Steps to a California LCSW for Out-of-State LCSWs

Sep 21, 2026

NASW-CA provides step-by-step guidance for individuals holding a valid LCSW in another state who want to obtain a California LCSW. The document explains when out-of-state social workers may be employed, the California requirements for clinical social work and psychotherapy, and the role of the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. It outlines the licensing and testing path, including associate social worker (ASW) registration, required California law/ethics training, and common application pitfalls.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages5

Reading Time13 min

AccessFree to download

Overview

Employment as a Social Worker in California

California LCSW License and Psychotherapy

The California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS)

Most Common Errors

Steps to a California LCSW (Out-of-State LCSWs)

Step 1: Determine if ASW Registration Is Necessary

Step 2: Complete Required California Pre-License Coursework

N A S W National Association of Social Workers ~ California Chapter Steps to a California LCSW for Out-of-State LCSWs NASW-CA developed this document for individuals who hold a valid LCSW in another state and are interested in obtaining a California LCSW. The following topics are addressed: Employment as a social worker in California California LCSW license and performing psychotherapy The California Board of Behavioral Sciences (licensing and regulatory body) Steps to a California LCSW for out-of-state LCSWs Most common errors by applicants Employment as a Social Worker in California In California, individuals with either a BSW or MSW degree can be employed as a social worker without holding a license . However, to perform clinical social work and psychotherapy in California, the social worker must hold an MSW from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited school and obtain a California LCSW, the only social work license in California . California LCSW License and Psychotherapy Clinical Social Work and Psychotherapy Defined by California Law The practice of clinical social work is defined as a service in which a special knowledge of social resources, human capabilities, and the part of unconscious motivation plays in determining behavior, is directed at helping people to achieve more adequate, satisfying, and productive social adjustments. The application of social work principles and methods includes, but is not restricted to, counseling and using applied psychotherapy of a non-medical nature with individuals, families, or groups; providing information and referral services; providing or arranging for the provision of social services; explaining or interpreting the psychosocial aspects in the situation of individuals, families, or groups; helping communities to organize, to provide, or to improve social or health services; or doing research related to social work. Psychotherapy, within the meaning of this chapter (Chapter 14) is the use of psychosocial methods within a professional relationship, to assist the person or persons to achieve a better psychosocial adaptation, to acquire greater human realization of psychosocial potential and adaptation, to modify internal and external conditions which affect individuals, groups, or communities in respect to behavior, emotions, and thinking, in respect to their intrapersonal and interpersonal processes. The California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) The BBS is the licensing and regulatory body for California LCSWs, LMFTs, LPCCs, and LEPs. Applicants are responsible for staying abreast of all licensing requirements and timeframes . BBS Website: [www.bbs.ca.gov](www.bbs.ca.gov) Message the Board: [https://www.dca.ca.gov/webapps/bbs/contact.php](https://www.dca.ca.gov/webapps/bbs/contact.php) BBS Subscriber List: [www.dca.ca.gov/webapps/bbs/subscribe.php](www.dca.ca.gov/webapps/bbs/subscribe.php) BBS Regulations: [www.bbs.ca.gov/pdf/publications/lawsregs.pdf](www.bbs.ca.gov/pdf/publications/lawsregs.pdf) Change of Address: [http://www.bbs.ca.gov/licensees/manage.html](http://www.bbs.ca.gov/licensees/manage.html) LCSW License Process: [www.bbs.ca.gov/applicants/lcsw.html](www.bbs.ca.gov/applicants/lcsw.html) Out-of-State Applicants: [www.bbs.ca.gov/applicants/lcsw.html](www.bbs.ca.gov/applicants/lcsw.html) [Steps to a California LCSW for Out-of-State LCSWs](Steps to a California LCSW for Out-of-State LCSWs) Step 1: Determine if it is necessary to register as an associate social worker (ASW) Step 2: Complete all required California additional pre-license coursework Step 3 : Verify out-of-state experience verification and out-of-state license Step 4 : Submit completed LCSW application packet Step 5 : Pass the California Law and Ethics Exam Step 6 : Pass the ASWB Clinical Level Exam (if not already passed) Step 7 : If registered as an ASW, work under a qualified professional until licensed Step 1: Determine i

FAQs

Do out-of-state LCSW holders need to register as an ASW in California?

They must register as an ASW if they want to perform psychotherapy before obtaining a California LCSW. The ASW designation allows work under a qualified California licensed mental health professional while completing the licensing process.

What training is required before registering as an ASW for out-of-state applicants?

Applicants with an MSW degree from outside California must complete 18 hours of California law and professional ethics training through a BBS-recognized CE provider prior to registering as an ASW. If they do not register as an ASW, they still must complete the 18-hour requirement before submitting the LCSW application.

What is the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) and what does it do?

The BBS is the licensing and regulatory body for California LCSWs and other related license types. Applicants are responsible for staying current on licensing requirements and timeframes.

Sep 21, 2026

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