top of page

January 2025 IDFPR Update to LCSW Application Process

  • NASW-IL Staff
  • Jan 10
  • 2 min read
ree

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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

 


31 Comments


One union solutions
One union solutions
Oct 08

Very helpful! Thanks for sharing details about custom clearance service Singapore, it’s a big help for traders.


Like

Madonna James
Madonna James
Oct 08

Struggling to complete your accounting assignments on time? Assignment Desk offers expert accounting assignment help online to make your academic journey easier. Their team of professional writers ensures accuracy, originality, and timely delivery for every project. Whether you need detailed financial analysis or report writing, they’ve got you covered. Moreover, their essay writer unblocked feature helps students craft flawless essays without restrictions, enhancing both creativity and productivity. With expert guidance and affordable prices, Assignment Desk ensures academic excellence for students across the UK. Visit their platform today to experience stress-free and high-quality writing support tailored to your academic needs. Read also: Care Certificate Answers

Like

James David Johny
James David Johny
Oct 03

The January 2025 IDFPR update to the LCSW application process brings important changes for aspiring social workers in the USA. This update aims to simplify the application requirements, improve processing times, and provide clearer guidance for candidates. By streamlining documentation and setting transparent standards, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation ensures that applicants face fewer barriers in obtaining their license. These updates also highlight the importance of staying informed about evolving professional requirements. Just like usa embroidery digitizing, where precision and updated techniques matter, professionals must adapt to new regulations for success in their careers.

Like

jack owen
jack owen
Sep 26

Are you having trouble keeping up with your online courses? This is for students who want to Pay Someone to do My Online Class and who want frank guidance, evaluations, and assistance. Whether you're balancing work and family obligations or are simply stressed out by deadlines, this is the place to connect with people, voice your worries, and get reliable academic help recommendations in the USA. Ask questions, talk about your experiences, and find out how other people are using paid assistance to manage their coursework. Find reliable academic assistance, ask questions, and share your experiences to lessen stress and confidently achieve deadlines.

Like

One union solutions
One union solutions
Sep 21

DDP services are ideal for global e-commerce growth.

Like

CONTACT US

MyNASW Logo

NASW members can submit their question through the NASW Illinois community in MyNASW for fastest response.

 
NASW-Illinois Chapter

​Contact the Chapter

National ​NASW Member Services

800-742-4089

Mon-Fri: 8am-8pm CST

membership@naswdc.org

Social Work Online CE Institute

See the menu on the bottom of their website for technical assistance. 

SPONSORS

Clinical Social Work

© 2025 National Association of Social Workers, Illinois Chapter. All Rights Reserved.                            Privacy Policy

bottom of page