Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in North Dakota, 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 Dakota
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
ND State Board of Social Work Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,380 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Dakota 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 ND State Board of Social Work Examiners and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Dakota
With a median salary of $77,380, Social Workers in North Dakota earn 11% above the national median of $69,480. North Dakota ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median annual salary
$77,380Hourly estimate
$37.2011% above national median
Difference: +$7,900
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#20 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 Dakota | $77,380 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $79,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $89,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $49,600 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 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
ND State Board of Social Work Examiners
PO Box 914, Bismarck, ND, 58502
Phone: 7012220255
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,380 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $91,440 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in North Dakota?
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 Dakota?
North Dakota 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 Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in North Dakota is $77,380. Salaries range from $48,920 (10th percentile) to $101,440 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Social Workers in North Dakota earn 11% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of $77,380.
How many Social Workers work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 140 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to North Dakota 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 Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND State Board of Social Work Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.ndbswe.com/.
How often do you renew a Social Worker license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.