Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AK Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Alaska
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Alaska, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in Alaska
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development • Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing • Board of Social Work Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$60,880 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Alaska
With a median salary of 60,880, Social Workers in Alaska earn 12% below the national median of $69,480. Alaska ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$60,880Hourly estimate
$29.2712% below national median
Difference: -$8,600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#41 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | 109,220 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 108,780 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 106,910 |
| #4 | New Hampshire | 104,770 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 100,150 |
Nearby States Comparison
Social Worker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $60,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Washington | $96,550 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $63,350 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| California | $70,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Hawaii | $108,780 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Washington | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Hawaii | 50 | Low | 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
Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development • Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing • Board of Social Work Examiners
P.O. Box 110806, Juneau, AK, 99811-0806
Phone: 9074652547ext0
Related Careers in Alaska
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $109,700 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $99,560 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $55,950 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Alaska?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Social Workers in Alaska?
Alaska lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Social Workers.
What education do you need to become a Social Worker in Alaska?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Alaska.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Alaska?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Alaska is 60,880. Salaries range from $38,200 (10th percentile) to $114,590 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Alaska compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Alaska earn 12% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 60,880.
How many Social Workers work in Alaska?
Alaska employs approximately 510 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Alaska 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 Social Workers in Alaska?
The licensing agency is Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development / Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing / Board of Social Work Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/SocialWorkExaminers.aspx.