How long does it take to get an LCSW in Utah?

Utah requires a minimum of 18 months to complete the 3,000 supervised hours (per R156-60a-302c). Most candidates complete the process in 2-3 years working full-time in a clinical setting. The CSW license does not expire while you're accruing hours, so there's flexibility in pacing.

Can I do supervision remotely or via telehealth in Utah?

Yes, remote supervision is allowed via synchronous video/audio methods. However, the remote supervisor must physically visit your practice site at least quarterly. The supervision contract must detail how remote supervision will be conducted and how client confidentiality will be maintained.

Do I need to pass an exam for my CSW license?

No. As of late 2025, Utah does not require any exam for the initial CSW license. The ASWB Clinical exam is only required for the LCSW. However, if you choose to get a CSWI (Certified Social Worker Intern) credential to practice while waiting for exam results, note that hours as a CSWI do not count toward LCSW.

What's the difference between a CSW and a CSWI?

The CSW (Certified Social Worker) is the standard associate-level license for MSW graduates and the credential under which you accrue LCSW hours. The CSWI (Certified Social Worker Intern) is a temporary 6-month credential for those awaiting ASWB Clinical exam results. Critically, hours earned as a CSWI do NOT count toward the 3,000 hours needed for LCSW.

How does the Utah LCSW path compare to the CMHC path?

The two tracks are highly parallel post-SB26: both require 3,000 total hours, 1,200 direct client care, 100 supervision hours (25 observation), and W-2 employment. Key differences: LCSW requires the ASWB Clinical exam ($260) vs. NCMHCE for CMHC; CSW requires no exam while ACMHC may require NCE+NCMHCE; LCSW allows slightly more self-study CE hours (15 vs. 10) at renewal.

Can I transfer my LCSW from another state to Utah?

Utah offers licensure by endorsement for out-of-state LCSWs. Option 1: If your home state has equivalent requirements and you've been actively licensed for 1+ year. Option 2: Document 3,000 hours of active practice as a CSW with employer verification forms. Non-endorsement out-of-state applicants must show all 3,000 hours were supervised by an LCSW only.

What is the SB26 alternate exam pathway for social workers?

Starting January 1, 2027, you can become a fully licensed LCSW without passing the ASWB Clinical exam by completing 500 additional direct client care hours, 25 additional supervision hours (5 direct observation), and obtaining two recommendation letters — one from your direct clinical supervisor and one from another licensed therapist who has observed your work.

CredentialTraxLicensure Compliance

High ComplexityComing SoonCertified Social Worker (CSW) → Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Utah CSW → LCSW Supervision Requirements

Everything you need to know about completing your 3,000 supervised clinical hours in Utah — including the new SB26 changes.

Total Hours

3,000

Calendar Minimum

18 months

Supervision

100

Direct Hours Floor

1,200

Why This State Is Complex

Utah's LCSW track is rated High complexity due to the SB26 reform creating dual requirement tracks based on CSW issuance date, the CSWI credential (whose hours don't count toward LCSW), mandatory direct observation, strict W-2 requirements, and different endorsement pathways for out-of-state applicants (LCSW-only supervision requirement for non-endorsement applicants).

Key Requirements at a Glance

3,000 total hours of post-MSW clinical social work experience while licensed as a CSW

At least 1,200 hours of direct client care (post-May 2024 CSW licenses; 1,000 for pre-May 2024)

100 hours of direct clinical supervision, including 25 hours of direct observation (post-May 2024)

Must be a W-2 employee at an approved facility (agency, hospital, school, non-profit, or government)

Hours earned as a CSWI (Certified Social Worker Intern) do NOT count toward LCSW

Pass the ASWB Clinical Level Examination ($260)

Complete 2-hour suicide prevention training and criminal background check

Supervisor must have 4,000+ hours practice in 2 consecutive years; max 6 supervisees

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Earning hours as a CSWI instead of a CSW — CSWI hours do NOT count toward the 3,000 LCSW requirement

Working as a 1099 independent contractor — only W-2 employee hours qualify

Not filing the supervision contract and Supervisor Verification Form with DOPL before starting to accrue hours

Confusing old vs. new requirements — CSW licenses issued before May 1, 2024 follow grandfathered rules through January 1, 2027

Out-of-state non-endorsement applicants not realizing all 3,000 hours must be under an LCSW ONLY

Assuming practicum hours from MSW program count — they do not; all hours must be post-degree

Frequently Asked Questions

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