Kentucky Social Worker License by Reciprocity

Social Worker License

by Social Worker License Staff

Updated: March 1st, 2026

Last verified: March 1st, 2026

Kentucky social work licensure requirements were reviewed against the official Kentucky Board of Social Work website, including the board’s published licensure forms and instructions, applicable statutes in the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS Chapter 335), and relevant administrative regulations in the Kentucky Administrative Regulations (201 KAR Chapter 23) to confirm current education, examination, supervision, and renewal standards. Readers should consult the board directly for any updates issued after this verification date.

Social Work Licensure by Endorsement (Sometimes Called “Reciprocity”) in Kentucky

Kentucky does not have an automatic social work license reciprocity agreement that transfers a license from another state without review. If you are licensed in another state and want a Kentucky credential, you apply through the Kentucky Board of Social Work and submit an endorsement-style application package so the Board can confirm you meet Kentucky’s education, exam, and licensure standards.

In most cases, the endorsement file includes official transcripts from a CSWE-accredited social work program, ASWB exam score verification (sent via ASWB’s official score transfer process), and license verification from every state where you hold or have held a social work license. For clinical licensure (LCSW), Kentucky typically requires documentation showing you meet Kentucky’s post-degree clinical practice and supervision standards, or acceptable evidence of independent clinical practice when applicable under Board guidance.