Are you ready to take the next step in your career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Montana? Navigating the licensing process can seem daunting, but we're here to break it down into manageable steps. Whether you're already practicing in another jurisdiction or just starting your journey, this guide will help you understand the requirements and get you on the path to success.
Understanding the Basics
First things first, let’s clarify who this checklist is for. This guide is for applicants who have already completed 3,000 hours of supervised work experience. If you haven’t met this requirement yet, don’t worry! You can still qualify as an LCSW candidate. Check out the LCSW candidate application checklist for more information.
License Requirements for LCSWs Not Currently Licensed in Another Jurisdiction
To become an LCSW in Montana, you need to meet the following minimum requirements:
- A master's degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or a program currently in CSWE candidacy status.
- Proof of completion of 3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised work experience over a minimum of 24 months.
- Submit fingerprints to the Montana Department of Justice for a fingerprint and background check.
- Proof of passage of the Association of Social Work Boards' (ASWB) clinical licensing exam within four years of the date of application.
License Requirements for LCSWs Currently Licensed in Another Jurisdiction
If you are already licensed in another state or jurisdiction, you have a couple of options:
- Meet all the criteria mentioned above for applicants not currently licensed, OR
- Hold a current, active license in good standing in another state or jurisdiction with equivalent licensing requirements to Montana, AND
- Have completed supervised post-degree work that meets Montana's requirements.
- Have passed an exam as described above.
- Submit fingerprints to the Montana Department of Justice for a fingerprint and background check.
- You can also count experience for education if:
- Your degree is at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits.
- You have completed five years of post-degree experience in clinical social work in addition to the supervised work experience.
Checklist of Required Documents
Here’s a handy checklist of documents you’ll need to submit with your application:
- Official license verification from states and jurisdictions where you have held a professional license.
- If applicable, a detailed explanation and documentation of any disciplinary actions.
- Certified education transcript(s) sent directly from your college or university.
- Completed fingerprint and background check results sent directly from the Montana Department of Justice.
- Noncriminal Justice Applicant's Rights form.
- Proof of passage of the ASWB exam sent directly from the ASWB.
- Proof of completion of 3,000 hours of supervised experience.
Note: Applicants currently licensed in another jurisdiction may submit that jurisdiction's documentation showing completion of those hours, or complete the Montana Evaluation of Supervisory Experience form if that jurisdiction's supervisor(s) is available to sign the form.
Application Fee
The application fee for the LCSW license is $200. You can apply online using a credit card or e-check. If you prefer a paper application, you must submit a check (do not mail cash).
Apply online at this link or download a paper application from the website. Online application is recommended.
For more information, please follow this link.
