Are you a social worker in Michigan or planning to become one? Understanding the licensing and renewal process is crucial for maintaining your credentials and continuing your professional journey. In this blog, we'll cover the key points you need to know about initial licenses, renewals, continuing education, and specific training requirements.
Initial Licenses and Renewals
In Michigan, social work licenses are issued through the MIPLUS system. Here's a quick overview:
- Limited Licenses: Valid for one year from the date of issuance and can be renewed up to six times.
- Full Licenses: Valid for three years from the date of issuance. Renewal notifications are sent by email and postal mail 90 days before expiration.
Remember to update your contact information through your MIPLUS account to ensure you receive renewal notifications.
Renewal Requirements
Limited licenses are primarily for gaining experience toward a full license. Full licenses require periodic renewals, and it's important to note the following:
- All licensure requirements must be completed within two years of application receipt. Failure to do so will void the application, and fees will be forfeited.
- Continuing Education (CE) credits are essential for license renewal. While proof of CE completion is not required during renewal, documentation must be retained for four years in case of an audit.
Special Training Requirements
There are specific training requirements that all social workers in Michigan must complete:
- Human Trafficking Training: A one-time training required for initial licensure and all renewals. This training covers identifying victims of human trafficking and the necessary resources for reporting.
- Implicit Bias Training: Effective June 1, 2022, new applicants must complete two hours of training within the five years preceding licensure. Renewing licensees must complete one hour of training for each year of their license cycle.
Note that implicit bias training is separate from continuing education requirements and should involve interactive opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about social work licensing in Michigan:
- How many times can I renew my Limited license? Up to six times, primarily to gain experience for a full license.
- How will the State know how many Continuing Education credits I have earned? Documentation must be retained for four years and submitted if selected for an audit.
- Is Human Trafficking training a one-time requirement? Yes, it's required for initial licensure and renewals.
- How do I earn work experience for a full license? Experience must be gained under a Michigan-licensed master's social worker while holding a Limited license.
- What exams are accepted in Michigan? Michigan accepts the ASWB Bachelor's, Advanced Generalist, and Clinical exams.
- When does the Implicit Bias training requirement go into effect? June 1, 2022.
- Can I complete the Implicit Bias Training online? Yes, as long as it includes interactive opportunities.
Staying informed about these requirements will help you maintain your license and continue providing valuable services to your community.
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