Temporary Permit:

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

This is a temporary license for applicants that have never taken the state social work exam that hold a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited degree in social work (BSW or MSW); OR are enrolled in their final semester leading to their degree in social work. An accredited social work program is one that is either accredited by the CSWE, or, in candidacy status with CSWE at the time of graduation.

Why is the license “temporary”? The Social Work Permit is issued for six months with the stipulation that the licensee must attempt the state social work examination prior to the expiration date indicated on the Social Work Permit. Upon successful passage of the state social work examination, completion of the degree, and submission of all required application materials and completed official college transcript, the permit holder will be issued a Regular License at the appropriate level. A permit holder is not required to have supervision or earn continuing education credits.

To apply for a Temporary Permit:

Due to recent revisions within the WV Code for social workers, this item must be issued by Board staff upon receipt of a written request. Include the name of the applicant, mailing address, daytime or cell phone number, e-mail address (optional), academic degree major, accredited university name and date of graduation. The written request may be sent by e-mail, fax, or mail to the:

West Virginia Board of Social Work
PO Box 5459
Charleston WV 25361

Fax: 304-558-4189

E-mail Amy Polen at: amypolen@wvsocialworkboard.org

Provisional eligibility applications are considered from anyone with a legally-recognized related degree Major who has not previously held a provisional temporary license in the past. For persons that have graduated with a CSWE-accredited Social Work Degree or are currently enrolled in the final semester prior to graduation, request a Temporary Permit application via the same written request method.

We apologize for any inconvenience. We will respond to all requests for applications within five to seven business days.

Thank you