Wisconsin Certified Advanced Social Worker (CAPSW) Guide - 2024

Wisconsin Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker (CAPSW) Licensure Process

The Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker or CAPSW is a credential in Wisconsin allowing the holder to do general social work services and practice clinical social work with the supervision of an LCSW.

You need to have a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-approved institution to be eligible to become a CAPSW. You can only start your application if you satisfy this educational requirement. Here you can find all schools offering social work degree programs in Wisconsin.

Application Requirement

The first thing to do is download and complete the social worker application form. Submit this to the DSPS board along with your Certificate of Professional Education. That should be sent directly to the DSPS office from your school.

Next is to pay the $165 application fee that also covers the law exam required. You will then get an application number. You can request a temporary work permit that is valid for nine months. It allows you to work as you try to pass the exams.

Examination Requirements

Once you have your application number, you can take the state law exam. The test is required for all social worker applicants in Wisconsin. It is an online test where you are allowed to have books open. It covers the different laws on social work practice in the state. The passing score for the law exam is 85%.

The other examination you need to complete is the ASWB Masters. It has 170 multiple-choice questions covering different aspects of social work. The test result will be sent to the DSPS board about two weeks after you take it.

After completing all the required documentation and passing the exams, you will be issued the CAPSW certificate. You can now begin practicing social work.