Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) - By Examination
First Time License - Application by Examination
This application is for individuals who have completed the educational requirements in 18VAC140-20-60, and would like approval to take the ASWB Bachelors level examination towards becoming a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW).
Requirements for Application:
Education: Successfully graduate with a bachelor’s degree in social work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program.
Follow these steps to apply for Licensure by Examination
Step 1. Read:
- Laws regarding the Practice of Social Work in the state of Virginia
- Regulations regarding the Practice of Social Work in the state of Virginia.
- LBSW Licensure Process Handbook. This handbook provides detailed information about the required documents and process to obtain a license.
Step 2. Gather & Request Supporting Documentation:
- Review the Application Instructions for Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) by Examination for the documents needed to submit with your online application.
- Gather and request the necessary documents.
Step 3. Apply:
Do not start the online application until you have requested or obtained the applicable documents from Step 2. Submitting incomplete applications will delay the review and approval process.
Begin the Online Application:
- Register for an Account or Login if you have an existing account.
- Select ‘Initial Application’ from the menu.
- Select ‘Social Work’ as the Profession.
- Select ‘Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker’ as the License Type.
- Select ‘Examination’ as the Obtained by Method.
- Click ‘Start Application’.
Complete the Required Fields
Step 4. Upload Documentation:
Within the online application portal, upload the applicable documentation. PDF file format is preferred.
The following are possible documents you may be required to upload within the online application portal:
- National Practitioners Data Bank (NPDB) Self-Query Report
- Proof of Out-of-State License from the issuing jurisdiction
- Proof of Name Change
- Supporting Documentation for any criminal convictions, past actions, or possible impairments.
Step 5. Pay the Fee Online:
Within the online application portal, pay the application fee.
- The fee for Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) is $100.00.
- All fees are nonrefundable.
Step 6. Wait for Board Approval: (up to 30 days from complete application)
