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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Social Worker in Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 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 |
| Kentucky | $73,200 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $52,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $63,150 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 70 | Medium | 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. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Social Work
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043674441
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $85,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $94,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,910 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in Virginia?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. 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/.