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How to Become a CSW-PIP in South Dakota

To become a CSW-PIP in South Dakota, youll need a master’s degree in social work, 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and pass 2 exams (ASWB Clinical Exam and ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam). The full process typically takes 6-8 years. Heres your step-by-step roadmap.

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Earn your MSW from a CSWE-accredited program

Verified March 2026 · Official South Dakota board →

Step-by-step roadmap

1

Earn your MSW (required)

  • Must be from a CSWE-accredited program
  • Typically ~2 years full-time; part-time programs available
  • Includes field placement hours — these do NOT count toward post-graduation supervised hours
2

Complete your supervised hours (this is the longest phase)

3

Complete your supervised hours (this is the longest phase)

4

Submit CSW-PIP application to the South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners

5

Pass ASWB Clinical or Advanced Generalist Exam

  • Hours3,000
  • ExamsASWB Clinical Exam, ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam
  • Initial board fees$0
  • Renewal$380 / 2 yrs

Traps to avoid

  • Assuming your school’s CSWE accreditation status without verifying — accreditation can lapse
  • Choosing a program based on cost alone without checking pass rates or field placement quality

Costs

LCSW Renewal$170
CSW Pip Renewal$210
ASWB exam fee~$260
MSW tuitionvaries ($20k–$80k+)

License renewal & CE requirements

Renew every 2 years — Every 2 years from date of initial licensure
30 CE hours per renewal cycle
6 hours must be law & ethics

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get CSW-PIP in South Dakota?

The total timeline for CSW-PIP licensure in South Dakota is estimated at 6-8 years total. You will need MSW or doctoral degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program, 3,000 hours of supervised experience, and must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam and ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam.

What are the supervised hours requirements for CSW-PIP in South Dakota?

South Dakota requires 3,000 hours of supervised experience over a minimum of 104 weeks (approximately 2 years).

What exam do I need to pass for CSW-PIP in South Dakota?

To obtain CSW-PIP in South Dakota, you must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam and the ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam.

What are the CE requirements for CSW-PIP renewal in South Dakota?

CSW-PIP holders in South Dakota must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. At least 6 hours must be in law and/or ethics. The renewal cycle is every 2 years from date of initial licensure.

Does South Dakota offer reciprocity for CSW-PIP?

No, South Dakota does not offer formal reciprocity for CSW-PIP. Contact the South Dakota licensing board for endorsement options.

South Dakota CSW-PIP licenses renew every 2 years from date of initial licensure. License holders must complete 30 continuing education hours per renewal cycle, including 6 hours in law and ethics. For the most current requirements, always verify with the official South Dakota licensing board.