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Apply for Provisional LGSW

Provisional License Pathway

Provisional Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) is a master's license type. Apply for a provisional license if you do not have a current social work license of the equivalent type in any state or jurisdiction.
 
Provisional License requirements for LGSW without exam according to Minnesota Statute section 148E are as follows:
 
  • Academic Degree: Master's degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body that the board designates, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university
  • Criminal Background Check: All applicants for initial licensure must complete a criminal background check (CBC) under Minnesota Statutes section 214.075, unless you hold a current standard or temporary social work license in Minnesota
  • Ethical Standards: Must not have engaged in conduct in violation of the Board's ethical standards of practice 

Processing Time, Deadlines, and Important Information

Plan ahead!
  • Getting your provisional license involves multiple steps and generally takes at least three months—in many cases it takes longer.
  • Applications are reviewed in order of date received and initial application review typically takes between 30 and 60 days from the date an application is received by the Board.
  • Current social work students must wait until their degree is conferred to apply for a provisional license.
  • Review application requirements and submit required documentation to avoid delays in processing your application.
  • Find out when a license is required
Application deadlines:
  • Applications remain open for one year from the date your application and fee are received by the Board
  • If you do not complete all application requirements by the one-year deadline, your application will close and you will need to reapply, pay another fee, and may need to complete another CBC
Check your application status online:
  • Login to Online Services to check your application status
  • Review your online application checklist regularly and look at the comments added by Board staff on each item for details
Update your email + mailing address:
  • The Board will contact you about your application via mail
  • If your address changes, login to Online Services to update your mailing address

Application Process

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