How many CE hours does a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker need?

40 CE contact hours every 2 years, per the North Carolina Social Work Certification & Licensure Board. 40 CE hours every 2 years, including 4 ethics hours (distance learning capped at 20). Always confirm with the board.

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CE requirements › North Carolina LCSW

North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker: CE & renewal requirements

40 CE contact hours every 2 years

Biennial — two years from issue/last renewal (prorated for short initial cycles).

Source: North Carolina Social Work Certification & Licensure Board · confirmed 2026-06. Requirements change — always verify with the board.

Required topics

At least 4 hrs Ethics per cycle (prorated for short cycles)

First renewal & exemptions

Pro-ration is the main accommodation; self-directed learning projects are no longer accepted.

If your license lapses

A license expired 60+ days without renewal is 'suspended for failure to renew' and requires reapplication with fees.

How CE is tracked

Self-attest via the Renewal Affidavit (don't attach certificates); distance learning must be ASWB-ACE or NASW-NC pre-approved.

Watch out: North Carolina also issues LCSWA (the Associate/provisional level) — don't confuse it with full LCSW. Distance learning is capped at 20 hours and must carry ASWB-ACE/NASW-NC pre-approval.

Are you on track? Check free

Enter your license expiration and CE hours completed — see what you still owe, the pace to finish, and your reminder schedule. No signup.

Informational only, based on the numbers you enter — not legal or licensing advice, and not an official record. Confirm your exact requirement and current status with the North Carolina Social Work Certification & Licensure Board.