Application Fee
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Social Worker Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
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
Board of Registration of Social Workers • Division of Professional Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$94,000 median (35% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 94,000, Social Workers in Massachusetts earn 35% above the national median of $69,480. Massachusetts ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$94,000Hourly estimate
$45.1935% above national median
Difference: +$24,520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#7 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $94,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $104,770 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $70,590 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $75,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $68,510 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $106,910 | No educational requirements | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 54 | 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
Board of Registration of Social Workers • Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 6177273073
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $69,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $57,960 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Massachusetts is 94,000. Salaries range from $60,270 (10th percentile) to $122,910 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Massachusetts earn 35% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 94,000.
How many Social Workers work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 590 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Registration of Social Workers / Division of Professional Licensure. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/licensee/dpl-boards/sw/.