Navigate Oregon's four-tier system with comprehensive clinical pathways, open-book jurisprudence testing, and flexible supervision options in the Pacific Northwest.
Oregon's comprehensive four-tier system provides clear progression from baccalaureate to clinical practice with flexible supervision options and open-book jurisprudence testing.
Entry-level license for BSW graduates. Allows non-clinical generalist social work practice including assessment, case management, and community organizing.
Total: ~$150 • Biennial renewal: $110 • 20 CE hours (6 ethics) - exempt first renewal
Master's level license allowing advanced generalist practice. Requires supervision plan and experience completion for full independent authority.
• 24 months of supervised experience required
• 100 hours of supervision during experience period
• Board-approved supervisor required
• Supervision plan must be submitted and approved
Application: $200 • Biennial renewal: $220 • 30 CE hours (6 ethics) - exempt first renewal
Transitional clinical license for MSW graduates pursuing LCSW. Allows supervised clinical practice to accumulate required experience hours.
Application: $260 • Annual renewal: $66 • No CE requirements
Highest level clinical license allowing independent clinical practice, psychotherapy, diagnosis, and treatment. Enables private practice and clinical supervision authority.
Total up to $460 first-time • Biennial renewal: $286 • 40 CE hours (6 ethics + 6 pain mgmt)
Four-tier progression with open-book testing and flexible clinical supervision in the Pacific Northwest
Graduate from CSWE-accredited BSW (for RBSW) or MSW program (for LMSW/CSWA/LCSW). Oregon has 5 accredited programs including online options.
4-6 YearsSubmit application with transcripts and background check. Pass required ASWB exam and open-book Oregon Rules & Laws exam.
6-8 WeeksLMSW requires supervision plan. CSWA begins accumulating clinical hours under LCSW supervision with approved supervision plan.
ImmediateLMSW requires 24 months supervision. CSWA accumulates 3,500 clinical hours (2,000 direct client contact) over minimum 24 months.
2+ YearsCSWA can take ASWB Clinical exam after 75 supervision hours. LCSW license issued after passing exam and completing all requirements.
Available After Requirements MetOregon's Rules and Laws exam is self-administered and open-book, allowing candidates to reference materials while demonstrating knowledge of state regulations.
CSWAs can take the ASWB Clinical exam after just 75 supervision hours, allowing early examination while continuing to accumulate required experience.
Oregon requires 3,500 supervised clinical hours (2,000 direct client contact) completed over minimum 24 months for LCSW, above the national average.
Board may approve supervision by other mental health professionals when supervisees live far from licensed clinical social workers.
All license renewals must be completed online. Paper applications and checks are no longer accepted by the Oregon Board.
All Oregon licenses renew in the licensee's birthday month. Late fees are assessed starting the first day after the renewal month ends.
Oregon is not currently a member of the Social Work Interstate Compact. Practice in other states requires separate licensure applications.
oregon.gov/blsw
Online applications and
renewals required
Open-book Rules & Laws
Jurisprudence Exam
Not a member state
Separate licensure required