LicenseCompass

Licensed Social Worker License in Indiana

Quick Answer

Indiana licenses social workers at multiple tiers through the Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board, requiring the appropriate ASWB exam. The LCSW requires two years of supervised clinical experience. Total estimated initial costs are approximately $380.

Exam
ASWB Exam (level varies)
Total Cost
$380 (est.)
Timeline
4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing)
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every 2 years

Requirements

Licensed Social Worker license in Indiana

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
Background check required
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$100
Exam Fee
$230
Renewal Fee
$50
Total Estimated Cost
$380

Licensing Agency

Indiana Professional Licensing Agency~Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Licensed Social Worker license in Indiana. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$100
Exam FeeEst.$230
Total Estimated Cost$330

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Indiana licensing board.

Licensed Social Worker Salary in Indiana

Entry Level

$53,140

Median

$80,410

Experienced

$105,140

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Licensed Social Worker in Indiana.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    Background check required

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — ASWB Exam (level varies)

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing).

Licensed Social Worker Licensing in Indiana: What to Know

Indiana licenses social workers through the Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board, offering Licensed Social Worker (LSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and other credentials. The LSW requires a BSW or MSW and the appropriate ASWB exam. The LCSW requires an MSW plus two years of supervised clinical experience. Indiana requires continuing education for renewal. The state has been part of national conversations regarding the ASWB exam and equity concerns. Indiana's demand for social workers is strong in the Indianapolis metro area as well as in rural communities throughout the state. The opioid crisis has significantly increased demand for clinical social workers specializing in substance abuse treatment. Indiana's Department of Child Services is one of the largest employers of social workers in the state. Indiana has explored the Social Work Licensure Compact and offers some military spouse licensing accommodations. Background checks are required for all applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Licensed Social Worker license cost in Indiana?
The estimated total cost is $380, including application fees, exam fees ($230), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Licensed Social Worker license in Indiana?
The process typically takes 4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Licensed Social Worker license in Indiana?
You need to pass the ASWB Exam (level varies). Third-party exam required

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.