Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana
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
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$64,720 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 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 Louisiana
With a median salary of 64,720, Social Workers in Louisiana earn 7% below the national median of $69,480. Louisiana ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$64,720Hourly estimate
$31.127% below national median
Difference: -$4,760
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#33 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $64,720 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $46,210 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $89,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $89,520 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | 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
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners
18550 Highland Rd, Suite B, Baton Rouge, LA, 70809
Phone: 2257563470
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $97,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $56,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $38,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Louisiana is 64,720. Salaries range from $37,030 (10th percentile) to $107,680 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Louisiana earn 7% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 64,720.
How many Social Workers work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 880 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The licensing agency is Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals / Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.spbla.com/.