How to Become an LICSW in North Dakota
To become an LICSW in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota 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
Submit Supervision Plan to NDBSWE for approval before beginning hours
Complete your supervised hours (this is the longest phase)
Have supervisor and employer submit verification forms to NDBSWE
Submit LICSW application with $25 fee and official transcript ($75 fee)
Pass ASWB Clinical Exam within 1 year of application filing
- Hours3,000
- ExamsASWB Clinical Exam
- Initial board fees$125
- Renewal$75 / 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
| Application | $25 |
| License Initial | $75 |
| Upgrade Fee | $25 |
| Renewal | $75 |
| ASWB exam fee | ~$260 |
| MSW tuition | varies ($20k–$80k+) |
License renewal & CE requirements
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get LICSW in North Dakota?
The total timeline for LICSW licensure in North Dakota is estimated at 6-8 years total. You will need MSW or doctoral degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited (or CASWE-accredited) program, 3,000 hours of supervised experience, and must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam.
What are the supervised hours requirements for LICSW in North Dakota?
North Dakota requires 3,000 hours of supervised experience over a minimum of 104 weeks (approximately 2 years). The supervision plan must be board-approved before hours can begin counting.
What exam do I need to pass for LICSW in North Dakota?
To obtain LICSW in North Dakota, you must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam.
What are the CE requirements for LICSW renewal in North Dakota?
LICSW holders in North Dakota must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. At least 2 hours must be in law and/or ethics. The renewal cycle is every 2 years from date of initial licensure.
Does North Dakota offer reciprocity for LICSW?
No, North Dakota does not offer formal reciprocity for LICSW. Contact the North Dakota licensing board for endorsement options.
North Dakota LICSW licenses renew every 2 years from date of initial licensure. License holders must complete 30 continuing education hours per renewal cycle, including 2 hours in law and ethics. For the most current requirements, always verify with the official North Dakota licensing board.