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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 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Social Worker in California

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Register with licensing agency
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Behavioral Sciences

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $70,440 median (1% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #25 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

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 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Steady

QoQ Employment Change

+1.4%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,758

Median annual salary

$70,440

Hourly estimate

$33.87
1% above national median

Difference: +$960

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$45,150
  • P2525th percentile$55,220
  • P50Median$70,440
  • P7575th percentile$105,490
  • P9090th percentile$133,970

State vs National Median

State: $70,440
National: $69,480

Total employment: 5,780 | Annual openings: N/A

Social Worker Salary Ranking

#25 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Nevada109,220
#2Hawaii108,780
#3Rhode Island106,910
#4New Hampshire104,770
#5Oklahoma100,150

Nearby States Comparison

Social Worker licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
California$70,440Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Oregon$63,350Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Nevada$109,220Degree requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Arizona$60,330Degree requiredThird-party exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
California78HighBoard-specific review required.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
Nevada50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Arizona50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Behavioral Sciences

1625 N Market Blvd., Suite S-200, Sacramento, CA, 95834

Phone: 9165747830

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Related Careers in California

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Audiologist$123,600Varies by state board6-24 months
Chiropractor$85,080Varies by state board6-24 months
Clinical Lab Technologist$71,920Varies by state board6-24 months
Dental Assistant$48,910Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Social Worker in California?

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 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. License status indicator: Active. 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/.