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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Kentucky eligibility requirements for Social Worker licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Social Work and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $80,410 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $60,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $68,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $86,690 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $52,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $52,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $63,590 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Tennessee | 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $82,220 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $280,130 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $51,550 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Kentucky?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Social Worker license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.