Delaware Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) Guide - 2024

Delaware Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW) Licensing Process

You can start your career in the shortest time possible by becoming a licensed bachelor’s social worker (LBSW), also known as a licensed baccalaureate social worker. This career path has the fewest requirements and will allow you to work in an entry-level position as a client advocate or in another role. You can work with families, communities, couples, groups, and organizations when serving as an LBSW. First, though, you must meet all the requirements to submit your application.

Education Requirements

You have to earn a bachelor’s degree in social work on your path to becoming an LBSW. First, make sure the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or a successor. You can find all CSWE-accredited social work programs in Delaware, here. While the state does not have many options for accredited social work programs, you can take in-person or online classes as well. Thus, you can still earn your degree, even if you do not live close to a college or university.

Experience Requirements

Because this is an entry-level social work license, you don’t have to have work experience to apply. Instead, you will learn everything you need to know when completing your bachelor’s program, so you’ll be ready to work with clients, the community, and policy. Then, you can expand on that knowledge once you start your career.

Examination Requirements

You have to pass the Bachelor of Social Work licensing exam through the Association of Social Work Boards in order to obtain a license. First, you must create an account through the Delaware Professional Regulation Online Service’s (DELPROS) portal. Then, submit your application and wait for approval to take the exam.

Once you receive approval, you can register for the exam on the ASWB website. You’ll also need to pay the exam fee of $230 when registering.

Background Check Requirements

The state conducts federal criminal background checks on all social worker licensure applicants. First, print the Authorization of Release of Information and fill it out. Then, you need to drop off the authorization form and the $65 fee at one of the three following locations:

This facility accepts walk-ins. First, call (302) 739-5871 to determine which hours you can bring your application to the location.

You need to call (302) 739-2528 to make an appointment at this facility.

You also have to make an appointment to go here. Thus, call (302) 739-2528 to schedule an appointment.

Child Protection Consent Requirements

Keeping children and families safe is critical when working as a social worker. Thus, you need to prove that you don’t have child abuse or neglect allegations or convictions in your past. In order to do that, you’ll need to fill out the Delaware Child Protection Registry Consent Form. After completing the form, you can fax or email it to:

• (302) 739-2711
• CustomerService.DPR@Delaware.gov

Process of Licensure

You will complete your application and provide supporting documentation through the DELPROS online portal. When applying, you’ll need to acknowledge documents sent from third parties, such as your school verification. Also, the system will prompt you to upload supporting documents.

After you finish your application, submit it and the $195 fee through the online portal. Once approved, you’ll receive your license to practice as an LBSW.