How to Become an LMSW in Michigan
To become an LMSW in Michigan, you’ll need a master’s degree in social work, 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and pass the ASWB Clinical Exam (Clinical designation) or ASWB Advanced Generalist (Macro designation). The full process typically takes 6–9 years (2 years MSW + 2–7 years supervised hours). Here’s your step-by-step roadmap.
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Earn your MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
Verified January 2026 · Official Michigan 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 LLMSW license ($43 fee)
Complete your supervised hours (this is the longest phase)
Have supervisor submit Verification of Supervised Experience form
Complete required coursework
Submit LMSW application to LARA ($43 fee)
Pass ASWB Clinical or Advanced Generalist Exam
- Hours4,000
- ExamsASWB Clinical Exam (Clinical designation) or ASWB Advanced Generalist (Macro designation)
- Initial board fees$86
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
| Llmsw Registration | $43 |
| LMSW Application | $43 |
| ASWB exam fee | ~$260 |
| MSW tuition | varies ($20k–$80k+) |
License renewal & CE requirements
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get LMSW in Michigan?
The total timeline for LMSW licensure in Michigan is estimated at 6–9 years total (2 years MSW + 2–7 years supervised hours). You will need MSW or doctoral degree from CSWE-accredited program, 4,000 hours of supervised experience, and must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam (Clinical designation) or ASWB Advanced Generalist (Macro designation).
What are the supervised hours requirements for LMSW in Michigan?
Michigan requires 4,000 hours of supervised experience over a minimum of 104 weeks (approximately 2 years).
What exam do I need to pass for LMSW in Michigan?
To obtain LMSW in Michigan, you must pass the ASWB Clinical Exam (Clinical designation) or ASWB Advanced Generalist (Macro designation).
What are the CE requirements for LMSW renewal in Michigan?
LMSW holders in Michigan must complete 45 hours of continuing education every 3 years. At least 5 hours must be in law and/or ethics. The renewal cycle is every 3 years from date of initial licensure.
Does Michigan offer reciprocity for LMSW?
Michigan does not have formal reciprocity for LMSW. No reciprocity. Endorsement: 10+ years licensed = experience documentation waived; fewer than 10 years = must document 4,000 hours.
Michigan LMSW licenses renew every 3 years from date of initial licensure. License holders must complete 45 continuing education hours per renewal cycle, including 5 hours in law and ethics. For the most current requirements, always verify with the official Michigan licensing board.