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Social Worker (LCSW) License in Tennessee

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Social Worker (LCSW) license in TN. 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 Tennessee.

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your TN application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the ASWB Clinical Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Social Worker (LCSW) in Tennessee, the licensing process begins with education. TN mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the ASWB Clinical Exam. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Tennessee regulatory board.

Requirements

Before applying for a Social Worker (LCSW) license in Tennessee, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. TN requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the ASWB Clinical Exam is a non-negotiable requirement in Tennessee.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Social Worker (LCSW) license in Tennessee requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in TN is $275, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $425 total when accounting for all associated costs in Tennessee.

License Fee Calculator — Social Worker (LCSW) in Tennessee

Base License Fee$275
Estimated Total$275

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Social Worker (LCSW) license in Tennessee requires timely renewal every 2 years. TN sets the renewal fee at $175. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the Tennessee board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in TN.

License Expiry Calculator — Social Worker (LCSW) in TN

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

Additional Information

The demand for licensed Social Worker (LCSW) professionals in Tennessee continues to grow. TN offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in Tennessee provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Social Worker (LCSW) professionals in TN 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 Tennessee 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 TN Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize TN Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts TN Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts TN Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize TN Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts TN Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Tennessee

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

Nashville

500 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN 37243

(615) 741-3449

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Memphis

125 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103

(901) 576-6000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Knoxville

400 Main St, Knoxville, TN 37902

(865) 215-2000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Chattanooga

101 E 11th St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

(423) 643-7800

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Clarksville

1 Public Square, Clarksville, TN 37040

(931) 645-7444

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Tennessee Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Tennessee 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.