Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Montana, 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 Montana
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: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Behavioral Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,600 median (29% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 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 Montana
With a median salary of 49,600, Social Workers in Montana earn 29% below the national median of $69,480. Montana ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$49,600Hourly estimate
$23.8529% below national median
Difference: -$19,880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#49 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $49,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $77,380 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $89,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $74,880 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $59,950 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Board of Behavioral Health
301 South Park, 4th Floor, Helena, MT, 59620
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana 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 Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Montana is 49,600. Salaries range from $41,480 (10th percentile) to $95,640 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Montana earn 29% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 49,600.
How many Social Workers work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 490 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Montana from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Behavioral Health. Review agency details at https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/behavioral-health/license-information/licensed-marriage-and-family-therapist.