Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
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
SOCIAL WORK
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$68,990 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 68,990, Social Workers in West Virginia earn 1% below the national median of $69,480. West Virginia ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$68,990Hourly estimate
$33.171% below national median
Difference: -$490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#28 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $68,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $65,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $77,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $86,690 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $73,200 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | 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. |
| Virginia | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | 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
SOCIAL WORK
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3044004980
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,240 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,330 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Social Worker in West 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 exams are required for Social Workers in West Virginia?
West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in West Virginia is 68,990. Salaries range from $43,210 (10th percentile) to $106,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Social Workers in West Virginia earn 1% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 68,990.
How many Social Workers work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 690 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is SOCIAL WORK. Review agency details at http://www.wvsocialworkboard.org/.