Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Behavioral Sciences
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$70,440 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Social Worker licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Behavioral Sciences and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $70,440, Social Workers in California earn 1% above the national median of $69,480. California ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$70,440Hourly estimate
$33.871% above national median
Difference: +$960
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#25 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $70,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $63,350 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $109,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $60,330 | Degree required | Third-party exam 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Behavioral Sciences
1625 N Market Blvd., Suite S-200, Sacramento, CA, 95834
Phone: 9165747830
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $77,640 | Varies by state board | 1-2 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | 1-12 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $74,150 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in California?
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 is the typical Social Worker salary in California?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in California is $70,440. Salaries range from $45,150 (10th percentile) to $133,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in California compare to the national average?
Social Workers in California earn 1% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of $70,440.
How many Social Workers work in California?
California employs approximately 5,780 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Social Workers in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Behavioral Sciences. Review agency details at https://www.bbs.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Social Worker license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.