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Social Worker (LCSW) License in Virginia

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

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your VA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the ASWB Clinical Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the VA licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the ASWB Clinical Exam. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Virginia state board.

Requirements

Before applying for a Social Worker (LCSW) license in Virginia, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. VA 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 Virginia.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia starts at $275 for the application fee. VA requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in Virginia can add up to $88 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia

Base License Fee$275
Estimated Total$275

Renewal Process

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

License Expiry Calculator — Social Worker (LCSW) in VA

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

Additional Information

Working as a Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. VA has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Virginia also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Social Worker (LCSW) professionals.

Document Checklist — Social Worker (LCSW)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Virginia 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) NoneAK does not recognize VA Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts VA Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize VA Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize VA Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts VA Social Worker (LCSW) license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize VA Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize VA Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize VA Social Worker (LCSW) license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Virginia

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

Richmond

9960 Mayland Dr, Richmond, VA 23233

(804) 367-8500

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Virginia Beach

2401 Courthouse Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23456

(757) 385-4242

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Norfolk

810 Union St, Norfolk, VA 23510

(757) 664-4000

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Arlington

2100 Clarendon Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201

(703) 228-3000

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

Roanoke

215 Church Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24011

(540) 853-2000

Mon-Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Virginia Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Virginia 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.