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Mississippi Social Worker License by Endorsement

How to Become a Social Worker in Mississippi - 2026 Guide
Social Worker License

by Social Worker License Staff

Updated: March 30th, 2026

Mississippi Licensing Body

Last verified: March 30th, 2026

This guide was last reviewed against official information published by the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists, along with the applicable Mississippi Code (Title 73, Chapter 53 – Social Workers) and related administrative rules governing licensure. These sources define the state’s requirements for education, examination, supervised experience, scope of practice, and license renewal.

Mississippi Social Worker License by Endorsement

If you’re already licensed as a social worker in another state, Mississippi does not offer formal “reciprocity.” Instead, the state uses a process called licensure by endorsement.

Through endorsement, the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists reviews your existing license, education, and exam history to determine whether you qualify for an equivalent Mississippi license.

Who This Pathway Is For

  • Social workers currently licensed in another U.S. state
  • Professionals whose license was earned through standards similar to Mississippi’s
  • Those relocating to Mississippi or planning to practice in the state

Basic Requirements

While requirements vary slightly by license level (LSW, LMSW, or LCSW), most applicants should expect to provide:

  • Verification of your current license from another state
  • Official transcripts showing your qualifying social work degree
  • ASWB exam scores (sent directly to the Board)
  • Completed application through the state portal
  • Background check and fingerprinting

Important Things to Know

  • No automatic transfer: Mississippi evaluates each application individually—your license is not automatically accepted.
  • Equivalent standards matter: Your original license must meet requirements comparable to Mississippi’s current rules.
  • License level alignment: You’ll typically be issued the Mississippi license that matches your current level (if eligible).

How to Apply

Start your application through the Mississippi licensing portal:
Apply for Licensure by Endorsement

Before applying, it’s a good idea to gather all documentation—especially license verification and ASWB scores—to avoid delays.

Pro Tip

If your original state had different supervision or exam requirements, the Board may request additional information or determine that you need to meet specific Mississippi requirements before approval. Reviewing the Mississippi Administrative Code (Title 30, Part 1902) can help you understand how your credentials will be evaluated.