January 2025 IDFPR Update to LCSW Application Process
- NASW-IL Staff
- Jan 10
- 2 min read
Important Update Regarding LCSW Application Process Changes
We have just been informed of a recent change by the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR) that affects the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) application process. IDFPR is now required to provide exam approval at the time an applicant submits their license application; this change is aimed to help speed up the timeline between application submission and receiving approval to take the ASWB clinical exam.
What We Know So Far:
Good Faith Exam Approval: When submitting an LCSW application to IDFPR, applicants will receive an e-mail prompting them to apply to Continental Testing Services (CTS) before registering for the ASWB clinical examination. While this new step grants permission to sit for the ASWB exam, it does not guarantee final license approval.
Dual Application Required: You must apply (and pay fees) to both:
Continental Testing Services (CTS)
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)
After completing your CTS registration and waiting approximately 7–10 business days, IDFPR states you can then register to take the clinical exam with ASWB.
Clarifications Pending with IDFPR
We are aware that this new process raises questions—especially regarding costs and which applicants must comply. The NASW-Illinois Chapter is actively seeking additional details from IDFPR, and we will update you as soon as we learn more.
Financial Concerns
We understand the financial challenges many of our members—particularly those who are unlicensed—are experiencing. Adding another fee to an already costly process is not ideal. The NASW-Illinois Chapter is in discussions with IDFPR and other stakeholders to advocate for our members and address these concerns. Our goal is to ensure that the licensure path is transparent, efficient, and as cost-effective as possible.
Next Steps and Advocacy
If you have already submitted your LCSW application, keep an eye out for an approval email from IDFPR and proceed with CTS and ASWB exam registrations.
We have updated our Licensure Steps webpage to include how to register with CTS and the latest information.
Thank you for your patience and continued dedication to the social work profession in Illinois. We will keep this information updated as more details become available—so be sure to check back to this article and our website regularly.
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