Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AZ Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Arizona
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Arizona, 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 Arizona
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Behavioral Health Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$60,330 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 Arizona
With a median salary of 60,330, Social Workers in Arizona earn 13% below the national median of $69,480. Arizona ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,369Median annual salary
$60,330Hourly estimate
$29.0013% below national median
Difference: -$9,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#42 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $60,330 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $63,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $63,320 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $68,950 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $109,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| California | $70,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Utah | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Colorado | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| California | 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
Board of Behavioral Health Examiners
1740 W Adams St, Ste 3600, Phoenix, AZ, 85007
Phone: 6025421882
Related Careers in Arizona
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $102,130 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $95,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,480 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $49,000 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Arizona?
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 Arizona?
Arizona 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 Arizona?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Arizona.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Arizona?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Arizona is 60,330. Salaries range from $48,270 (10th percentile) to $107,680 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Arizona compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Arizona earn 13% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 60,330.
How many Social Workers work in Arizona?
Arizona employs approximately 2,580 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Arizona 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 Arizona?
The licensing agency is Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.azbbhe.us/.