Social Work License Requirements in Colorado
Explore this guide to social work licensure in Colorado to learn about license types and requirements, along with potential salaries.
At Psychology.org we believe in providing trustworthy and actionable information about degree programs, careers, professional issues, and regional laws concerning the psychology, counseling, and social work professions. Our writers and editors leverage the latest data from primary sources across the site.
We also rely on our freelance Integrity Network, which is comprised of experienced professionals who pull from their first-hand industry experience and expertise to review content for accuracy and completeness. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Colorado offers benefits that include flexible continuing education options and legislation eliminating the national examination requirement for non-clinical licensed social workers. Learn about the current requirements for social work licensure in Colorado.
Colorado Social Work Licensure Requirements
The Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners oversees initial licensing and renewals. The board offers two licensing options: licensed social worker (LSW) and licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). The main difference between the credentials is that the LCSW requires two years of supervised postgraduate clinical experience.
Specific requirements for each type of license are detailed below.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Social Worker in Colorado?
Becoming a social worker in Colorado can take 5-9 years, depending on the type of licensure you pursue. LSWs generally need a four-year bachelor’s degree before applying to a social work master’s program. Graduates with bachelor’s degrees in social work can apply for advanced standing admission to a master of social work program. Advanced standing can reduce the time it takes to earn a master’s from 2-3 years to one year.
LCSWs need an additional two years to complete their post-master’s supervised experience and time to prepare for and take the ASWB clinical examination. Those who opt for a doctorate in social work can spend an additional 3-6 years earning their degree.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Colorado
Colorado offers licensure by endorsement to LSWs who verify an active social work license from another state.
LCSWs have an additional requirement of attesting to one of the following:
- Completion of an exam covering the general areas of social work knowledge;
- Completion of a written exam testing competence to practice social work independently; or
- Acknowledgement that an exam was not required at the time they were licensed, and that they have practiced social work independently during at least five of the prior 10 years.
All applicants, including endorsement applicants, must meet the general requirements outlined above for LSWs and LCSWs, including a master’s or doctorate, jurisprudence exam scores, and criminal history.
Colorado is a member of the multistate Social Work Licensure Compact, allowing for multistate licensure.
How to Renew a Social Work License in Colorado
Social work licensure in Colorado expires on August 31 during odd-numbered years. License renewal requires compliance with the licensing board’s Continuing Professional Competency (CPC) requirements. LSWs and LCSWs can meet these requirements through the board’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program. The CPD requires completing a Professional Practice Rubric and Self-Assessment, creating a learning plan, and logging 40 hours of professional development during each two-year renewal period.
Social workers can also meet their CPC requirements by participating in another state department’s equivalent CPD program or applying for an active duty military exemption.
Salary Expectations for Social Workers in Colorado
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Colorado social worker salaries fell below the national average for all but one occupation: child, family, and school social workers. These professionals earned $64,690 per year compared to the national average of $59,190.
As the table below indicates, average Colorado social worker salaries in 2023 were consistently above $60,000 in all occupations except social workers, all other. The “all other” employment category includes criminal justice social workers and forensic social workers.
| Occupation | Average Hourly Salary | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $31.10 | $64,690 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $30.36 | $63,160 |
| Mental Health and Substance Use Social Workers | $29.48 | $61,330 |
| Social Workers, All Other | $28.14 | $58,520 |
Professional Organizations for Social Workers in Colorado
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW): NASW’s Colorado Chapter hosts workshops, committee meetings, and community gatherings. Members can access a chapter newsletter, virtual monthly office hours with the executive director, legislative updates, and training sessions. Webinar topics include clinical supervision for licensure, ASWB exam prep, and justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion training.
- Colorado Society for Clinical Social Work (CSCSW): The CSCSW represents the interests of clinical social workers and their clients with educational opportunities, practice standards, and advocacy. Members can connect through workshops and conferences, an email listserv, referral services, and committees. CSCSW offers discounted new professional, student, and retiree membership rates.
- Colorado School Social Workers Association (CSSWA): School social workers who join CSSWA can access member-only content, including job postings, networking events, discounted professional education opportunities, and a clinical supervision directory. Regular members pay just $50 annually, and students can join for $25 a year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Work Licensure
The state licensing board requires LSWs to hold a master’s or doctoral degree from a CSWE-accredited program, earn a passing score on the jurisprudence exam, and submit a criminal history. LSWs from other states must verify active licensure.
