Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Social Work Certification and Licensure Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$63,150 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Social Worker licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Social Work Certification and Licensure Board and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $63,150, Social Workers in North Carolina earn 9% below the national median of $69,480. North Carolina ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$63,150Hourly estimate
$30.369% below national median
Difference: -$6,330
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $63,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $86,690 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $52,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $92,750 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $91,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Social Work Certification and Licensure Board
1207 S Cox Street, Suite F, Asheboro, NC, 27203
Phone: 3366251679ext226
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| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $73,100 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in North Carolina?
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 exams are required for Social Workers in North Carolina?
North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in North Carolina is $63,150. Salaries range from $42,900 (10th percentile) to $114,280 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Social Workers in North Carolina earn 9% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of $63,150.
How many Social Workers work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 1,690 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Social Work Certification and Licensure Board. Review agency details at https://www.ncswboard.gov/.
How often do you renew a Social Worker license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.