Understanding Kentucky Social Work Licensure: A Comprehensive Guide
For social workers in Kentucky, maintaining an active license is crucial to continuing their practice legally. This guide provides an overview of the licensure process, renewal, reinstatement, and the steps necessary to ensure compliance with state regulations. Whether you are applying for a new license, renewing, or reinstating an expired license, understanding these processes will help you navigate the requirements efficiently.
Applying for a Social Work License in Kentucky
In Kentucky, social workers can apply for three types of licenses:
- Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
- Certified Social Worker (CSW)
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
The application fee for any of these licenses is $25. Once licensed, it's essential to keep track of your license's expiration date to avoid lapses in your ability to practice.
Renewal and Reinstatement
Licenses must be renewed every three years. The renewal fees are as follows:
- LSW: $75
- CSW: $125
- LCSW: $200
If your license has expired, you must immediately cease practicing social work in Kentucky until it is reinstated. The reinstatement process varies depending on how long your license has been expired:
Expired 3 Months or Less
- Complete the Licensure Renewal Form
- Submit Continuing Education (CE) certificates or request a six-month extension
- Provide employment history from the expiration date to reinstatement
- Pay renewal and late fees
Expired More Than 3 Months
- Complete the Licensure Renewal Form as a new application
- Submit CE certificates or request a six-month extension
- Provide employment history and a resume
- Pay application review fee; other fees will be requested upon approval
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your license, continuing education is required. LSWs need 15 hours, while CSWs and LCSWs require 30 hours of CE over three years. If you haven't completed these hours, you can request a six-month extension. Failing to complete CE requirements can result in your license expiring.
Temporary Licensure
Temporary permits are available for those who need them under specific conditions:
- Non-Clinical Permits for LSW or CSW not performing clinical work
- Clinical Permits for CSWs performing clinical work under supervision
Temporary permits are valid for 180 days and can be renewed once. They are also available to out-of-state licensed individuals for up to 90 days in a calendar year.
For more information, please follow this link.
