Nevada Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Guide - 2024

Nevada Licensed Social Worker (LSW) Licensure Process

If you want to take the fewest steps possible to begin work, you can pursue a career as a licensed social worker. While it has the lowest barrier to entry, you still must meet specific requirements before getting licensed. After you get your license, you can continue working as an LSW, use it as a springboard to become a master social worker, or go after a license to practice independently or in a clinical setting.

Education Requirements

You have to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work from a program that’s been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). There are multiple accredited programs in Nevada, and a few of them are bachelor’s programs. Most bachelor’s degree programs are in person, but you can pursue your master’s degree online if you prefer.

Here you can find all schools offering social work degree programs in Nevada.

Experience Requirements

You don’t have to obtain any experience prior to getting your license. Instead, your education will prepare you for your first job as an LSW. You will then gain critical on-the-job training that will help you come into your own as a social worker. That experience will also be helpful if you decide to pursue another license.

Examination Requirements

While you don’t need to gain experience, you must pass the licensing exam through the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). Once you receive approval from the board, you can apply for the exam on ASWB’s website. You’ll also need to pay the $230 exam fee. Moreover, you can spend extra money on study materials and an online practice test on the ASWB’s website. The board doesn’t require that you study or practice, so you don’t have to spend that money if you don’t want to do so. However, you’ll be more likely to fly through the exam if you’re well prepared.

Background Check Requirements

You’ll need to provide fingerprints for a background check before becoming an LSW. First, print and fill out the Fingerprint Request Form. You’ll need to give the form to the fingerprint technician to initiate the background check. Then print the Fingerprint Waiver Form to include with your application. If you skip one of these steps, the board will reject your application.

Applying for Licensure as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

You can apply to become a licensed social worker via the online portal. The board charges an application fee of $50 and an initial license fee of $125. It takes the board up to 45 days to process the application, and you can check the status on the online portal. Keep in mind that while it has up to 45 days, the process is typically much faster. Thus, it shouldn’t be long before you’re able to start working as an LSW.