Alabama Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Guide - 2024

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Licensure Process

For those who hope to advance their career in the field of social work, pursuing a license at the master’s level is going to be a necessary step. While there are additional educational requirements and a higher level of testing demands, the reward for that commitment to your personal growth is advanced career opportunities, higher pay, and more challenging roles to serve your community.

Those who hold a LMSW license will be able to work and serve individuals and families in a variety of ways throughout the state of Alabama. The need for supervision when performing these duties will depend on the specifics of what is being done for clients. Some services, including counseling that is non-clinical, do not require formal supervision. However, a LMSW doing clinical social work will need to have the supervision of an LCSW or psychiatrist.

The varied roles that a LMSW can fill is one of the reasons that this level of the social work profession is appealing to many. For example, you may help individuals dealing with mental health conditions, addiction problems, or physical abuse in a domestic violence situation. Many of the meaningful, impactful types of services that professionals in the social work field desire to offer will only become possible once a LMSW license is obtained.

Education Requirements

To become a LMSW in Alabama, you will need a master’s in social work from an approved institution. Find and filter all social work degree programs in Alabama.

Experience Requirements

There are no specific experience requirements for this license as long as the educational standards have been met and the individual is able to pass the master’s ASWB exam.

Examination Requirements

Passing the master’s version of the ASWB exam is necessary to obtain this license in the state of Alabama.

Process of Application

Applying to become a LMSW in Alabama start by filling out an application and submitting that form to the board. This is done before taking the master’s level exam, as you first need to qualify to be eligible for a license before you can take that exam. After submitting your online application, or filling out and submitting the paper option, with the necessary fee and getting approved based on your transcripts and other information, you’ll then be able to take the master’s exam. Passing that test is the last step in the process and you will then become licensed.