Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NH Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in New Hampshire
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in New Hampshire, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in New Hampshire
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
Initial certification requires passing the PRAXIS I pre-professional skills test (PPST) and PRAXIS II, if applicable. The State Board has approved a composite score option for PRAXIS I. Candidates must have an overall score of 518 or higher and a minimum passing score of 172 for Reading; 170 for Writing; and 170 for Mathematics. PRAXIS I and PRAXIS II exemptions are allowed for educators with either a Master's degree or higher, or who have seven or more years of educational experience under a credential issued by another state.
Staff development totaling 75 clock hours (or alternative to clock hours) in the school district and/or school administrative unit staff development plan during the three-year certification period
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Three-year certificate | $130 |
| Three-year renewal | $130 |
| Late filing fee | $50 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NH Department of Education • Division of Educator Support and Higher Education
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$104,770 median (51% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 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 New Hampshire
With a median salary of 104,770, Social Workers in New Hampshire earn 51% above the national median of $69,480. New Hampshire ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,490Median annual salary
$104,770Hourly estimate
$50.3751% above national median
Difference: +$35,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $104,770 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maine | $55,220 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $70,590 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $94,000 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maine | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 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
NH Department of Education • Division of Educator Support and Higher Education
25 Hall Street, Concord, NH, 03301
Phone: 6032712409
Related Careers in New Hampshire
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $88,410 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $65,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $80,220 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $50,260 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in New Hampshire?
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 New Hampshire?
New Hampshire lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Social Workers.
What education do you need to become a Social Worker in New Hampshire?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in New Hampshire.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in New Hampshire?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in New Hampshire is 104,770. Salaries range from $81,950 (10th percentile) to $121,140 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in New Hampshire compare to the national average?
Social Workers in New Hampshire earn 51% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 104,770.
How many Social Workers work in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire employs approximately 80 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?
The licensing agency is NH Department of Education / Division of Educator Support and Higher Education. Review agency details at https://www.education.nh.gov/who-we-are/division-of-educator-support-and-higher-education/bureau-of-credentialing.