Social Work Registry to end operations in 2027
The Social Work Registry, a service established by ASWB in 2004, will wind down operations over the coming twelve months.
The Registry was developed as a tool for professional mobility in social work, a function that is being subsumed by the Social Work Licensure Compact, which has been adopted in 30 U.S. states.
“When ASWB started the Social Work Registry, professional mobility was really challenging for social workers,” said Jennifer Henkel, ASWB Senior Director of Member Engagement and Regulatory Services. “As social work regulatory boards have transitioned to electronic documentation systems and the Compact legislation is being adopted in most states, the need for this type of credential storage has significantly decreased,” Henkel continued.
“ASWB is proud to have offered this service at a low cost for social workers for more than 20 years,” Henkel said. More than 10,000 individuals have participated in the Registry at some point over its two decades of operations, streamlining the paperwork required to get their social work license across state lines.
“At the end of the day, the Compact will provide a faster solution for social workers who need to practice with clients in multiple states or who need to relocate,” Henkel said.
The Registry will stop accepting new applications and renewals as of March 16, 2026. Existing accounts will remain active through March 31, 2027. Registry participants will be able to request a copy of their complete records prior to the system going offline. ASWB will contact participants directly with details.