Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Michigan, 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 Michigan
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite)
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing - Licensing Division • Board of Social Work
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$58,920 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#44 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 Michigan
With a median salary of 58,920, Social Workers in Michigan earn 15% below the national median of $69,480. Michigan ranks #44 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$58,920Hourly estimate
$28.3315% below national median
Difference: -$10,560
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#44 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 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. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 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
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing - Licensing Division • Board of Social Work
P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5173738068
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $78,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $58,610 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,030 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Michigan 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 Michigan?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Michigan is 58,920. Salaries range from $43,560 (10th percentile) to $104,980 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Michigan earn 15% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 58,920.
How many Social Workers work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 1,900 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Michigan 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 Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Professional Licensing - Licensing Division / Board of Social Work. Review agency details at http://www.michigan.gov/bpl.