South Dakota Social Work Licensure

How to become a Social Worker in South Dakota...

Below are basic guidelines for those wishing to earn their social work licensure in South Dakota. Most procedures and requirements remain constant over the years; however, it is wise to contact the South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners at (605)-642-1600 to make sure you are on the right track.

Follow the steps to earn your South Dakota Social Work License:

Step One:

Successfully complete the educational requirements for your desired South Dakota social work licensure:

  • Social Work Associate (SWA) - A SWA licensure requires a bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited school. Explore bachelor degree programs in psychology here.
  • Social Worker (SW) - For the SW licensure, you will need a bachelor's degree in social work from an accredited school.
  • Certified Social Worker (CSW) - For the CSW, you will need at least a masters degree in social work from an accredited school.
  • A Certified Social Worker in Private, Independent Practice (CSW-PIP) must hold a current CSW license and therefore must have at least a masters degree in social work from an accredited school as well.

Request information from schools offering social work degree programs.

Step Two:

Complete the required work experience associated with you desired South Dakota social work licensure:

  • For the Social Work Associate (SWA), the Social Worker (SW), and the Certified Social Worker (CSW) licensure, there is no work experience required.
  • A CSW-PIP licensure will need 2 years of supervised work experience.

Information about the hours needed and supervision can be found on the following South Dakota Legislature webpage.

Step Three:

Next you will need to submit the appropriate South Dakota social work licensure application to the South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners. Along with your application, include all necessary supporting documents, a letter of professional reference and necessary fees (you will also need to have official transcripts sent directly from your educating institution to the Board).

You may download the application here.

Step Four:

Once the Board has approved your application, you will be notified of your eligibility to take the appropriate level exam. You will find information about the exams here.

Good Luck!

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