Licensure Roadmap← Back to SWTP

How to Become an LSW in Nevada

To become an LSW in Nevada, youll need a bachelor’s degree in social work and pass the ASWB Bachelors Exam. The full process typically takes 4-5 years (BSW program + exam). Heres your step-by-step roadmap.

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Earn your MSW from a CSWE-accredited program

Verified March 2026 · Official Nevada board →

Step-by-step roadmap

1

Earn your BSW (required)

  • Must be from a CSWE-accredited program
  • Typically ~4 years full-time
  • Includes field placement hours — these do NOT count toward post-graduation supervised hours
2

Submit application to Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers

3

Pass ASWB Bachelors Exam

  • ExamsASWB Bachelors Exam
  • Initial board fees$200
  • Renewal$188 / 1 yr

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$200
Renewal$188
ASWB exam fee~$260
BSW tuitionvaries ($20k–$80k+)

License renewal & CE requirements

Renew every 1 year — Annually by end of birth month
36 CE hours per renewal cycle

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to get LSW in Nevada?

To obtain LSW in Nevada, you need BSW from CSWE-accredited program. You must pass the ASWB Bachelors Exam. The application fee is $200. The estimated timeline is 4-5 years (BSW program + exam).

What are the CE requirements for LSW renewal in Nevada?

LSW holders in Nevada must complete 36 hours of continuing education every 1 year. The renewal cycle is annually by end of birth month.

Can I practice clinical social work with LSW in Nevada?

No, the LSW does not authorize independent clinical practice in Nevada. You would need to obtain the LCSW for that, which requires additional supervised clinical experience and passing the ASWB Clinical Exam.

Nevada LSW licenses renew annually by end of birth month. License holders must complete 36 continuing education hours per renewal cycle. For the most current requirements, always verify with the official Nevada licensing board.

Other states offering the LSW