Endorsement License Procedures for Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Washington

To begin, it is crucial to understand the licensing requirements set by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) for LCSWs. These requirements include:

- Completion of a master's or doctoral degree in social work from an accredited institution.
- Minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience post-graduation, with at least 100 hours of face-to-face supervision.
- Successful completion of coursework in specific content areas, including human behavior and the social environment, social work practice, social policy and services, research, and field education.

You must pass the National Clinical Social Work Examination (ASWB) to demonstrate your competency as an LCSW. Visit the ASWB website to learn more about the exam and access study materials: [ASWB Website](https://www.aswb.org/).

To initiate the application process, visit the Washington DOH website and create an account on the Health Professional Licensing and Regulatory Services (PLARS) portal: [PLARS Portal](https://www.doh.wa.gov/PLARS). Follow the instructions to complete the LCSW endorsement application form.

Collect the following documents to support your endorsement license application:

- Official transcripts verifying your master's or doctoral degree in social work.
- Verification of your supervised clinical experience, including a signed statement from your supervisor(s) documenting your hours.

Ensure you have your ASWB examination results ready for submission. The Washington DOH may require official scores to be sent directly from ASWB.

Undergo a Washington state and national fingerprint-based background check. Visit the Washington DOH website to access the fingerprinting application form: [Fingerprinting Application](https://www.doh.wa.gov/PLARS/Fingerprinting).

Compile all the required documents and submit your completed LCSW endorsement application through the PLARS portal. Pay the relevant application fee and await confirmation from the Washington DOH regarding your application status.

If you hold an active LCSW license in another state, the Washington DOH requires verification from the licensing authority of that state. Obtain the necessary verification forms from the licensing authority's website and follow their instructions for submission.

Once your application and supporting documents are reviewed and approved by the Washington DOH, you will be notified to complete any remaining steps, such as paying the licensing fee and providing proof of professional liability insurance. The DOH will issue your LCSW endorsement upon successful completion of these steps.

For further details on the endorsement license procedure and answers to frequently asked questions, visit the Washington DOH website: [Washington DOH - LCSW Endorsement](https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/ClinicalSocialWorker/Endorsement).

If you have specific inquiries or require personalized guidance, you may contact the Washington DOH directly at [Contact DOH](https://www.doh.wa.gov/AboutUs/ContactUs).

Please note that licensing requirements and processes may change over time, so it's essential to regularly check the official sources for the most up-to-date information.