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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $86,690 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $52,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $92,750 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $91,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Virginia | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
NC Social Work Certification and Licensure Board
1207 S Cox Street, Suite F, Asheboro, NC, 27203
Phone: 3366251679ext226
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in North Carolina?
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 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. 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Social Work Certification and Licensure Board. Review agency details at https://www.ncswboard.gov/.