Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Social Work
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,690 median (25% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#16 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Virginia eligibility requirements for Social Worker licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Health Professions~Virginia Board of Social Work and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of $86,690, Social Workers in Virginia earn 25% above the national median of $69,480. Virginia ranks #16 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median annual salary
$86,690Hourly estimate
$41.6825% above national median
Difference: +$17,210
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#16 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $86,690 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $77,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $68,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $73,200 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $52,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $63,150 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Maryland | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Carolina | 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
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Social Work
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043674441
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| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $326,130 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,200 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Virginia?
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 education do you need to become a Social Worker in Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in Virginia is $86,690. Salaries range from $39,910 (10th percentile) to $117,640 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Social Workers in Virginia earn 25% above the national median of $69,480, with a state median of $86,690.
How many Social Workers work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 1,000 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Social Work. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/SocialWork/.
How often do you renew a Social Worker license in Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.