SWC (credential), LSW, & LCSW Licensure

Detailed information about requirements for applying for the SWC (Clinical Social Worker Candidate) credential and earning the LSW (Licensed Social Worker license; $84 as of July 2024) and LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker license; $84 as of July 2024) licenses, including supervision requirements are here and in the Mental Health Practice Act and the DORA Social Work Rules & Regulations (links in side-bar, choose most recent versions of documents on DORA website and Secretary of State website) . The School Social Work license is provided through the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) (not DORA). For more information see CDE info.

Licensees are required to comply with Colorado's  Continuing Professional Competency (CPC)/Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Program requirements for LSWs and LCSWs. Additionally, for SWCs (Clinical Social Worker Candidates), LSWs and LCSWs, there are  HPPP/Skolnik Act requirements.   

Colorado's MH Practice Act Statute, section 12-245-217 allows those who are clinically licensed in other states to practice for up to 20 days per year in Colorado without having to become licensed in CO (see side bar for Statute link and scroll to 12-245-217; must be in good standing with other licensure boards and practice within scope). 

Although NASW continues its longtime advocacy on this front, there is (generally) no automatic reciprocity for licensure with another state; licensees must check directly with the state in which they reside and the state in which their client resides/will be physically present in at the time that psychotherapy services are provided (via telehealth or in-person) and follow all laws and regulations. 

For information about what to do if you forgot to renew your license, see the  license renewal information.

Licensees who are not currently practicing in the state but who want to keep a license may put their license on "Inactive Status" ( see details here ).