ASWB Exam Registration
The complete candidate guidelines to register and apply for the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) licensing exam. Follow these steps to obtain your ATT and book your test with Pearson VUE.
Obtaining Your Social Work License
Licensing candidates in the United States and Canada must pass a standardized multiple-choice examination developed by the **Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)**. The registration process requires coordination between your local jurisdiction’s social work board, the ASWB, and the proctoring organization, Pearson VUE.
Be Prepared for Processing Times
The entire registration lifecycle typically takes between **2 to 6 weeks** depending on your state board’s administrative efficiency. It is critical to secure state board approval before paying fees to the ASWB, as registrations are non-refundable.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Follow this structured path to successfully submit your credentials, obtain authorization, and lock in your test date.
Board Approval
Submit your initial license application, CSWE transcripts, and background check forms directly to your state or provincial licensing board, and wait for eligibility confirmation.
ASWB Portal
Once approved, register in the online ASWB Candidate Portal, select your designated exam level, and pay the mandatory registration fee ($230 or $260).
Receive ATT
Wait to receive your official **Authorization to Test (ATT)** email from ASWB containing your unique Candidate ID and testing window dates (typically valid for 1 year).
Pearson VUE
Create an account on the Pearson VUE candidate portal, find a nearby professional testing center, and schedule your test date 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
ASWB Registration Fees by Exam Level
Review the standard Association of Social Work Boards examination registration fees required to receive your ATT:
| Exam Level | ASWB Fee | Common Degree / Candidate Education |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Exam | $230.00 | Associate of Social Work or relevant degree (varies by state) |
| Bachelors Exam | $230.00 | Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from CSWE-accredited program |
| Masters Exam | $230.00 | Master of Social Work (MSW) for LMSW / CMSW credentials |
| Advanced Generalist | $260.00 | MSW with advanced non-clinical macro experience |
| Clinical Exam | $260.00 | MSW plus 2+ years supervised clinical post-grad experience (LCSW) |
Apply for Accommodations Before Scheduling
If you require testing accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), **you must apply for and receive approval from the ASWB before booking your slot with Pearson VUE**. Accommodations cannot be applied retroactively to an existing appointment, and rescheduling may result in fee forfeitures.
ASWB Test Day Security Protocols
Pearson Professional Centers maintain exceptionally strict proctoring environments. Ensure you review the candidate rules before arrival:
Two Forms of ID
You must present two valid forms of ID with signatures. Your **primary ID** must be government-issued with a photo (e.g., driver’s license, passport). Your **secondary ID** must contain your name and signature (e.g., credit card).
Biometric Screening
Upon check-in, staff will scan your palm veins, capture a digital photograph, and inspect clothing, pockets, and eyeglasses to prevent recording devices inside the testing lab.
Arrive 30 Mins Early
Arriving late can result in immediate forfeiture of your exam slot and registration fees. Plan to arrive at least **30 minutes prior** to complete security check-in procedures comfortably.
Complete ASWB Prep Package
Everything you need to study, practice, and pass the BSW, LMSW, or LCSW exam on your first attempt. Built on the official 2026 content outlines.
Frequently Asked Registration Questions
Find fast answers to common questions about exam scheduling, cancellations, and state board rules.
Q1 What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule my exam?
Q2 When do I receive my official ASWB exam scores?
Q3 What is the ASWB exam retake policy?
Ready to Master the ASWB Exam Outlines?
Once your registration is complete, start your prep with our comprehensive packages, full-length mock tests, and active recall study resources.
