Illinois Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Illinois LCSW Licensure Process

LCSWs provide clinical services without supervision, including diagnosis, treatment, and therapy. The LCSW is the second and highest level of licensure provided by Illinois.

Education Requirements

An MSW or DSW from a CSWE accredited school or program must obtain an LCSW license.

Find all schools in Illinois offering social work degree programs.

Experience Requirements

LCSWs must have supervised postgraduate clinical social work experience. The amount of hours required is dependent on whether you have an MSW or DSW. Applicants with an MSW need to earn 3,000 hours of supervised postgraduate clinical experience. Those with a DSW need to log 2,000 hours of the same experience. At least four hours of monthly supervision from an LCSW must be completed while attaining the required hours. As you earn your experience, you may work full time at 30-40 hours per week or part-time at 15-29 hours each week.

Application Process

After finishing up your supervised postgraduate clinical experience, you will be ready to submit the LCSW application to the IDFPR. Your supervisor(s) need to complete information on the form to verify you have satisfactorily completed the work required. Send the application and supplemental documentation to the IDFPR with the $50 license and exam fee.

Examination Requirement

Passing the ASWB Clinical Examination is the final step to receiving your LCSW. The testing fee is $260, and you can only register once approved by the IDFPR. Your ASWB scores are automatically sent to the IDFPR two weeks after completing the exam. You can then receive your license and begin your practice as an LCSW.

Background Check

Everyone seeking an LSW must pass a criminal background check as part of the application process. Applicants are responsible for locating a facility and need to send the sealed transcripts to the IDFPR.