Nevada Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

Nevada Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Licensure Process

Do you want to become an advanced generalist in social work so you can handle tasks such as policy analysis and case management? If so, you’ll need to pursue a license to become a master social worker. While still considered a generalist, this will give you opportunities for higher-paying jobs, and you can play a larger role in the system. First, though, you must meet the licensing requirements.

Education Requirements

Your first step should be finding and enrolling in a master’s degree program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Nevada currently has two accredited master’s degree programs in social work. You can attend in person at the University of Nevada’s Las Vegas or Reno locations. Additionally, the Reno location offers online classes. Online classes are beneficial when trying to balance a job with going to school. It can be hard to fit both in when attending in person, but online classes provide more flexibility.

Here you can find all schools offering social work degree programs in Nevada.

Experience Requirements

The board does not have an experience requirement in place for those applying to become licensed master social workers. In fact, you can apply for a provisional B license if you are still enrolled in school, as long as you’ll earn your degree within the next three years. While the idea of embarking on a career without experience might be frightening, you’ll learn everything you need to know in your master’s degree program.

Examination Requirements

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)  is in charge of the exam to become an LMSW. After you apply for your license, the board will grant approval to take the exam. Then you can register to take the exam online and pay the $230 fee.

Background Check Requirements

You won’t receive your license until the board receives your background check results. First, print off the Fingerprint Request Form and fill it out. You’ll schedule an appointment for fingerprinting and hand the form to the technician. Then you can provide your fingerprints to undergo a background check. Also, print and fill out the Fingerprint Waiver Form to submit with your application.

Applying for Licensure as a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

You will need to create an account for the State of Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers’ online portal. Then you can apply for licensure online. The application fee is $50, and you’ll need to pay an additional $125 for the initial license fee. After applying, you can check your application status through the online portal.