Understanding Clinical Social Worker Licensure in Delaware
In the state of Delaware, obtaining and maintaining a Clinical Social Worker license is a multi-step process that involves various applications and compliance with state regulations. Whether you are a new applicant, seeking reciprocity, or upgrading your license, understanding the requirements and processes involved is crucial for a smooth application experience. This guide aims to provide a clear overview of the licensing process, ensuring you have all the necessary information at your fingertips.
Types of Applications and When to Apply
There are several pathways to obtaining a Clinical Social Worker license in Delaware:
- Reapplication: Required if your previous Delaware license has expired for over a year or if your inactive license has been expired for over three years.
- Examination: Necessary if you are requesting approval to take the national ASWB licensing examination or if you have passed the exam but do not hold a current license in another jurisdiction.
- Reciprocity: Applicable if you have passed the ASWB exam and hold a current license in another jurisdiction.
- Upgrade: For those holding a current active license as a Licensed Bachelors or Masters Social Worker in Delaware obtained by examination or grandfather provision. Note that those who obtained their license by reciprocity do not qualify for an upgrade.
Using DELPROS for Licensing
Delaware Professional Regulation Online Services (DELPROS) is the online portal used for managing your license application. To apply, you must create a DELPROS user account:
- If you are new to Delaware licensing, select "My Information Not Found" to create an account.
- If you have previously applied or hold a license, enter your application or license number to proceed.
Once your account is set up, you can manage your application, upload necessary documents, and track the status through your e-License Dashboard. Remember, you have six months to complete and submit your application once you start it, or you will need to restart the process.
Requirements for All Applicants
Regardless of the type of application, all applicants must submit:
- A State of Delaware and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal background check.
- A completed and signed Child Protection Registry Consent Form.
- State/Jurisdiction Licensure Verification(s) sent directly from each state or jurisdiction where you hold or have held a social work license.
- An official ASWB exam score verification sent directly from ASWB.
Additional Requirements for U.S. and Foreign Educated Applicants
U.S. educated applicants must provide an official transcript from a CSWE-accredited institution. Foreign educated applicants must submit a credential evaluation from the International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service.
Renewal and Maintaining Your License
Social Worker licenses in Delaware expire on January 31 of odd-numbered years. Renewal notices are sent via email, and the renewal process is completed through DELPROS. It's essential to keep your contact information updated to receive all notices.
During renewal, you must attest to having completed the required continuing education units (CEs). Failure to renew on time results in license expiration, and practicing with an expired license is illegal. Late renewal is possible within one year with additional fees.
Inactive and Reactivating Licenses
If not practicing, you can place your license in inactive status through a Service Request in DELPROS. To resume practice, you must reactivate your license. If not reactivated within the period, you must reapply as a new applicant.
Fees for License Applications
All application fees are processed through DELPROS and are non-refundable. The application fee for Social Worker licenses (LCSW, BSW, MSW) is $205, while the Telehealth Registration fee is $50. Renewal fees vary and include late fees if applicable.
For more detailed information on Clinical Social Worker Licensure in Delaware, please follow this link.
