Delaware Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) Guide - 2024

Delaware Licensed Masters Social Worker (LMSW) Licensing Process

If you would like to open the door to more career opportunities, you can become a licensed master’s social worker (LMSW). You can use this degree to work in a clinical setting or to work as a case manager or policy analyst. These are just some of the opportunities that will be available to you after obtaining your license. Thus, let’s go over the procedure so you can start working toward your LMSW.

Education Requirements

You can begin your journey to becoming an LMSW by completing a master’s degree program in social work. First, you need to choose a program that’s accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or its successor. Find all schools offering social work degree programs in Delaware, here.

According to the CSWE’s website, Delaware has one accredited master’s degree program in social work. Thus, if you want to pursue this career opportunity, you’ll need to complete the program at Delaware State University. The program is available at the Dover, Wilmington, and Georgetown locations, and you can take it as a full- or part-time student. It also has an online option, but you’ll need to complete the field practicum requirement when taking the course, so some in-person time will be required as well.

Experience Requirements

You will gain ample experience when earning your master’s degree. This includes fieldwork that will help you understand your role when you begin working as an LMSW. Because you will gain so much experience in school, you do not have to acquire work experience to get your license.

Examination Requirements

The state wants to make sure you’re ready to work as a social worker after completing your degree. Thus, you must pass the exam through the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB).

First, though, you have to create an online account through the Delaware Professional Regulation Online Service’s (DELPROS) portal. Then, you can submit your application and wait for approval to take the exam.

As soon as approval is granted, you can register on the ASWB website. Be sure to pay the registration fee of $230 so you can sit for the exam.

Background Check Requirements

You have to pass a federal background check before receiving a license to practice social work in Delaware. First, print and fill out the Authorization for Release of Information form. Once completed, drop it off at a local office, along with the $65 fee.

You can drop the application and fee off at one of the following locations:

This facility accepts walk-ins, but the hours change. Thus, call (302) 739-5871 to get the hours for the day or week you want to visit.

Because this facility is by appointment only, you must call (302) 739-2528 before heading over. Then you can get an appointment time to come.

This facility is also by appointment only. Thus, call (302) 739-2528 to find out when to come in to drop off your form.

Child Protection Consent Requirements

You also must complete and submit the Delaware Child Protection Registry Consent form as part of the application process. Then, the government can make sure that you do not have a history of child abuse or neglect.

You can email the document to CustomerService@DPR@Delaware.gov or fax it to (302) 739-2711.

Process of Licensure

You will complete your application through the DELPROS portal. The application process is straightforward and explains which documents to upload. You’ll also have to acknowledge documents that were sent by third parties as part of your application.

You will submit your $195 application fee when applying. Then, the board will review your license and approve you for the exam. After passing the exam, you can obtain your license.