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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in Minnesota
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: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $62,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $88,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $89,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $77,380 | Degree required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 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. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,410 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $91,780 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $74,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $64,630 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Minnesota?
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 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. 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Board of Social Work. Review agency details at http://www.socialwork.state.mn.us/.