Exam
Learn everything you need to know about taking the Social Work Licensing Exam.
Already approved to take the exam?
Register for the exam onlineWhen you chose social work, you chose to change lives for the better. Licensure lets the people you serve know they’re in trusted, qualified hands. Across the United States and Canada, the Social Work Licensing Exams open doors to practice, career growth, and deeper professional impact. Find out what the exams cover, why they matter, and how to take the next step.
Four easy steps
- Apply for licensure with your state/provincial board first.
- Once approved, register with ASWB.
- Schedule and sit for the exam at a Pearson test center.
- Get results and receive your license.
The Social Work Licensing Exams
- Are based on the 2026 blueprint, found in the ASWB Examination Guidebook
- Test three content areas across all exam categories (Bachelors, Masters, Advanced Generalist, Clinical)
- Include a total of 122 questions (110 scored, 12 unscored)
- Include a mixture of three- and four-option multiple choice questions
- Have a 4-hour time limit
Exam registration fees
Associate, Bachelors, or Masters exam: US$230
Advanced Generalist or Clinical exam: US$260
ASWB Examination Guidebook
The ASWB Exam Guidebook contains information on the steps for taking the exam, what to expect on exam day, exam creation, and question structure.
Download the GuidebookGetting ready for the exam
As with any test, knowing what to expect will help you be successful.
About ASWBCentral
As part of ASWB’s commitment to improving and streamlining our services, we have created ASWBCentral, a one-stop system for test-takers.
Nonstandard testing arrangements
If you have a disability or other health condition or if English is not your primary language, you may be eligible to receive nonstandard testing arrangements.