Hey there, social workers! If you're practicing in Kentucky and need to reinstate your license, this guide is here to make the process as easy as possible. Whether your license expired recently or a while ago, we've got you covered with all the essential steps. Let's dive in!
Reinstatement Basics
According to KRS 335.130(1), you need to renew your social work license every three years to keep practicing in Kentucky. This renewal cycle is based on the date your initial license was issued.
If your license has expired, you must stop practicing immediately until it's reinstated. Here's how to get back on track:
Expired 3 Months or Less
- Complete the Licensure Renewal Form.
- Provide copies of your Continuing Education (CE) certificates or request a six-month extension.
- Write a letter explaining your employment history since your license expired.
- Pay the fees:
- License renewal fees: LSW $75, CSW $125, LSCW $200
- Late renewal penalty fee: $100
Once your reinstatement packet is reviewed, you'll receive an email notice from the board either requesting additional information or approving your reinstatement.
Expired More than 3 Months
- Complete the Licensure Renewal Form as if you're applying for licensure all over again.
- You may not need to resubmit official transcripts or ASWB Score Reports.
- Obtain current official verification of any out-of-state licenses.
- Provide copies of your CE certificates or request a six-month extension.
- Write a letter explaining your employment history since your license expired.
- Pay a $25 nonrefundable application review fee.
After your packet is reviewed, you'll get an email notice requesting additional information or approving your reinstatement and asking you to mail the required fees:
- License renewal fees: LSW $75, CSW $125, LSCW $200
- Late renewal penalty fee: $100
Continuing Education Requirements
CE hours are crucial for reinstatement:
- LSW: 15 hours in the three years preceding your request
- CSW & LCSW: 30 hours in the three years preceding your request
If you haven't completed the required CE credits, you can request a six-month extension. Remember, you'll still need to complete these hours for your next renewal period.
Out of State Licenses
If you're licensed in another state, you can apply online. Note that Kentucky does not have reciprocity with other states. If you've taken the ASWB exam, Kentucky accepts the Bachelor, Masters, and Clinical categories but not the Advanced Generalist exam.
You'll need to provide an "Official Transfer Score Report†from ASWB and an Official Transcript from your university. For LCSW applicants, Kentucky requires two years plus 150 hours of supervision by an approved LCSW or documentation of five years of clinical practice.
Temporary Licensure
There are two types of temporary permits:
- Non-Clinical Permits: For LSW or CSW not performing clinical social work.
- Clinical Permits: For CSW performing clinical social work under LCSW supervision.
Temporary permits last for 180 days and can be renewed for another 180 days. They can also be issued to out-of-state licensed persons for up to 90 days in one year.
For more information, please follow this link.
