Application Fee
See agencyVerified by DE Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Delaware
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Delaware, 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 Delaware
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Education
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$91,710 median (32% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#10 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 Delaware
With a median salary of 91,710, Social Workers in Delaware earn 32% above the national median of $69,480. Delaware ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$91,710Hourly estimate
$44.0932% above national median
Difference: +$22,230
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#10 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $91,710 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $77,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $65,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $70,430 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Education
John G. Townsend Building, 401 Federal Street, Suite 2, Dover, DE, 19901-1402
Phone: 3027354000
Related Careers in Delaware
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $78,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,000 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $67,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Delaware?
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 Delaware?
Delaware 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 Delaware?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Social Worker licensure in Delaware.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Delaware?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Delaware is 91,710. Salaries range from $56,200 (10th percentile) to $119,910 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Delaware compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Delaware earn 32% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 91,710.
How many Social Workers work in Delaware?
Delaware employs approximately 140 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Delaware from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Delaware?
The licensing agency is Department of Education. Review agency details at https://www.doe.k12.de.us/.