Navigate Maryland's four-tier system in the Washington DC metro area, featuring compact membership and comprehensive clinical training pathways.
Maryland's comprehensive four-tier system provides clear progression from associate level to independent clinical practice in the DC metropolitan area.
Entry-level license for BSW graduates. Allows generalist social work practice under supervision including assessment, case management, and client advocacy.
Application: $100 + License: $70 • Biennial renewal • 40 CE hours including 3 ethics
Master's level entry license allowing advanced practice. Can provide clinical services under LCSW-C supervision and serves as foundation for advanced licensure.
Application: $100 + License: $75 • Biennial renewal • 40 CE hours including 3 ethics
Advanced generalist license allowing independent practice and supervision of other social workers. Provides pathway to clinical practice under supervision.
Application fee varies • 40 CE hours biennially including 3 ethics, 20 Category I
Highest level clinical license allowing independent clinical practice, psychotherapy, diagnosis, and clinical supervision. Enables private practice operation.
Application fee varies • 40 CE hours biennially including 3 ethics, 20 Category I
Comprehensive four-tier progression with interstate compact privileges and DC metro opportunities
Graduate from CSWE-accredited BSW (for LSWA) or MSW program (for LGSW/LCSW/LCSW-C). Maryland has excellent programs including online options.
4-6 YearsSubmit application with transcripts, background check, and references. Pass required ASWB exam (Bachelor's for LSWA, Master's for LGSW).
6-8 WeeksStart working under appropriate supervision. LGSW can begin accruing hours toward LCSW or LCSW-C under qualified supervisors.
ImmediateLCSW requires 2 years/3,000 hours generalist experience. LCSW-C requires 3,000 hours clinical experience with board-approved clinical supervisor.
2+ YearsSubmit advanced license application with supervision verification. Pass ASWB Advanced Generalist (LCSW) or Clinical (LCSW-C) examination.
3-4 MonthsMaryland is a full member of the Social Work Licensure Compact, allowing qualified LCSWs and LCSW-Cs to practice across participating states with multistate privileges.
Maryland social workers benefit from excellent compensation in the Washington DC metropolitan area, with LCSWs averaging $75,000+ annually and strong job growth projections.
All supervised experience must be under board-approved supervisors. Supervisors must submit approval forms to MBSWE before supervision begins.
LCSW and LCSW-C licensees must complete 20 of their 40 CE hours in Category I structured programs (workshops, seminars) plus 3 hours ethics.
LCSW-C applicants must have clinical focus in their MSW program and complete all clinical experience under LCSW-C supervision.
All Maryland licenses renew every 2 years on the last day of the licensee's birth month. Background checks required at ~$50 for all renewals.
health.maryland.gov/bswe
Maryland Department of Health
Available online through
board website
Full Member State
Multistate privileges available
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