Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Social Workers; Marriage & Family Therapists; & Professional Counselors Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$65,990 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 65,990, Social Workers in Pennsylvania earn 5% below the national median of $69,480. Pennsylvania ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$65,990Hourly estimate
$31.735% below national median
Difference: -$3,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#32 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $65,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $75,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $70,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $91,710 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $77,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $68,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $60,990 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Jersey | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Social Workers; Marriage & Family Therapists; & Professional Counselors Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177831389
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Pennsylvania is 65,990. Salaries range from $39,370 (10th percentile) to $109,390 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Pennsylvania earn 5% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 65,990.
How many Social Workers work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 2,040 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Social Workers; Marriage & Family Therapists; & Professional Counselors Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/SocialWorkersMarriageanFamilyTherapistsandProfessionalCounselors/Pages/default.aspx.