Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for mental health and substance abuse social workers in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$44,790 median (25% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#44 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Texas 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: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of $44,790, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in Texas earn 25% below the national median of $60,060. Texas ranks #44 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$44,790Hourly estimate
$21.5325% below national median
Difference: -$15,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Salary Ranking
#44 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 region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $44,790 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $43,190 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $49,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $44,050 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 1-13 months |
| New Mexico | $65,600 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
License 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
1801 Congress Ave, Ste 7.300, Austin, TX, 78701
Phone: 5123057700
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists Both state and third-party exams 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 Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in Texas is $44,790. Salaries range from $36,990 (10th percentile) to $78,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss in Texas earn 25% below the national median of $60,060, with a state median of $44,790.
How many Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 5,810 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. Review agency details at http://www.bhec.texas.gov/.
How often do you renew a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.