Social Work Licensing in Texas The Basics
This presentation is designed to give a brief overview for students who are preparing to graduate from a CSWE approved social work program in Texas. Full information is available at the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/socialwork/default.shtm We strongly recommend that you visit the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners website and the Association of Social Work Boards www.aswb.org to ensure that you have the most update information.
Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners WHY SHOULD I GET MY LICENSE AS A SOCIAL WORKER IN TEXAS? Why is licensure required? Social workers are the largest professional group providing mental and social health services to the public. Their actions and decisions frequently have permanent, lifechanging effects on individuals, families, and groups. Because of this, the Texas Legislature determined that the public should be protected from incompetent and unethical social work practices.
What does the licensure law do? Chapter 505 of the Occupations Code is the legal recognition of the social work profession in Texas. Provisions for specialty recognition, private practice, and three categories of licensure are included in the law. The law restricts the use of any social work title or designation to those individuals who meet the minimum qualifications and are licensed.
Must I become licensed? Licensure is required if you identify yourself as a social worker by using titles or initials that create the impression that you are qualified or authorized to practice social work. This includes using any title containing the words "Social Worker" or initials such as LBSW, or LMSW. The board may impose a civil or administrative penalty of not less then $50.00 or more then $500.00 per day for each day an unlicensed individual holds them- selves out to be a social worker.
Is anyone exempt from licensure? You are exempt from licensure if you do not represent yourself to the public - directly or indirectly - as a social worker and do not use any name, title, or designation indicating authorization to practice social work.
When may I start using the titles and initials that indicate my license? Once you have paid your licensing fee and been issued a licensed, you may use your license title or initials.
Am I required to use licensure titles? You are required to indicate your license status by including your license title or initials in all professional uses of your name. This includes, but is not limited to, letters, business cards, and advertising
Why do I have to use license title or initials? The effectiveness of the licensure program is dependent on public awareness. The use of licensing titles or initials informs the public that the individual has met the minimum qualifications for licensure and is governed by the license regulations of the board.
Where should my license be displayed? The law requires you to display your license prominently in your place of business. Board rules also require you display a copy of the code of conduct issued to you by the board at the time of licensure providing the consumer with complaint information.
Time Frame what to expect From application to licensure expect 3 months or more. 1. Submit application (download from TSBSWE website) 2. 3-4 weeks for approval to sit for LBSW or LMSW exam 3. Schedule exam through Association of Social Work Boards Tests are administered by appointment at ACT testing centers throughout the U.S. Registered candidates call the ACT call center to schedule a time to take the test, rather than following a fixed examination schedule 4. Expect license approval in about 2 weeks after passing the exam.
Cost of Social Work Licensing in Texas TSBSWE application fee: $ 91.00 ASWB Bachelor s/master s exam fee $ 230.00 ASWB Clinical exam fee $ 260.00 Original school transcript fee $ varies by school Licensure prep course $ optional and varies
Good to know. Salary surveys indicate that social workers with licenses earn more than those without. More and more employers are requiring licenses
Join NASW! Remember before you graduate, join NASW for years of discounted membership! www.socialworkers.org