How to Become an LCSW in Colorado
To become an LCSW in Colorado, you’ll need a master’s degree in social work, 3,360 hours of supervised clinical experience, and pass 2 exams (ASWB Clinical Exam and Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination). The full process typically takes 6–9 years (2 years MSW + 2–5 years supervised hours). Here’s your step-by-step roadmap.
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Earn your MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Verified October 2025 · Official Colorado board →
Step-by-step roadmap
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
Obtain LSW license
Register as Social Work Candidate (SWC) with DORA before accruing hours
Complete your supervised hours (this is the longest phase)
Ensure 96 hours supervision total (48 face-to-face individual, evenly distributed)
Earn your MSW (required)
Submit LCSW application via DORA ($70 fee)
Pass ASWB Clinical Exam
- Hours3,360
- ExamsASWB Clinical Exam, Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination
- Initial board fees$70
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
| Application | $70 |
| ASWB exam fee | ~$260 |
| MSW tuition | varies ($20k–$80k+) |
License renewal & CE requirements
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get LCSW in Colorado?
The total timeline for LCSW licensure in Colorado is estimated at 6–9 years total (2 years MSW + 2–5 years supervised hours). You will need MSW or doctoral degree from CSWE-accredited program, 3,360 hours of supervised experience, and must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam and Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination.
What are the supervised hours requirements for LCSW in Colorado?
Colorado requires 3,360 hours of supervised experience over a minimum of 104 weeks (approximately 2 years). At least 1,680 hours must be direct clinical or client contact.
What exam do I need to pass for LCSW in Colorado?
To obtain LCSW in Colorado, you must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam and the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination. Note that Colorado requires a state-specific jurisprudence or laws exam in addition to the national ASWB exam.
What are the CE requirements for LCSW renewal in Colorado?
LCSW holders in Colorado must complete 40 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal cycle is every 2 years from date of initial licensure.
Does Colorado offer reciprocity for LCSW?
Colorado does not have formal reciprocity for LCSW. Endorsement available for out-of-state LCSWs with equivalent degree and exam.
Colorado LCSW licenses renew every 2 years from date of initial licensure. License holders must complete 40 continuing education hours per renewal cycle. For the most current requirements, always verify with the official Colorado licensing board.