⚠ Important: Licensing requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with your state licensing board before applying. Last reviewed April 2026.
Home › Licensing Guides › Kentucky
Last Updated: April 2026

Kentucky Social Work Licensing

Complete guide to obtaining your social work license in Kentucky. Requirements, fees, and step-by-step application process.

★
Activation State — 2026 Compact Update

Kentucky is a founding member of the Social Work Licensure Compact

Kentucky is one of the seven states that triggered activation of the Social Work Licensure Compact in April 2024. Once multistate licenses begin issuing in 2026, eligible Kentucky-licensed social workers will be able to apply for a single license authorizing practice across all compact member states.

Status: Compact is activated; multistate license issuance expected 2026. Authoritative source: swcompact.org/compact-map

Check reciprocity
3License Types
$90Application Fee
4,000Clinical Hours (LCSW)
30CE Hours / 2 Years

License Types in Kentucky

LSWA

Licensed Social Worker Associate

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

LCSW-A

Approved Supervisor

Licensing Board

Kentucky Board of Social Work
Official state licensing authority
Visit Board Website

Key Requirements

Exam: ASWB examination required for all license levels
Continuing Education: 30 hours every 2 years required for renewal
Clinical Hours: 4,000 supervised clinical hours required for LCSW licensure

About Social Work in Kentucky

Kentucky has significant demand for social workers in substance use treatment and child welfare. The Appalachian region presents unique rural practice opportunities.

Track Your Kentucky License

Monitor CE hours, renewal deadlines, and supervision hours in your free SocialWorkU dashboard.

Create Free Account