Licensed Clinical Social Worker License in New York
Quick Answer
New York licenses social workers as LMSW or LCSW (no bachelor's-level license), with the LCSW requiring three years of supervised clinical experience — longer than most states. Licenses renew every three years. Total estimated initial costs are approximately $580. New York was prominent in ASWB exam equity debates.
- Exam
- ASWB Exam (level varies)
- Total Cost
- $580 (est.)
- Timeline
- 4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 3 years
Requirements
Licensed Clinical Social Worker license in New York
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $200
- Exam Fee
- $230
- Renewal Fee
- $150
- Total Estimated Cost
- $580
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Licensed Clinical Social Worker license in New York. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the New York licensing board.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Salary in New York
Entry Level
$55,610
Median
$75,020
Experienced
$105,560
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York.
- 1
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 2
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$200.
- 3
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing).
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Licensing in New York: What to Know
New York licenses social workers through the State Education Department, offering Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentials. Notably, New York does not offer a bachelor's-level social work license. The LCSW requires an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program, passage of the ASWB Clinical exam, and at least three years of supervised clinical experience — longer than most states. New York uses a triennial renewal cycle rather than biennial. Continuing education of 36 hours is required every three years. New York was among the most prominent states in the ASWB exam controversy, with the state legislature and professional organizations actively debating alternatives to the exam. Columbia University, New York University, Hunter College, and Fordham University are among the nation's most prestigious social work programs. New York City has the highest concentration of social workers of any metro area in the nation. The state has explored the Social Work Licensure Compact but faces unique considerations due to its large workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Licensed Clinical Social Worker license cost in New York?
- The estimated total cost is $580, including application fees, exam fees ($230), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Licensed Clinical Social Worker license in New York?
- The process typically takes 4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Licensed Clinical Social Worker license in New York?
- You need to pass the ASWB Exam (level varies). N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Licensed Clinical Social Worker requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.