Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Social Work
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$73,200 median (5% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 73,200, Social Workers in Kentucky earn 5% above the national median of $69,480. Kentucky ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$73,200Hourly estimate
$35.195% above national median
Difference: +$3,720
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $73,200 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $80,410 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $60,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $68,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $86,690 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $52,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $52,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $63,590 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | 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
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Social Work
125 Holmes Street, Suite 310, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025642350
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Kentucky is 73,200. Salaries range from $42,010 (10th percentile) to $116,080 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Kentucky earn 5% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 73,200.
How many Social Workers work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 660 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Social Work. Review agency details at http://bsw.ky.gov/.