Introduction to West Virginia Social Work Licensure:

West Virginia has three (3) “types” of license available to those who meet specific criteria as set forth within the WV Code §30-30 and Legislative Rule §25-CSR-1. The types (I, II, and III) are briefly defined below.

1. Regular License (A, B, C, D)

2. Temporary Permit (SW)

3. Provisional License, Conditional/Restricted

For complete, detailed descriptions of social work license types, requirements, applications, and additional information, please click the appropriate link or button above.

I. Regular License:

The Regular License type is a full license and consists of four (4) levels as outlined below. Applicants must have earned a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited BSW or MSW degree and taken the appropriate level of Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination in order to apply.

Only regular licensees are eligible for Inactive Status and Emeritus Status licenses.

II. Temporary Permit License:

The Temporary Permit License is a valid license to perform social work in West Virginia while preparing to sit for the appropriate level ASWB exam. Permit applicants have:

1. never taken the state social work exam but have earned their CSWE accredited degree in social work (BSW or MSW) - OR -
2. may be enrolled in the final semester prior to graduation and earning his/her BSW or MSW degree.

The Termporary Permit License holder must attempt the exam under the permit issued to them; it is temporary pending passage of examination. Upon passage of examination, he/she will be eligible for Regular License.

III. Provisional License, Conditional/Restricted:

The Provisional Social Work License is granted to individuals who earned a four-year accredited Bachelor’s or Master’s degree major in a specific area that is recognized by the Board under Legislative Rule §25-CSR-1.3.3. The provisional licensee is not eligible by license or education to perform social work as a contract social worker, independent social worker, fee for service arrangement, or any independent method. The provisional licensee is assigned an employment supervisor in addition to mandatory “licensing supervision” as set forth within Legislative Rule §25-CSR-1.

The Provisional License Compliance Verification Form is due in July of each year from provisional licensees and must be faxed or mailed to the Board of Social Work Examiners.

Provisional Licensees who change employers, DHHR county offices, titles, and/or licensing supervisors must file a Change in Original Agreement for Provisional License Form with the Board.