HowToGetLicensed

How to Get a Licensed Clinical Social Worker License in Minnesota

Last updated: March 2, 2026

Minnesota is a stable market with strong demand in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, making it an excellent place to start a career as a licensed clinical social worker. Licensing in Minnesota is overseen by the Minnesota Board of Social Work. The process requires 3000 hours of pre-license education and costs between $54,500 and $55,500 in total. You'll need to pass the ASWB Clinical Exam (administered by Minnesota Board of Social Work) with a score of at least 70%.

At 3000 hours, Minnesota has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 3000 hours. Budget between $54,500 and $55,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring licensed clinical social workers complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.

Minnesota Licensed Clinical Social Worker License Requirements

Licensing requirements for Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Minnesota
Requirement Details
Minimum Age 18 years old
Pre-License Education 3000 hours
Degree Required No
Exam Required Yes — ASWB Clinical Exam
Passing Score 70%
Background Check Yes
Broker Sponsorship Not required
Application Fee $120
Exam Fee $260
Governing Body Minnesota Board of Social Work
License Reciprocity Partial

Reciprocity:

Steps to Get Your Licensed Clinical Social Worker License in Minnesota

  1. 1

    Earn a Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Complete an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program. MSW programs take 2 years (3 years part-time). Advanced standing programs for BSW holders take 1 year.

    Time: 2-3 years Cost: $350
  2. 2

    Complete Supervised Clinical Hours

    Accumulate the required supervised clinical hours under a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Most states require 2-3 years (3,000-4,000 hours) of post-MSW supervised experience.

    Time: 2-3 years
  3. 3

    Pass the ASWB Clinical Exam

    Register and pass the ASWB Clinical exam. The exam covers human development, clinical assessment, psychotherapy, and ethics. The exam fee is $260.

    Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule Cost: $260
  4. 4

    Apply for Your LCSW License

    Submit your application to the Minnesota Board of Social Work. Include MSW transcripts, supervised experience documentation, exam scores, and the application fee of $120.

    Time: 4-8 weeks Cost: $120
  5. 5

    Begin Your Clinical Practice

    Once licensed, you can practice clinical social work independently in Minnesota. LCSWs work in private practice, hospitals, community mental health, schools, and government agencies.

    Time: Immediate once licensed

Key Things to Know

  • Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
  • The licensing exam: The ASWB Clinical Exam is administered by Minnesota Board of Social Work. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
  • Background check required: Minnesota requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
  • Online application available: Minnesota accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
  • Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 40 hours of continuing education every 2 years. .

How Minnesota Compares

Minnesota requires 3000 hours of pre-license education for licensed clinical social workers. This is close to the national average of 3000 hours. The average total cost in Minnesota is around $55,000, compared to the national average of $53,860.

How Much Does a Licensed Clinical Social Worker License Cost in Minnesota?

Cost Item Estimated Range
Pre-License Education $300 - $700
Application Fee $120
Exam Fee $260
Total Estimated Cost $54,500 - $55,500

License Renewal

  • Renewal Period: Every 2 years
  • Continuing Education: 40 hours
  • CE Details:
  • Renewal Fee: $120

Tips for Success

  • Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Minnesota Board of Social Work website for a list of approved providers.
  • Don't rush the exam: With 3000 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
  • Choose your MSW field placement strategically: Your field placement during your MSW often leads to your first job. Choose a clinical placement in your area of interest (mental health, substance abuse, child welfare, healthcare). Treat it as an extended interview.
  • Plan for the supervised hours requirement: You'll need 2-3 years of supervised clinical hours post-MSW before you can get your LCSW. Negotiate supervision as part of your employment — many agencies provide it free. Private supervision costs $50-$150/session.
  • Budget approximately $55,500 for your Minnesota license: This includes $120 in application fees, $260 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $120 in renewal fees every 2 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a licensed clinical social worker license in Minnesota?

Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (3000 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.

How much does it cost to get a licensed clinical social worker license in Minnesota?

The total cost ranges from $54,500 to $55,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($120), and the exam fee ($260).

Can I get a Minnesota licensed clinical social worker license with a criminal record?

The Minnesota Board of Social Work evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Minnesota Board of Social Work for guidance before applying.

Do I need a college degree to become a licensed clinical social worker in Minnesota?

No. Minnesota does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 3000 hours of approved pre-license courses.

Can I take the pre-license courses online in Minnesota?

Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Minnesota Board of Social Work website for a list of approved providers.

Sources

Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Other States

Related Licenses in Minnesota