Missouri Social Worker Licensure by Reciprocity (by Endorsement)

Social Worker License

by Social Worker License Staff

Updated: April 1st, 2026

Last verified: April 1st, 2026

This guide was last reviewed against official information published by the Missouri Committee for Social Workers, along with the applicable Missouri Revised Statutes (Chapter 337 – 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.

Missouri Social Work License by Reciprocity (Licensure by Endorsement)

Missouri does not offer automatic license reciprocity for social workers. Instead, it uses a process called licensure by endorsement for applicants already licensed in another state.

Through endorsement, the Missouri State Committee for Social Workers reviews your current license, education, and exam history to determine whether you qualify for a comparable Missouri license.

Who This Pathway Is For

  • Licensed social workers moving to Missouri
  • Professionals with an active license in another U.S. state
  • Applicants whose education, exam, and experience meet Missouri standards

What You’ll Need

  • License verification from your current state
  • Official transcripts showing your social work degree
  • ASWB exam scores sent to Missouri
  • Completed application through the state portal

How to Apply

Submit your application through Missouri’s licensing system:
MoPRO (Missouri Professional Registration)

Have your documents ready before you apply—most delays happen when license verification or exam scores are missing or sent to the wrong place.

Important to Know

  • No automatic transfer: Your license must meet Missouri’s current requirements.
  • Level matters: You’ll be considered for the Missouri license that matches your current credential (LBSW, LMSW, or LCSW).
  • Additional steps may apply: If your original state had different requirements, Missouri may request more information or require you to meet specific standards.

Pro Tip

If you’re unsure whether your license meets Missouri’s requirements, review the state’s statutes and rules before applying:
Missouri Social Work Rules and Statutes.