Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
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
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Law and Public Safety • Board of Social Work Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$70,430 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 Jersey
With a median salary of 70,430, Social Workers in New Jersey earn 1% above the national median of $69,480. New Jersey ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$70,430Hourly estimate
$33.861% above national median
Difference: +$950
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#26 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 Jersey | $70,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $75,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $65,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $91,710 | No educational requirements | 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 Jersey | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 60 | Medium | 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
Department of Law and Public Safety • Board of Social Work Examiners
PO Box 45033, Newark, NJ, 7101
Phone: 9735046495
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $101,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,270 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,070 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in New Jersey?
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 Jersey?
New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in New Jersey is 70,430. Salaries range from $41,190 (10th percentile) to $110,800 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Social Workers in New Jersey earn 1% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 70,430.
How many Social Workers work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 840 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to New Jersey 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 Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Law and Public Safety / Board of Social Work Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/sw/Pages/default.aspx.