What is the Michigan staged licensing system?

Michigan requires three stages: (1) LLMSW (Limited License) with 4,000 supervised hours over minimum 2 years, (2) LMSW (Full License) after passing exam, (3) LMSW-C (Clinical Designation) requiring 2,000 additional clinical hours over minimum 1 year. Total: minimum 3 years.

Why is there a 2,000-hour annual cap?

Michigan statute caps experience credit at 2,000 hours per calendar year. This prevents clinicians from accelerating the timeline by working excessive hours and ensures adequate supervision duration.

Can I take the exam before completing my limited license hours?

Yes. Michigan allows you to sit for the ASWB Clinical exam while still on your limited license (LLMSW). Upon passing, you can apply for full LMSW licensure once hours are complete.

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Michigan LLMSW → LMSW-C Supervision Requirements

Michigan's staged licensing system requires 4,000 hours for LMSW conversion, then 2,000 more for clinical designation.

Total Hours

4,000 + 2,000 clinical

Calendar Minimum

24 months (+ 12 months clinical)

Supervision

Monthly-based (4 hrs/month minimum)

Direct Hours Floor

Not specified

Why This State Is Complex

Michigan uses a three-stage licensing system: Limited License (LLMSW) → Full License (LMSW) → Clinical Designation (LMSW-C). Supervision is monthly-based (4 hrs/month, 2 individual), and there's a 2,000-hour annual cap that makes planning your timeline critical.

Key Requirements at a Glance

Stage 1: 4,000 hours for LLMSW → LMSW conversion (min 2 years)

Stage 2: Additional 2,000 hours for LMSW → LMSW-C (min 1 year)

4 hours supervision per month minimum

2 hours individual supervision per month minimum

50% supervision must include individual contact

16–40 hours per week work range

Maximum 2,000 hours per calendar year

Supervisor must hold matching designation (clinical for clinical path)

ASWB Clinical Exam (can take while on limited license)

Video conferencing supervision permitted

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Exceeding the 2,000-hour annual cap — extra hours don't count

Working fewer than 16 hours per week (doesn't count)

Not tracking Stage 1 vs Stage 2 hours separately

Using a macro-designated supervisor for clinical path (must match)

Frequently Asked Questions

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