How to Become a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) in Hawaii
The Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) is Hawaii’s bachelor’s-level social work license. It can open the door to entry-level social work roles such as case management, resource coordination, advocacy, intake, and community-based support. It should not be treated as automatic authority for independent clinical practice unless Hawaii law or rules explicitly allow it.
In day-to-day practice, a social work license determines how you may represent your role, which services you can provide, and how employers credential and supervise your work.
What LBSW licensure does (and does not) mean
- What it means: you have completed bachelor’s-level social work education and met Hawaii’s licensing requirements for the LBSW credential.
- What it does not automatically mean: independent clinical authority or permission to perform services reserved for higher license levels.
Educational Requirements for Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) in Hawaii
Education is the foundation of the LBSW pathway. Choosing the right degree program can help prevent delays during application review.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
The most direct path to LBSW licensure is earning a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). BSW programs are designed to meet the curriculum expectations commonly used in social work licensing reviews.
Program accreditation (CSWE)
Before enrolling or applying, confirm whether the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). CSWE-accredited programs are generally easier to verify during the licensing process.
View CSWE-accredited programs
Transcript and documentation timing
- Degree conferral: your transcript must show the degree awarded and the conferral date, not just completed coursework.
- Official transcripts: follow PVL instructions for how transcripts must be submitted.
- Name consistency: if your transcript name differs from your application name, supporting documentation may be required.
Education completed outside Hawaii
Out-of-state education is reviewed using Hawaii’s standards. A CSWE-accredited BSW from another state is typically reviewed more smoothly than a non-accredited program.
Examination Requirements for Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) in Hawaii
Hawaii requires an Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination as part of the LBSW licensing process.
ASWB exam information and registration
How the exam process works
- Apply through Hawaii’s licensing process and follow PVL instructions for exam eligibility.
- Register for the appropriate ASWB exam using Hawaii as your jurisdiction.
- Schedule and complete the exam through the approved testing system.
- Ensure official exam scores are sent to Hawaii as instructed.
Helpful exam planning tips
- Confirm you are registering for the correct exam level for LBSW.
- Use the same legal name on your PVL application and ASWB registration.
- Keep exam-related emails and confirmations in one place.
Jurisprudence exam
There is no clearly identified separate Hawaii jurisprudence exam for LBSW. If required, it will be listed in PVL application instructions or governing rules.
Experience and Supervision Requirements
Experience requirements
There are typically no post-degree experience requirements for initial LBSW licensure in Hawaii.
Supervision considerations
- Do not assume supervised hours are required for LBSW unless explicitly stated in Hawaii’s rules.
- Do not assume independent practice authority based on employer staffing needs.
Many employers still provide supervision as part of training and risk management. Keeping clear supervision notes can be helpful for professional development and future licensure.
Application Process for Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) in Hawaii
Where to apply
Before submitting
- Use the same name format on all documents.
- Confirm your degree and transcript meet Hawaii’s requirements.
- Keep exam registration and score reporting records together.
- Prepare any required disclosures clearly and consistently.
Common application delays
- Inconsistent license titles or name formats.
- Unreadable or incomplete document uploads.
- Transcripts that do not yet show degree conferral.
Fees
Application and examination fees may change. Always confirm current amounts and payment methods using official PVL and ASWB instructions before submitting payment.
Licensure Renewal Requirements
Renewal process
Continuing education
Continuing education requirements and renewal conditions are set by Hawaii’s administrative rules. Keep records of completed courses and related documentation.
Common renewal issues
- Name or contact information mismatches.
- Missing continuing education documentation.
- Assuming employer training automatically qualifies.
Regional and Practice Considerations
Island-specific realities
- Access to supervision and support can vary by island.
- Travel time may affect scheduling, documentation, and service delivery.
- Remote supervision policies differ by employer.
Role variation by setting
- Hospitals: discharge planning and coordination under defined supervision.
- Schools and youth programs: family engagement, documentation, and community referrals.
- Community nonprofits: broad responsibilities with a strong focus on coordination and advocacy.
Additional Considerations
Scope and job duties
- Confirm that daily job duties align with what is permitted under the LBSW credential.
- Ask for written clarification if responsibilities extend into higher-level practice areas.
Timing and employment screening
- Licensure processing and employer onboarding often move on different timelines.
- Some employers restrict duties until internal credentialing is complete.
FAQs
- Where do I submit an LBSW application or renewal?
- Applications and renewals are handled through the MyPVL portal, with guidance from the PVL Social Worker Program.
- Does LBSW allow independent clinical practice?
- No. Practice authority depends on Hawaii law and rules and should not be assumed.
- Are supervised hours required?
- Supervised hours are not typically required for initial LBSW licensure unless stated in official requirements.
- Which exam is required?
- The ASWB exam designated for the LBSW pathway in Hawaii.
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