Pursuing a career in social work is a noble endeavor that requires dedication and a commitment to helping others. In Texas, the path to becoming a licensed social worker involves several steps, from obtaining the necessary education to passing exams and submitting applications. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining your Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) or Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) certification in Texas.
Initial Steps: Exam Preapproval and Registration
The journey begins with applying for exam preapproval with the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC). You can initiate this process by visiting the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) website, where you'll find the “Apply for Exam Preapproval Now” link. This step requires a $60 fee.
Upon receiving confirmation from BHEC, the next step is to register for the ASWB social work licensing exam. Again, visit their website and click on “Register for Social Work Licensing Exam.” The registration fee is $230. This is a comprehensive four-hour exam consisting of 170 multiple-choice questions.
If you are still in school, you have the option to take the exam early, provided your advisor sends a letter to ASWB verifying your eligibility. You can sit for the exam during your last semester—beginning January 1 if you graduate in May or June 1 if you graduate in August.
Post-Graduation: Application Process
After successfully passing the exam, you can begin the application process with BHEC on your official graduation day. Visit the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners website.
The application process requires several documents:
- Application for Licensure - Form A: Complete and submit this form online.
- Copy of Government-issued Photo Identification: Ensure it's valid and clear.
- Application Fee: Pay $109. If you’re a veteran, you can submit a copy of your DD214 to waive this fee and expedite processing.
- Official College Transcript: This must verify your BSW or MSW from a CSWE-accredited program. Confirm with your advisor regarding the conferral date on your transcript.
The Jurisprudence Exam and Additional Requirements
An essential part of this process is completing the Jurisprudence Exam. This is a no-fail online test consisting of 126 questions and costs $39. Visit the Jurisprudence Exam page for more details.
You will also need to submit:
- NPDB Self-Query Report: Verify that your self-query information matches what is on file with the National Practitioner Data Bank. Begin this process at their website.
- If Previously Licensed Elsewhere: Submit Verification of Licensure in Other Jurisdiction - Form II.
- Examination Security Information Form – Form VII: This confirms you're not taking the exam on behalf of someone else.
- Social Work Employment History Form – Form I:
The final step involves submitting fingerprints for a background check, which carries an additional $50 fee.
Your Study Resources
The DiNitto Career Center offers valuable resources for current students and alumni up to six months post-graduation. They provide study guides and access to online practice tests. Here’s what they offer:
- Study Guide (DSM V): Available for 14-day checkout with up to three extensions when there’s no waitlist.
- Online Testing Materials (DSM V): The first account is free; additional accounts cost $10 each.
If you have questions about these resources, contact the DiNitto Center at dccs@austin.utexas.edu or call (512) 232-7362.
A Final Note
Pursuing licensure as a social worker in Texas can be complex but rewarding. Each step brings you closer to making a meaningful impact in your community. For more detailed information about this process, please follow thislink.
