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Hawaii Social Work — Requirements & Free Practice

US-HI · License preparation

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Licensed Bachelor Social Worker

Ordinary social worker license tier recognized by HRS §§467E-1, 467E-1.5 and 467E-2. Government employment, student, faculty and clinical-intern exemptions under HRS §467E-6 confer exemptions within their limits rather than another issued license.

Licensing authority: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Director, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, Social Worker Program · Application information

Licensure by endorsement
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A bachelor's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program.
Endorsement
The director may honor the ASWB passing score for the category required in Hawaii and used by the jurisdiction that licensed the applicant; the remaining requirements under HRS §§467E-7 and 467E-9 apply.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB A-level score as historical prior evidence; it is a condition, not a current examination alternative.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Initial licensure by examination or existing qualifying score
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A bachelor's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program.
Exam authorization
DCCA approval and an eligibility letter precede registration to sit; the application states a one-year eligibility letter for LBSW/LCSW and a two-year letter for LSW.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB A-level score as historical prior evidence; it is a condition, not a current examination alternative.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Restoration or extension after active duty crisis deployment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional documents
Provide financial-integrity or federally required documentation if required for renewal.
Application window
Request restoration within 120 days after discharge or release from deployment; provide call-up and release orders and pay the current renewal fee.
Excluded cases
Scheduled annual or specialized training does not qualify; suspended, revoked or otherwise adjudicated disciplinary licenses are excluded.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Military deployment
A member of the armed forces, National Guard or reserves whose license expires, is forfeited or delinquent during active duty deployment in a state or national crisis may use HRS §436B-14.5.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Upcoming expiration
The provision also covers a current license expiring within 120 days after discharge or release.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Expedited endorsement for a nonresident military spouse
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A bachelor's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB A-level score as historical prior evidence; it is a condition, not a current examination alternative.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Military spouse
A nonresident military spouse may demonstrate profession-specific competency as determined by the authority in lieu of a specified prior-practice duration, unless otherwise provided by law; the authority expedites endorsement.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Underlying pathway
Honor the qualifying ASWB category score and meet the remaining Hawaii qualifications.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Expedited reciprocity for a nonresident military spouse
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A bachelor's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB A-level score as historical prior evidence; it is a condition, not a current examination alternative.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Military spouse
A nonresident military spouse may demonstrate profession-specific competency as determined by the authority in lieu of a specified prior-practice duration, unless otherwise provided by law; the authority expedites reciprocity.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Underlying pathway
The director must establish the reciprocity agreement and find the other licensing requirements equal or greater.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
New license after revocation
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Discretionary waiver
The authority may waive education or examination requirements upon documented equivalent maintained knowledge, competence and qualifications through experience, training or education; the discretion is a condition and does not remove the registered exam leaves.
Education
A bachelor's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB A-level score as historical prior evidence; it is a condition, not a current examination alternative.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Waiting period
A new application is permitted after five years from the effective date of revocation.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Reactivation of inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current requirements
Fulfill reactivation requirements in effect at application and any fitness information the authority requests under HRS §436B-13.3(c)(5).
Fees
Pay the reactivation fee and the renewal and compliance-resolution amounts applicable to whether active or inactive renewal fees were paid; the social-worker table lists no other requirement.
Fitness disclosure
Disclose convictions since inactivation, subsequent sanctions and pending disciplinary actions; provide details and supporting agency or court documents for affirmative answers.
Inactive license
Hold an existing inactive Hawaii license and submit the signed reactivation application.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by reciprocity
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A bachelor's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB A-level score as historical prior evidence; it is a condition, not a current examination alternative.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Reciprocity
Requires a director-established reciprocity agreement and an existing license in its participating jurisdiction, whose licensing requirements the director deems equal to or greater than current Hawaii requirements; director approval is discretionary.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Cessation of conviction based revocation or denial after appellate reversal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Other causes
The director may still pursue discipline based on a cause other than the overturned conviction.
Overturned conviction
If the related conviction is overturned on appeal, the revocation or denial under HRS §467E-12.5 automatically ceases.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(e), overturned-conviction consequence

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Reinstatement of suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application and all applicable reinstatement, compliance-resolution and recovery-fund fees.
Individual order
Any individualized assessment or remedial requirement in the suspension order remains an applicant condition; the general reinstatement provision names no separate profession examination.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Suspension order
Reinstatement is permitted to the extent authorized by law upon complete compliance with every term or condition in the suspension order; suspension may not exceed five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-20.html

    HRS §436B-20, complete reinstatement provision

  • 467e-12.html

    HRS §467E-12(a), licensing discipline applies to renewal, reinstatement and restoration

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Relicensure after more than one year of forfeiture
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A bachelor's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB A-level score as historical prior evidence; it is a condition, not a current examination alternative.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Termination
Failure to restore within one year automatically terminates the license; relicensure may require a new application meeting all current licensing requirements.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Triennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12.html

    HRS §467E-12(a), licensing discipline applies to renewal, reinstatement and restoration

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Restoration within one year after forfeiture
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Forfeiture window
Apply in writing within one year of license expiration and pay renewal, penalty, compliance-resolution and applicable restoration fees; audited licensees must document CE compliance.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 436b-14.html

    HRS §436B-14, restoration and new application

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Licensed Bachelor Social Worker — Temporary Military and Military Spouse Professional License

The temporary professional license type listed in the DCCA military and military-spouse application, at the corresponding social-worker license tier. State military-spouse qualifications and current federal delayed-recognition issuance are separate applicant pathways.

Licensing authority: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Director, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, Social Worker Program · Application information

Temporary issuance during delayed recognition of a military covered license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
Provide a notarized affidavit of identity and complete truthful application information, understanding and compliance with Hawaii licensing and practice requirements, and good standing in all jurisdictions where licensed.
Background check
The licensing authority may conduct a background check before recognizing the covered license or issuing the temporary license.
Compact exception
50 U.S.C. §4025a does not apply to a covered multi-jurisdiction license held pursuant to an interstate compact; that applicant remains subject to the compact and applicable jurisdiction law.
Covered license
Hold a covered license in good standing, without revocation or discipline, a pending unprofessional-conduct investigation, or surrender while under such investigation, as defined in 50 U.S.C. §4025a(f)(1).
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist duration
The MST-1224 checklist describes temporary practice for the duration of the active-duty military member’s Hawaii service; subsection (b) of the current federal law governs issuance during delayed covered-license recognition.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded. The December 23, 2024 amendment of 50 U.S.C. §4025a replaced the earlier federal text; the current statutory application list does not state a two-year active-use criterion.
Military orders
Be a servicemember, or the spouse of a servicemember, relocating residence to Hawaii because of military-service orders; provide proof of the orders and, for a spouse, a marriage certificate.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Temporary issuance
This route is the Hawaii temporary license permitted by 50 U.S.C. §4025a(b) when the authority cannot carry out covered-license recognition within 30 days after receiving the statutory application; it carries the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as a permanent license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary licensure for a qualified military spouse
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Affidavit and criminal history
Pay applicable fees, have no disqualifying criminal history determined by the licensing authority, and submit the signed affidavit covering the accuracy of qualifications, examination, experience, employment and criminal-history information.
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded.
Discipline
Satisfy the limits on prior restrictions, suspension, revocation, surrender, denial and discipline in HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(8); unresolved discipline may lead to denial until all terms are satisfied.
Examination evidence
HRS §436B-14.7(a)(5) requires passage of the examination requirements if required by Hawaii or another jurisdiction; another jurisdiction-specific examination is an applicant condition rather than a leaf.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Other license
Have held the qualifying United States jurisdiction license for at least one year, with current active unencumbered good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Qualification verification
The other jurisdiction must verify that its minimum education, applicable experience and clinical supervision requirements were met when it licensed the applicant.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Spouse status
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany the member on an official permanent change of station to a military installation in Hawaii.
Term
For the subsection (a) license, the ordinary professional license period applies, subject to a maximum of five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Cessation of temporary license conviction discipline after appellate reversal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Overturned conviction
The revocation or denial under HRS §467E-12.5 ceases automatically if its related conviction is overturned; other discipline and remaining temporary-license eligibility still apply.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(e), overturned-conviction consequence

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Reinstatement of eligible suspended temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Suspension order
Comply completely with the suspension order and submit all applicable fees under HRS §436B-20; temporary-license eligibility must also be satisfied.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-20.html

    HRS §436B-20, complete reinstatement provision

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(11), discipline, fees and affidavit

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Renewal of eligible temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-13.html

    HRS §436B-13(a)-(c), renewal of each license

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • lbsw-spouse.pdf

    MST-1224 checklist page, practice, discipline and continuing education

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Restoration of eligible forfeited temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Forfeiture window
Request restoration in writing within one year of forfeiture, satisfy renewal requirements, and pay applicable renewal, penalty and compliance-resolution fees; the temporary eligibility and maximum term must still permit issuance.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-14.html

    HRS §436B-14, restoration and new application

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Temporary practice while a military spouse completes Hawaii licensing requirements
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Affidavit and criminal history
Pay applicable fees, have no disqualifying criminal history determined by the licensing authority, and submit the signed affidavit covering the accuracy of qualifications, examination, experience, employment and criminal-history information.
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded.
Discipline
Satisfy the limits on prior restrictions, suspension, revocation, surrender, denial and discipline in HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(8); unresolved discipline may lead to denial until all terms are satisfied.
Education and experience
The applicable full-license education and experience requirements are those of Licensed Bachelor Social Worker; which requirements remain incomplete is applicant-specific.
Examination evidence
HRS §436B-14.7(a)(5) requires passage of the examination requirements if required by Hawaii or another jurisdiction; another jurisdiction-specific examination is an applicant condition rather than a leaf.
Other license
Have held the qualifying United States jurisdiction license for at least one year, with current active unencumbered good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Qualification verification
The other jurisdiction must verify that its minimum education, applicable experience and clinical supervision requirements were met when it licensed the applicant.
Remaining requirements
HRS §436B-14.7(c) authorizes specified services while completing remaining Hawaii licensing requirements; credentials, experience or national-examination passage must be substantially equivalent to or exceed Hawaii standards.
Spouse status
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany the member on an official permanent change of station to a military installation in Hawaii.
Supervision
Practice under a Hawaii-licensed professional’s supervision if the licensing authority considers it appropriate.
Term
For the subsection (a) license, the ordinary professional license period applies, subject to a maximum of five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Ordinary social worker license tier recognized by HRS §§467E-1, 467E-1.5 and 467E-2. Government employment, student, faculty and clinical-intern exemptions under HRS §467E-6 confer exemptions within their limits rather than another issued license.

Licensing authority: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Director, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, Social Worker Program · Application information

Licensure by endorsement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Criminal records additional
When applicable, provide rehabilitation counselor or therapist letters; a federal conviction also requires a current Federal Criminal History Record Check.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
The education required by HRS §467E-7(a)(2): a CSWE-accredited or equivalent social work master's degree, or a social work doctorate with the stated regional accreditation.
Electronic supervision
The applicant and supervisor may elect some or all supervision by video conferencing compliant with applicable federal and state privacy, security and confidentiality laws; review the effect on possible licensure elsewhere.
Endorsement
The director may honor the ASWB passing score for the category required in Hawaii and used by the jurisdiction that licensed the applicant; the remaining requirements under HRS §§467E-7 and 467E-9 apply.
Experience documentation
The supervisor must complete the experience-verification form and sign before a notary; original unaltered verification is required. Credential substitutes require an original verification letter from NASW or ABE with effective and expiration dates.
Experience equivalence
NASW QCSW or clinical diplomate certification, or American Board of Examiners board-certified diplomate certification, is deemed to satisfy the experience requirement; official credential verification is required.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB C-level score as historical prior evidence. HRS §467E-9(b) limits the NASW diplomate-assessment exception to applications filed by June 30, 2005, so it is not a current issuance route.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Supervised experience
At least 3,000 post-masters clinical social work hours over at least two and at most five years; at least 2,000 assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy hours; at most 900 client-centered advocacy, consultation and evaluation hours; and at least 100 supervision hours.
Supervision
At least 60 of the 100 direct face-to-face supervision hours must be individualized and at most 40 may be in groups of up to six. A supervisor must be an LCSW with at least 4,500 post-masters clinical experience hours. Supervision includes review of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Initial licensure by examination or existing qualifying score
ASWB Clinical Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Criminal records additional
When applicable, provide rehabilitation counselor or therapist letters; a federal conviction also requires a current Federal Criminal History Record Check.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
The education required by HRS §467E-7(a)(2): a CSWE-accredited or equivalent social work master's degree, or a social work doctorate with the stated regional accreditation.
Electronic supervision
The applicant and supervisor may elect some or all supervision by video conferencing compliant with applicable federal and state privacy, security and confidentiality laws; review the effect on possible licensure elsewhere.
Exam authorization
DCCA approval and an eligibility letter precede registration to sit; the application states a one-year eligibility letter for LBSW/LCSW and a two-year letter for LSW.
Experience documentation
The supervisor must complete the experience-verification form and sign before a notary; original unaltered verification is required. Credential substitutes require an original verification letter from NASW or ABE with effective and expiration dates.
Experience equivalence
NASW QCSW or clinical diplomate certification, or American Board of Examiners board-certified diplomate certification, is deemed to satisfy the experience requirement; official credential verification is required.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB C-level score as historical prior evidence. HRS §467E-9(b) limits the NASW diplomate-assessment exception to applications filed by June 30, 2005, so it is not a current issuance route.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Supervised experience
At least 3,000 post-masters clinical social work hours over at least two and at most five years; at least 2,000 assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy hours; at most 900 client-centered advocacy, consultation and evaluation hours; and at least 100 supervision hours.
Supervision
At least 60 of the 100 direct face-to-face supervision hours must be individualized and at most 40 may be in groups of up to six. A supervisor must be an LCSW with at least 4,500 post-masters clinical experience hours. Supervision includes review of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Restoration or extension after active duty crisis deployment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional documents
Provide financial-integrity or federally required documentation if required for renewal.
Application window
Request restoration within 120 days after discharge or release from deployment; provide call-up and release orders and pay the current renewal fee.
Excluded cases
Scheduled annual or specialized training does not qualify; suspended, revoked or otherwise adjudicated disciplinary licenses are excluded.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Military deployment
A member of the armed forces, National Guard or reserves whose license expires, is forfeited or delinquent during active duty deployment in a state or national crisis may use HRS §436B-14.5.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Upcoming expiration
The provision also covers a current license expiring within 120 days after discharge or release.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Expedited endorsement for a nonresident military spouse
ASWB Clinical Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Criminal records additional
When applicable, provide rehabilitation counselor or therapist letters; a federal conviction also requires a current Federal Criminal History Record Check.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
The education required by HRS §467E-7(a)(2): a CSWE-accredited or equivalent social work master's degree, or a social work doctorate with the stated regional accreditation.
Electronic supervision
The applicant and supervisor may elect some or all supervision by video conferencing compliant with applicable federal and state privacy, security and confidentiality laws; review the effect on possible licensure elsewhere.
Experience documentation
The supervisor must complete the experience-verification form and sign before a notary; original unaltered verification is required. Credential substitutes require an original verification letter from NASW or ABE with effective and expiration dates.
Experience equivalence
NASW QCSW or clinical diplomate certification, or American Board of Examiners board-certified diplomate certification, is deemed to satisfy the experience requirement; official credential verification is required.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB C-level score as historical prior evidence. HRS §467E-9(b) limits the NASW diplomate-assessment exception to applications filed by June 30, 2005, so it is not a current issuance route.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Military spouse
A nonresident military spouse may demonstrate profession-specific competency as determined by the authority in lieu of a specified prior-practice duration, unless otherwise provided by law; the authority expedites endorsement.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Supervised experience
At least 3,000 post-masters clinical social work hours over at least two and at most five years; at least 2,000 assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy hours; at most 900 client-centered advocacy, consultation and evaluation hours; and at least 100 supervision hours.
Supervision
At least 60 of the 100 direct face-to-face supervision hours must be individualized and at most 40 may be in groups of up to six. A supervisor must be an LCSW with at least 4,500 post-masters clinical experience hours. Supervision includes review of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Underlying pathway
Honor the qualifying ASWB category score and meet the remaining Hawaii qualifications.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Expedited reciprocity for a nonresident military spouse
ASWB Clinical Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Criminal records additional
When applicable, provide rehabilitation counselor or therapist letters; a federal conviction also requires a current Federal Criminal History Record Check.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
The education required by HRS §467E-7(a)(2): a CSWE-accredited or equivalent social work master's degree, or a social work doctorate with the stated regional accreditation.
Electronic supervision
The applicant and supervisor may elect some or all supervision by video conferencing compliant with applicable federal and state privacy, security and confidentiality laws; review the effect on possible licensure elsewhere.
Experience documentation
The supervisor must complete the experience-verification form and sign before a notary; original unaltered verification is required. Credential substitutes require an original verification letter from NASW or ABE with effective and expiration dates.
Experience equivalence
NASW QCSW or clinical diplomate certification, or American Board of Examiners board-certified diplomate certification, is deemed to satisfy the experience requirement; official credential verification is required.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB C-level score as historical prior evidence. HRS §467E-9(b) limits the NASW diplomate-assessment exception to applications filed by June 30, 2005, so it is not a current issuance route.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Military spouse
A nonresident military spouse may demonstrate profession-specific competency as determined by the authority in lieu of a specified prior-practice duration, unless otherwise provided by law; the authority expedites reciprocity.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Supervised experience
At least 3,000 post-masters clinical social work hours over at least two and at most five years; at least 2,000 assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy hours; at most 900 client-centered advocacy, consultation and evaluation hours; and at least 100 supervision hours.
Supervision
At least 60 of the 100 direct face-to-face supervision hours must be individualized and at most 40 may be in groups of up to six. A supervisor must be an LCSW with at least 4,500 post-masters clinical experience hours. Supervision includes review of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Underlying pathway
The director must establish the reciprocity agreement and find the other licensing requirements equal or greater.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
New license after revocation
ASWB Clinical Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Criminal records additional
When applicable, provide rehabilitation counselor or therapist letters; a federal conviction also requires a current Federal Criminal History Record Check.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Discretionary waiver
The authority may waive education or examination requirements upon documented equivalent maintained knowledge, competence and qualifications through experience, training or education; the discretion is a condition and does not remove the registered exam leaves.
Education
The education required by HRS §467E-7(a)(2): a CSWE-accredited or equivalent social work master's degree, or a social work doctorate with the stated regional accreditation.
Electronic supervision
The applicant and supervisor may elect some or all supervision by video conferencing compliant with applicable federal and state privacy, security and confidentiality laws; review the effect on possible licensure elsewhere.
Experience documentation
The supervisor must complete the experience-verification form and sign before a notary; original unaltered verification is required. Credential substitutes require an original verification letter from NASW or ABE with effective and expiration dates.
Experience equivalence
NASW QCSW or clinical diplomate certification, or American Board of Examiners board-certified diplomate certification, is deemed to satisfy the experience requirement; official credential verification is required.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB C-level score as historical prior evidence. HRS §467E-9(b) limits the NASW diplomate-assessment exception to applications filed by June 30, 2005, so it is not a current issuance route.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Supervised experience
At least 3,000 post-masters clinical social work hours over at least two and at most five years; at least 2,000 assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy hours; at most 900 client-centered advocacy, consultation and evaluation hours; and at least 100 supervision hours.
Supervision
At least 60 of the 100 direct face-to-face supervision hours must be individualized and at most 40 may be in groups of up to six. A supervisor must be an LCSW with at least 4,500 post-masters clinical experience hours. Supervision includes review of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Waiting period
A new application is permitted after five years from the effective date of revocation.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Licensure by reciprocity
ASWB Clinical Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Criminal records additional
When applicable, provide rehabilitation counselor or therapist letters; a federal conviction also requires a current Federal Criminal History Record Check.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
The education required by HRS §467E-7(a)(2): a CSWE-accredited or equivalent social work master's degree, or a social work doctorate with the stated regional accreditation.
Electronic supervision
The applicant and supervisor may elect some or all supervision by video conferencing compliant with applicable federal and state privacy, security and confidentiality laws; review the effect on possible licensure elsewhere.
Experience documentation
The supervisor must complete the experience-verification form and sign before a notary; original unaltered verification is required. Credential substitutes require an original verification letter from NASW or ABE with effective and expiration dates.
Experience equivalence
NASW QCSW or clinical diplomate certification, or American Board of Examiners board-certified diplomate certification, is deemed to satisfy the experience requirement; official credential verification is required.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB C-level score as historical prior evidence. HRS §467E-9(b) limits the NASW diplomate-assessment exception to applications filed by June 30, 2005, so it is not a current issuance route.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Reciprocity
Requires a director-established reciprocity agreement and an existing license in its participating jurisdiction, whose licensing requirements the director deems equal to or greater than current Hawaii requirements; director approval is discretionary.
Supervised experience
At least 3,000 post-masters clinical social work hours over at least two and at most five years; at least 2,000 assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy hours; at most 900 client-centered advocacy, consultation and evaluation hours; and at least 100 supervision hours.
Supervision
At least 60 of the 100 direct face-to-face supervision hours must be individualized and at most 40 may be in groups of up to six. A supervisor must be an LCSW with at least 4,500 post-masters clinical experience hours. Supervision includes review of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Cessation of conviction based revocation or denial after appellate reversal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Other causes
The director may still pursue discipline based on a cause other than the overturned conviction.
Overturned conviction
If the related conviction is overturned on appeal, the revocation or denial under HRS §467E-12.5 automatically ceases.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(e), overturned-conviction consequence

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Reinstatement of suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application and all applicable reinstatement, compliance-resolution and recovery-fund fees.
Individual order
Any individualized assessment or remedial requirement in the suspension order remains an applicant condition; the general reinstatement provision names no separate profession examination.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Suspension order
Reinstatement is permitted to the extent authorized by law upon complete compliance with every term or condition in the suspension order; suspension may not exceed five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-20.html

    HRS §436B-20, complete reinstatement provision

  • 467e-12.html

    HRS §467E-12(a), licensing discipline applies to renewal, reinstatement and restoration

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Relicensure after more than one year of forfeiture
ASWB Clinical Exam
Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Criminal records additional
When applicable, provide rehabilitation counselor or therapist letters; a federal conviction also requires a current Federal Criminal History Record Check.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
The education required by HRS §467E-7(a)(2): a CSWE-accredited or equivalent social work master's degree, or a social work doctorate with the stated regional accreditation.
Electronic supervision
The applicant and supervisor may elect some or all supervision by video conferencing compliant with applicable federal and state privacy, security and confidentiality laws; review the effect on possible licensure elsewhere.
Experience documentation
The supervisor must complete the experience-verification form and sign before a notary; original unaltered verification is required. Credential substitutes require an original verification letter from NASW or ABE with effective and expiration dates.
Experience equivalence
NASW QCSW or clinical diplomate certification, or American Board of Examiners board-certified diplomate certification, is deemed to satisfy the experience requirement; official credential verification is required.
Historical scores
The application accepts the pre-1990 ASWB C-level score as historical prior evidence. HRS §467E-9(b) limits the NASW diplomate-assessment exception to applications filed by June 30, 2005, so it is not a current issuance route.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Supervised experience
At least 3,000 post-masters clinical social work hours over at least two and at most five years; at least 2,000 assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy hours; at most 900 client-centered advocacy, consultation and evaluation hours; and at least 100 supervision hours.
Supervision
At least 60 of the 100 direct face-to-face supervision hours must be individualized and at most 40 may be in groups of up to six. A supervisor must be an LCSW with at least 4,500 post-masters clinical experience hours. Supervision includes review of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy.
Termination
Failure to restore within one year automatically terminates the license; relicensure may require a new application meeting all current licensing requirements.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Triennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12.html

    HRS §467E-12(a), licensing discipline applies to renewal, reinstatement and restoration

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Restoration within one year after forfeiture
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Forfeiture window
Apply in writing within one year of license expiration and pay renewal, penalty, compliance-resolution and applicable restoration fees; audited licensees must document CE compliance.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 436b-14.html

    HRS §436B-14, restoration and new application

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Licensed Clinical Social Worker — Temporary Military and Military Spouse Professional License

The temporary professional license type listed in the DCCA military and military-spouse application, at the corresponding social-worker license tier. State military-spouse qualifications and current federal delayed-recognition issuance are separate applicant pathways.

Licensing authority: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Director, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, Social Worker Program · Application information

Temporary issuance during delayed recognition of a military covered license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
Provide a notarized affidavit of identity and complete truthful application information, understanding and compliance with Hawaii licensing and practice requirements, and good standing in all jurisdictions where licensed.
Background check
The licensing authority may conduct a background check before recognizing the covered license or issuing the temporary license.
Compact exception
50 U.S.C. §4025a does not apply to a covered multi-jurisdiction license held pursuant to an interstate compact; that applicant remains subject to the compact and applicable jurisdiction law.
Covered license
Hold a covered license in good standing, without revocation or discipline, a pending unprofessional-conduct investigation, or surrender while under such investigation, as defined in 50 U.S.C. §4025a(f)(1).
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist duration
The MST-1224 checklist describes temporary practice for the duration of the active-duty military member’s Hawaii service; subsection (b) of the current federal law governs issuance during delayed covered-license recognition.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded. The December 23, 2024 amendment of 50 U.S.C. §4025a replaced the earlier federal text; the current statutory application list does not state a two-year active-use criterion.
Military orders
Be a servicemember, or the spouse of a servicemember, relocating residence to Hawaii because of military-service orders; provide proof of the orders and, for a spouse, a marriage certificate.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Temporary issuance
This route is the Hawaii temporary license permitted by 50 U.S.C. §4025a(b) when the authority cannot carry out covered-license recognition within 30 days after receiving the statutory application; it carries the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as a permanent license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary licensure for a qualified military spouse
ASWB Clinical Exam
Affidavit and criminal history
Pay applicable fees, have no disqualifying criminal history determined by the licensing authority, and submit the signed affidavit covering the accuracy of qualifications, examination, experience, employment and criminal-history information.
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded.
Discipline
Satisfy the limits on prior restrictions, suspension, revocation, surrender, denial and discipline in HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(8); unresolved discipline may lead to denial until all terms are satisfied.
Examination evidence
HRS §436B-14.7(a)(5) requires passage of the examination requirements if required by Hawaii or another jurisdiction; another jurisdiction-specific examination is an applicant condition rather than a leaf.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Other license
Have held the qualifying United States jurisdiction license for at least one year, with current active unencumbered good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Qualification verification
The other jurisdiction must verify that its minimum education, applicable experience and clinical supervision requirements were met when it licensed the applicant.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Spouse status
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany the member on an official permanent change of station to a military installation in Hawaii.
Term
For the subsection (a) license, the ordinary professional license period applies, subject to a maximum of five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Cessation of temporary license conviction discipline after appellate reversal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Overturned conviction
The revocation or denial under HRS §467E-12.5 ceases automatically if its related conviction is overturned; other discipline and remaining temporary-license eligibility still apply.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(e), overturned-conviction consequence

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Reinstatement of eligible suspended temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Suspension order
Comply completely with the suspension order and submit all applicable fees under HRS §436B-20; temporary-license eligibility must also be satisfied.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-20.html

    HRS §436B-20, complete reinstatement provision

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(11), discipline, fees and affidavit

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Renewal of eligible temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-13.html

    HRS §436B-13(a)-(c), renewal of each license

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • lbsw-spouse.pdf

    MST-1224 checklist page, practice, discipline and continuing education

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Restoration of eligible forfeited temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Forfeiture window
Request restoration in writing within one year of forfeiture, satisfy renewal requirements, and pay applicable renewal, penalty and compliance-resolution fees; the temporary eligibility and maximum term must still permit issuance.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-14.html

    HRS §436B-14, restoration and new application

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Temporary practice while a military spouse completes Hawaii licensing requirements
ASWB Clinical Exam
Affidavit and criminal history
Pay applicable fees, have no disqualifying criminal history determined by the licensing authority, and submit the signed affidavit covering the accuracy of qualifications, examination, experience, employment and criminal-history information.
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded.
Discipline
Satisfy the limits on prior restrictions, suspension, revocation, surrender, denial and discipline in HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(8); unresolved discipline may lead to denial until all terms are satisfied.
Education and experience
The applicable full-license education and experience requirements are those of Licensed Clinical Social Worker; which requirements remain incomplete is applicant-specific.
Examination evidence
HRS §436B-14.7(a)(5) requires passage of the examination requirements if required by Hawaii or another jurisdiction; another jurisdiction-specific examination is an applicant condition rather than a leaf.
Other license
Have held the qualifying United States jurisdiction license for at least one year, with current active unencumbered good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Qualification verification
The other jurisdiction must verify that its minimum education, applicable experience and clinical supervision requirements were met when it licensed the applicant.
Remaining requirements
HRS §436B-14.7(c) authorizes specified services while completing remaining Hawaii licensing requirements; credentials, experience or national-examination passage must be substantially equivalent to or exceed Hawaii standards.
Spouse status
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany the member on an official permanent change of station to a military installation in Hawaii.
Supervision
Practice under a Hawaii-licensed professional’s supervision if the licensing authority considers it appropriate.
Term
For the subsection (a) license, the ordinary professional license period applies, subject to a maximum of five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.

Licensed Social Worker

Ordinary social worker license tier recognized by HRS §§467E-1, 467E-1.5 and 467E-2. Government employment, student, faculty and clinical-intern exemptions under HRS §467E-6 confer exemptions within their limits rather than another issued license.

Licensing authority: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Director, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, Social Worker Program · Application information

Licensure by endorsement

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A master's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program, or a doctorate from a social work doctoral program accredited by WASC or a comparable regional accreditor.
Endorsement
The director may honor the ASWB passing score for the category required in Hawaii and used by the jurisdiction that licensed the applicant; the remaining requirements under HRS §§467E-7 and 467E-9 apply.
Historical scores
The application accepts pre-1990 ASWB B- or C-level scores as historical prior evidence. Its intermediate and advanced labels are read as the supplied Masters and Advanced Generalist categories; Clinical is also expressly accepted.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Initial licensure by examination or existing qualifying score

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A master's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program, or a doctorate from a social work doctoral program accredited by WASC or a comparable regional accreditor.
Exam authorization
DCCA approval and an eligibility letter precede registration to sit; the application states a one-year eligibility letter for LBSW/LCSW and a two-year letter for LSW.
Historical scores
The application accepts pre-1990 ASWB B- or C-level scores as historical prior evidence. Its intermediate and advanced labels are read as the supplied Masters and Advanced Generalist categories; Clinical is also expressly accepted.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Restoration or extension after active duty crisis deployment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional documents
Provide financial-integrity or federally required documentation if required for renewal.
Application window
Request restoration within 120 days after discharge or release from deployment; provide call-up and release orders and pay the current renewal fee.
Excluded cases
Scheduled annual or specialized training does not qualify; suspended, revoked or otherwise adjudicated disciplinary licenses are excluded.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Military deployment
A member of the armed forces, National Guard or reserves whose license expires, is forfeited or delinquent during active duty deployment in a state or national crisis may use HRS §436B-14.5.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Upcoming expiration
The provision also covers a current license expiring within 120 days after discharge or release.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Expedited endorsement for a nonresident military spouse

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A master's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program, or a doctorate from a social work doctoral program accredited by WASC or a comparable regional accreditor.
Historical scores
The application accepts pre-1990 ASWB B- or C-level scores as historical prior evidence. Its intermediate and advanced labels are read as the supplied Masters and Advanced Generalist categories; Clinical is also expressly accepted.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Military spouse
A nonresident military spouse may demonstrate profession-specific competency as determined by the authority in lieu of a specified prior-practice duration, unless otherwise provided by law; the authority expedites endorsement.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Underlying pathway
Honor the qualifying ASWB category score and meet the remaining Hawaii qualifications.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Expedited reciprocity for a nonresident military spouse

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A master's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program, or a doctorate from a social work doctoral program accredited by WASC or a comparable regional accreditor.
Historical scores
The application accepts pre-1990 ASWB B- or C-level scores as historical prior evidence. Its intermediate and advanced labels are read as the supplied Masters and Advanced Generalist categories; Clinical is also expressly accepted.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Military spouse
A nonresident military spouse may demonstrate profession-specific competency as determined by the authority in lieu of a specified prior-practice duration, unless otherwise provided by law; the authority expedites reciprocity.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Underlying pathway
The director must establish the reciprocity agreement and find the other licensing requirements equal or greater.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
New license after revocation

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Discretionary waiver
The authority may waive education or examination requirements upon documented equivalent maintained knowledge, competence and qualifications through experience, training or education; the discretion is a condition and does not remove the registered exam leaves.
Education
A master's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program, or a doctorate from a social work doctoral program accredited by WASC or a comparable regional accreditor.
Historical scores
The application accepts pre-1990 ASWB B- or C-level scores as historical prior evidence. Its intermediate and advanced labels are read as the supplied Masters and Advanced Generalist categories; Clinical is also expressly accepted.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Waiting period
A new application is permitted after five years from the effective date of revocation.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Reactivation of inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current requirements
Fulfill reactivation requirements in effect at application and any fitness information the authority requests under HRS §436B-13.3(c)(5).
Fees
Pay the reactivation fee and the renewal and compliance-resolution amounts applicable to whether active or inactive renewal fees were paid; the social-worker table lists no other requirement.
Fitness disclosure
Disclose convictions since inactivation, subsequent sanctions and pending disciplinary actions; provide details and supporting agency or court documents for affirmative answers.
Inactive license
Hold an existing inactive Hawaii license and submit the signed reactivation application.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by reciprocity

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A master's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program, or a doctorate from a social work doctoral program accredited by WASC or a comparable regional accreditor.
Historical scores
The application accepts pre-1990 ASWB B- or C-level scores as historical prior evidence. Its intermediate and advanced labels are read as the supplied Masters and Advanced Generalist categories; Clinical is also expressly accepted.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Reciprocity
Requires a director-established reciprocity agreement and an existing license in its participating jurisdiction, whose licensing requirements the director deems equal to or greater than current Hawaii requirements; director approval is discretionary.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Cessation of conviction based revocation or denial after appellate reversal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Other causes
The director may still pursue discipline based on a cause other than the overturned conviction.
Overturned conviction
If the related conviction is overturned on appeal, the revocation or denial under HRS §467E-12.5 automatically ceases.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(e), overturned-conviction consequence

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Reinstatement of suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application and all applicable reinstatement, compliance-resolution and recovery-fund fees.
Individual order
Any individualized assessment or remedial requirement in the suspension order remains an applicant condition; the general reinstatement provision names no separate profession examination.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Suspension order
Reinstatement is permitted to the extent authorized by law upon complete compliance with every term or condition in the suspension order; suspension may not exceed five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-20.html

    HRS §436B-20, complete reinstatement provision

  • 467e-12.html

    HRS §467E-12(a), licensing discipline applies to renewal, reinstatement and restoration

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Relicensure after more than one year of forfeiture

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 18 years old.
Application
Submit the completed signed application, legal name, contact information and Social Security Number as required; pay the nonrefundable application fee and applicable licensing fees.
Application abandonment
The application instructions state that failure to complete the licensing process within one year after filing, or failure to take and pass the examination after eligibility, results in abandonment and a new application under then-current requirements.
Criminal disclosure
Disclose convictions not annulled or expunged and provide the requested signed explanation, court and sentence records, probation or parole records where applicable, and current criminal history checks; the Hawaii check must be dated within six months.
Discipline disclosure
Disclose prior license sanctions and pending complaints or disciplinary proceedings, and provide the signed explanation, agency records and subsequent employment and education history requested by the application.
Education
A master's degree in a CSWE-accredited or CSWE-equivalent social work program, or a doctorate from a social work doctoral program accredited by WASC or a comparable regional accreditor.
Historical scores
The application accepts pre-1990 ASWB B- or C-level scores as historical prior evidence. Its intermediate and advanced labels are read as the supplied Masters and Advanced Generalist categories; Clinical is also expressly accepted.
License history
Disclose licenses held or previously held elsewhere and obtain official license verifications with status and discipline; copies of licenses are not accepted.
Prior passing score
A previously earned qualifying score may satisfy the examination requirement; ASWB must send official verification directly to DCCA, and original documents are required.
Termination
Failure to restore within one year automatically terminates the license; relicensure may require a new application meeting all current licensing requirements.
Transcript
Arrange for the school registrar to send an official transcript showing the degree, major and degree-conferral date directly to DCCA.
Work authorization
Be a United States citizen, United States national, or an alien authorized to work in the United States.
Triennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12.html

    HRS §467E-12(a), licensing discipline applies to renewal, reinstatement and restoration

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Restoration within one year after forfeiture
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Forfeiture window
Apply in writing within one year of license expiration and pay renewal, penalty, compliance-resolution and applicable restoration fees; audited licensees must document CE compliance.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 436b-14.html

    HRS §436B-14, restoration and new application

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Licensed Social Worker — Temporary Military and Military Spouse Professional License

The temporary professional license type listed in the DCCA military and military-spouse application, at the corresponding social-worker license tier. State military-spouse qualifications and current federal delayed-recognition issuance are separate applicant pathways.

Licensing authority: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Director, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, Social Worker Program · Application information

Temporary issuance during delayed recognition of a military covered license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
Provide a notarized affidavit of identity and complete truthful application information, understanding and compliance with Hawaii licensing and practice requirements, and good standing in all jurisdictions where licensed.
Background check
The licensing authority may conduct a background check before recognizing the covered license or issuing the temporary license.
Compact exception
50 U.S.C. §4025a does not apply to a covered multi-jurisdiction license held pursuant to an interstate compact; that applicant remains subject to the compact and applicable jurisdiction law.
Covered license
Hold a covered license in good standing, without revocation or discipline, a pending unprofessional-conduct investigation, or surrender while under such investigation, as defined in 50 U.S.C. §4025a(f)(1).
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist duration
The MST-1224 checklist describes temporary practice for the duration of the active-duty military member’s Hawaii service; subsection (b) of the current federal law governs issuance during delayed covered-license recognition.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded. The December 23, 2024 amendment of 50 U.S.C. §4025a replaced the earlier federal text; the current statutory application list does not state a two-year active-use criterion.
Military orders
Be a servicemember, or the spouse of a servicemember, relocating residence to Hawaii because of military-service orders; provide proof of the orders and, for a spouse, a marriage certificate.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Temporary issuance
This route is the Hawaii temporary license permitted by 50 U.S.C. §4025a(b) when the authority cannot carry out covered-license recognition within 30 days after receiving the statutory application; it carries the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as a permanent license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary licensure for a qualified military spouse

At least one of the following alternatives:

Affidavit and criminal history
Pay applicable fees, have no disqualifying criminal history determined by the licensing authority, and submit the signed affidavit covering the accuracy of qualifications, examination, experience, employment and criminal-history information.
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded.
Discipline
Satisfy the limits on prior restrictions, suspension, revocation, surrender, denial and discipline in HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(8); unresolved discipline may lead to denial until all terms are satisfied.
Examination evidence
HRS §436B-14.7(a)(5) requires passage of the examination requirements if required by Hawaii or another jurisdiction; another jurisdiction-specific examination is an applicant condition rather than a leaf.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Other license
Have held the qualifying United States jurisdiction license for at least one year, with current active unencumbered good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Qualification verification
The other jurisdiction must verify that its minimum education, applicable experience and clinical supervision requirements were met when it licensed the applicant.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
Spouse status
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany the member on an official permanent change of station to a military installation in Hawaii.
Term
For the subsection (a) license, the ordinary professional license period applies, subject to a maximum of five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Cessation of temporary license conviction discipline after appellate reversal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Overturned conviction
The revocation or denial under HRS §467E-12.5 ceases automatically if its related conviction is overturned; other discipline and remaining temporary-license eligibility still apply.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(e), overturned-conviction consequence

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Reinstatement of eligible suspended temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Suspension order
Comply completely with the suspension order and submit all applicable fees under HRS §436B-20; temporary-license eligibility must also be satisfied.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-20.html

    HRS §436B-20, complete reinstatement provision

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(11), discipline, fees and affidavit

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Renewal of eligible temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-13.html

    HRS §436B-13(a)-(c), renewal of each license

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • lbsw-spouse.pdf

    MST-1224 checklist page, practice, discipline and continuing education

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Restoration of eligible forfeited temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 45 approved continuing-education credit hours within the three years preceding renewal, including at least 3 ethics hours.
Continuing education records
Maintain CE records and certify compliance under oath; provide satisfactory evidence when requested and documentation within 60 days if selected for an audit.
Federal status
A federal subsection (b) temporary license is issued during delayed covered-license recognition; continued practice remains subject to that statute and the licensing authority’s disposition.
Fees
Pay all required renewal fees.
First renewal exception
A first-time licensee is exempt from continuing education for the first license renewal.
Forfeiture window
Request restoration in writing within one year of forfeiture, satisfy renewal requirements, and pay applicable renewal, penalty and compliance-resolution fees; the temporary eligibility and maximum term must still permit issuance.
Licensing fitness
Remain subject to the applicable licensing and discipline provisions of HRS §467E-12.
Renewal deadline
Renew triennially by June 30; the DCCA program identifies the continuing cycle as 2025, 2028 and 2031.
Sex offender discipline
HRS §467E-12.5(a) requires revocation or denial of renewal, restoration or reinstatement for the convictions or sex-offender registration it describes by reference to chapter 846E. Subsection (g) additionally bars restoration, renewal or reinstatement in its stated registration and patient/client offense circumstances.
State duration
A subsection (a) military-spouse license has the ordinary license period and cannot exceed five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.
Temporary eligibility
Maintain the eligibility and practice conditions of the issuing temporary-license pathway; a renewal or restoration does not extend the statutory or military-service term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • 436b-14.html

    HRS §436B-14, restoration and new application

  • 436b-14-7.html

    HRS §436B-14.7(e), ordinary term and aggregate limit

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(a), renewal and forfeiture

  • 467e-11.html

    HRS §467E-11(c)-(f), current continuing education and audits

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(a)(1)-(2), mandatory discipline triggers

  • 467e-12-5.html

    HRS §467E-12.5(g), patient or client offense reinstatement bar

Temporary practice while a military spouse completes Hawaii licensing requirements

At least one of the following alternatives:

Affidavit and criminal history
Pay applicable fees, have no disqualifying criminal history determined by the licensing authority, and submit the signed affidavit covering the accuracy of qualifications, examination, experience, employment and criminal-history information.
Dcca checklist documents
The MST-1224 checklist requests PCS orders or a personnel-office verification and non-military ID, with a military ID accepted through in-person verification; official verifications must come directly from licensing agencies.
Dcca checklist usage
The MST-1224 checklist states: "Two Year Active Usage: the license being relied upon must have been actively used by the servicemember or the servicemember’s spouse during the two years immediately preceding the servicemember’s relocation orders." This is the implementing checklist demand; the current federal statutory route is separately recorded.
Discipline
Satisfy the limits on prior restrictions, suspension, revocation, surrender, denial and discipline in HRS §436B-14.7(a)(6)-(8); unresolved discipline may lead to denial until all terms are satisfied.
Education and experience
The applicable full-license education and experience requirements are those of Licensed Social Worker; which requirements remain incomplete is applicant-specific.
Examination evidence
HRS §436B-14.7(a)(5) requires passage of the examination requirements if required by Hawaii or another jurisdiction; another jurisdiction-specific examination is an applicant condition rather than a leaf.
Other license
Have held the qualifying United States jurisdiction license for at least one year, with current active unencumbered good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Practice and ce
Submit to Hawaii practice standards, licensing discipline and applicable continuing-education requirements.
Qualification verification
The other jurisdiction must verify that its minimum education, applicable experience and clinical supervision requirements were met when it licensed the applicant.
Remaining requirements
HRS §436B-14.7(c) authorizes specified services while completing remaining Hawaii licensing requirements; credentials, experience or national-examination passage must be substantially equivalent to or exceed Hawaii standards.
Spouse status
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany the member on an official permanent change of station to a military installation in Hawaii.
Supervision
Practice under a Hawaii-licensed professional’s supervision if the licensing authority considers it appropriate.
Term
For the subsection (a) license, the ordinary professional license period applies, subject to a maximum of five years in aggregate or the military assignment period.

ASWB Bachelors Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$230 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (35%) (35%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (33%) (33%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Task-centered approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role modeling techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Social change and social planning methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Assertiveness training techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role play techniques
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
Examination sources

ASWB Clinical Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$260 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (36%) (36%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Research ethics (e.g., institutional review boards, use of human subjects, informed consent)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (32% — the heading in the Clinical content outline prints no percentage; page 6 of the guidebook states the Clinical examination will have 32 percent of the questions testing Assessment and Planning) (32%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in assessment and common indicators of mental health and brain-related conditions
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Developing formal documents (e.g., grants, proposals, reports, evaluations)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Assertiveness training techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role modeling techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Couples interventions and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role play techniques
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of establishing program objectives and outcomes
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Program evaluation and related impact on services
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Quality assurance (e.g., program reviews and audits by external sources)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Fiscal management and resource allocation techniques
Examination sources

ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$260 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (35%) (35%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Research ethics (e.g., institutional review boards, use of human subjects, informed consent)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (33%) (33%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Developing formal documents (e.g., grants, proposals, reports, evaluations)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Quality assurance (e.g., program reviews and audits by external sources)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of establishing program objectives and outcomes
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Program evaluation and related impact on services
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Leadership and management techniques
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures for safe, inclusive, and a healthy work environment
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Employee recruitment, training, retention, performance appraisal, evaluation, and discipline
Examination sources

ASWB Masters Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$230 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (35%) (35%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (33%) (33%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Social change and social planning methods
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures for safe, inclusive, and a healthy work environment
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
Examination sources