How to Become an LCSW in Hawaii
To become an LCSW in Hawaii, you’ll need a master’s degree in social work, 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and pass the ASWB Clinical Exam. The full process typically takes 6-8 years. Here’s your step-by-step roadmap.
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Earn your MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Verified March 2026 · Official Hawaii 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
Complete your supervised hours (this is the longest phase)
Document at least 2,000 hours of assessment, clinical diagnosis, and psychotherapy; and 100 hours of face-to-face supervision (at least 60 individual)
Have supervisor complete and notarize the supervision verification form
Submit Hawaii LCSW application and supervised experience verification to DCCA PVL
Pass the ASWB Clinical Exam
- Hours3,000
- ExamsASWB Clinical Exam
- Board fees$525
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 | $60 |
| License Initial | $195 |
| Renewal | $270 |
| ASWB exam fee | ~$260 |
| MSW tuition | varies ($20k–$80k+) |
License renewal & CE requirements
How to become an LCSW in other states
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get LCSW in Hawaii?
The total timeline for LCSW licensure in Hawaii is estimated at 6-8 years total. You will need MSW from a CSWE-accredited or equivalent program, or doctoral degree in social work from a regionally accredited program, 3,000 hours of supervised experience, and must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam.
What are the supervised hours requirements for LCSW in Hawaii?
Hawaii requires 3,000 hours of supervised experience over a minimum of 104 weeks (approximately 2 years). At least 2,000 hours must be direct clinical or client contact.
What exam do I need to pass for LCSW in Hawaii?
To obtain LCSW in Hawaii, you must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam.
What are the CE requirements for LCSW renewal in Hawaii?
LCSW holders in Hawaii must complete 45 hours of continuing education every 3 years. At least 3 hours must be in law and/or ethics. The renewal cycle is June 30 of triennial year (2025, 2028, 2031, etc.), every 3 years.
Does Hawaii offer reciprocity for LCSW?
No, Hawaii does not offer formal reciprocity for LCSW. Contact the Hawaii licensing board for endorsement options.
Hawaii LCSW licenses renew june 30 of triennial year (2025, 2028, 2031, etc.), every 3 years. License holders must complete 45 continuing education hours per renewal cycle, including 3 hours in law and ethics. For the most current requirements, always verify with the official Hawaii licensing board.