) license in North Dakota.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Social Worker (LCSW) training program in North Dakota.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your ND application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the ASWB Clinical Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the North Dakota licensing board and pay the $275 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-8 weeks in ND. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

The path to becoming a licensed Social Worker (LCSW) in North Dakota involves several key steps. First, complete an approved education program recognized by ND. Next, prepare for and successfully pass the ASWB Clinical Exam. Finally, gather your documentation and submit your license application through the North Dakota state licensing portal.

Requirements

North Dakota has specific requirements for Social Worker (LCSW) licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to provide counseling and social services to individuals and families. A clean background check is mandatory in ND, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The ASWB Clinical Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the North Dakota board.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Social Worker (LCSW) license in North Dakota is approximately $275. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. ND also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in North Dakota may incur additional penalties of up to $69.

License Fee Calculator — Social Worker (LCSW) in North Dakota

Base License Fee$275
Estimated Total$275

Renewal Process

License renewal for Social Worker (LCSW) professionals in North Dakota occurs on a 2-year cycle. ND charges a renewal fee of $175 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in North Dakota at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Social Worker (LCSW) in ND

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. North Dakota requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

The demand for licensed Social Worker (LCSW) professionals in North Dakota continues to grow. ND offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in North Dakota provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Social Worker (LCSW) professionals in ND report high job satisfaction and competitive compensation.

Document Checklist — Social Worker (LCSW)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My North Dakota Social Worker (LCSW) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts ND Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize ND Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts ND Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts ND Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize ND Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.

Where to File Locally in North Dakota

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Bismarck

600 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58505

(701) 328-9660

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fargo

200 3rd St N, Fargo, ND 58102

(701) 241-1310

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Grand Forks

255 N 4th St, Grand Forks, ND 58203

(701) 746-2600

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Minot

515 2nd Ave SW, Minot, ND 58701

(701) 857-4750

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Mandan

205 2nd Ave NW, Mandan, ND 58554

(701) 667-3200

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official North Dakota Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the North Dakota state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.