Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota
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
Minnesota Board of Social Work
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,220 median (14% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Minnesota 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 Minnesota Board of Social Work and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Minnesota
With a median salary of $79,220, Social Workers in Minnesota earn 14% above the national median of $69,480. Minnesota ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,407Median annual salary
$79,220Hourly estimate
$38.0914% above national median
Difference: +$9,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $79,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $62,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $88,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $89,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $77,380 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Wisconsin | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 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
Minnesota Board of Social Work
2829 University Avenue Southeast, Suite 340, University Park Plaza, Minneapolis, MN, 55414-3239
Phone: 6126172100
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $124,640 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $465,340 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $64,340 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $98,410 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Minnesota.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Minnesota is $79,220. Salaries range from $54,860 (10th percentile) to $100,570 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Minnesota earn 14% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of $79,220.
How many Social Workers work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 7,240 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Board of Social Work. Review agency details at http://www.socialwork.state.mn.us/.
How often do you renew a Social Worker license in Minnesota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.