Licensure Exam
In order to qualify for licensure in social work in the state of Missouri, applicants must sit for and receive passing scores on the requisite ASWB exam, per statute. (Association of Social Work Boards)
For more information on the exam process, see below. This is provided for information only.
Is there an examination for each tier of licensure?
Yes, for the LBSW, LBSW-IP, LMSW, LCSW, LAMSW. Refer to the following Statute Section for each of the respective license: LBSW & LBSW-IP-337.665(2), LMSW-337.644(2), LCSW-337.615(3),and LAMSW-337.645(3).
What score must I obtain to pass the examination?
Review Rules Section 20CSR 2263-2.050(4)(D) and contact the State Committee for Social Workers at 573.751.0885 to verify the current passing score for Missouri applicants on the "Baccalaureate", "Masters", "Clinical" & "Advanced Generalist" Association of Social Work Board Examination.
How do I prepare for the examination?
There are several publications to review:
For the LMSW, LCSW, and LAMSW:
- The Social Work Dictionary - 6th Edition ($59.99)
- DSM-IV (Not an NASW Press Publication)
- Social Work Desk Reference ($85.00)
- Encyclopedia of Social Work - 20th Edition ($495.00)
- Current Controversies in Social Work Ethics: Case Examples ($15.99)
All of these are valuable resources when reviewing for the test. To place an order for any or all of these publications contact NASW-MO chapter office at chapter.naswmo@socialworkers.org (NASW members receive a 15% discount on select publications when ordered through Missouri Chapter).
For the LBSW & LBSW-IP:
- The Social Work Dictionary - 6th Edition ($59.99)
- Social Work Desk Reference ($85.00)
- Current Controversies in Social Work Ethics: Case Examples ($15.99)
- Encyclopedia of Social Work - 20th Edition ($495.00)
All are valuable resources when reviewing for the test. To place an order for either of these publications contact NASW-MO chapter office at chapter.naswmo@socialworkers.org (NASW members receive a 15% discount on select publications when ordered through Missouri Chapter).
There are preparation courses available online as well.
NASW has a live, virtual Licensure Exam program for potential licensees. - Virtual Licensure Exam Prep Course
If you cannot attend on a specific day, there is an on-line self-paced option. -PassItPro - NASW Social Worker License Exam Prep Program