Reciprocity application instructions
These instructions are for applicants seeking a license in Massachusetts based on reciprocity.
- Applicants must possess a current social work license substantially equivalent to the appropriate Massachusetts license in education and experience requirements. A certified licensure verification form for all licenses, current and expired, must be submitted in the original, sealed envelope from the issuing jurisdiction.
- An official, certified transcript is required for the highest relevant degree. The transcript must be sent electronically directly from the school to mass.sw.app@aswb.org.
- Three professional references are required. All references must be qualified to evaluate the applicant’s social work experience. Please provide a current email address for each reference so that a secure link can be sent to the references listed on your application.
- LCSW, LSW and LSWA applicants: at least one reference must be licensed at the LICSW or LCSW level, or equivalent social work license in another jurisdiction.
- LICSW applicants: at least one reference must be licensed at the LICSW level, or equivalent social work license in another jurisdiction.
- An official Certified Score Report for the appropriate level of passed ASWB examination is required.
- A criminal history acknowledgment form (PDF) must be notarized, signed with corresponding dates, and mailed or faxed to ASWB.
- A 2” x 2” photo must be uploaded via the online application, or emailed as an attachment to mass.sw.app@aswb.org.
- Applicants will be notified via email when the CORI forms are received, the application has been approved, or if the application needs further attention.
- If applicable, applicants will receive information regarding registering for the ASWB examination.
- If an examination is required, applicants may not register for the examination until the application has been approved.
- LICSW applicants must review the MassHealth enrollment requirement. Learn more.
All fees are nonrefundable
Reciprocity application fees
LICSW: US$267
LCSW: US$241
LSW: US$213
LSWA: US$187
Additional fees
Examination registration fee will be due at the time of registration.
Massachusetts licensure fee will be due after examination and licensure requirements have been met.