Maryland Social Worker License Renewal

by Social Worker License Staff

Updated: May 9th, 2022

Licensing Body

License Renewal and Continuing Education

Every two years, on October 31, all social workers in Maryland must renew their licenses. The renewal fee varies by licensing type.

Go here for online renewal of licenses.

Social workers are required to complete a specified amount of continuing education throughout each renewal cycle (CE). LMSWs, LCSWs, and LCSW-Cs must complete 40 hours of CE, while LBSWs must complete 30 hours. At least half of the hours must be earned through “Category I” activities, which are formal CE opportunities. Activities in “Category II,” which are less structured, may account for up to half of the total. All social workers are required to take at least three hours of continuing education on ethical, legal, and professional problems. Board-approved supervisory social workers must undergo at least three hours of supervisory training.

The board accepts CE units offered by ASWB, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), and board-authorized sponsors such as recognized state, national or international social work associations. The content offered by any of the following must be pursuant to the Board’s CE regulations.

If you fail to renew your license when due, your license right to practice will be terminated until you apply for reinstatement.

License Reinstatement

This is required to obtain your license after a non-renewed status within a period of 5 years. The board requires individuals in this category to submit the application for reinstatement form as well as the necessary documentation associated with the continuing education for renewal. The reinstatement fee varies depending on the license.

Failure to apply for reinstatement within the 5-year period will subject you to applying for the licensure again as if you were a new applicant, including paying the associated fees.

License Verification

License verification is done solely online on the board’s website.