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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in New York
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 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 |
| Connecticut | $68,510 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $70,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $65,990 | 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 York | 72 | Medium | 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. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,750 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $82,640 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $84,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,020 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in New York?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. 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/.