Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in New York, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in New York
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NYS Education Department • State Board for Social Work
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$75,020 median (8% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet New York eligibility requirements for Social Worker licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to NYS Education Department~State Board for Social Work and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in New York
With a median salary of $75,020, Social Workers in New York earn 8% above the national median of $69,480. New York ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,739Median annual salary
$75,020Hourly estimate
$36.078% above national median
Difference: +$5,540
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#21 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 York | $75,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $70,590 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $94,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $68,510 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New Jersey | $70,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $65,990 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Vermont | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Pennsylvania | 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
NYS Education Department • State Board for Social Work
89 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12234
Phone: 5184743817ext450
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $93,610 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $215,740 | Degree required | 3 years |
| Athletic Trainer | $63,850 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in New York?
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 is the typical Social Worker salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in New York is $75,020. Salaries range from $55,610 (10th percentile) to $105,560 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in New York compare to the national average?
Social Workers in New York earn 8% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of $75,020.
How many Social Workers work in New York?
New York employs approximately 3,190 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to New York 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 New York?
The licensing agency is NYS Education Department / State Board for Social Work. Review agency details at http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/.
How often do you renew a Social Worker license in New York?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.