Application Fee
See agencyVerified by FL Board of Healthcare
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Licensing in Florida
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for mental health and substance abuse social workers in Florida, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Florida
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
FL Department of Health • Division of Medical Quality Assurance
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,860 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Florida eligibility requirements for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to FL Department of Health~Division of Medical Quality Assurance and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Florida
With a median salary of $50,860, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in Florida earn 15% below the national median of $60,060. Florida ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-0.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,330Median annual salary
$50,860Hourly estimate
$24.4515% below national median
Difference: -$9,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Salary Ranking
#29 of 50 statesfor Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | $80,230 |
| #2 | Connecticut | $78,820 |
| #3 | Minnesota | $77,100 |
| #4 | California | $75,320 |
| #5 | Oregon | $71,830 |
Nearby States Comparison
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
FL Department of Health • Division of Medical Quality Assurance
4042 Bald Cypress Way, Tallahassee, Fl, 32399-3250
Phone: 8504880595
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Florida?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in Florida?
Florida lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss.
What education do you need to become a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Florida?
The board typically expects Degree required for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers licensure in Florida.
What is the typical Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary in Florida?
The median annual salary for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in Florida is $50,860. Salaries range from $38,420 (10th percentile) to $76,810 (90th percentile).
How does the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary in Florida compare to the national average?
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in Florida earn 15% below the national median of $60,060, with a state median of $50,860.
How many Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss work in Florida?
Florida employs approximately 6,260 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers license to Florida from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in Florida?
The licensing agency is FL Department of Health / Division of Medical Quality Assurance. Review agency details at https://www.doh.state.fl.us/.
How often do you renew a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers license in Florida?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.