California LCSW · verified Aug 19, 2026

California LCSW CE requirements

A practical, source-linked summary of the continuing education requirements that apply to California LCSW license renewals.

36 hours every two years

California says LCSW licensees complete 36 CE hours during each renewal period, including six hours of California Law and Ethics.

What belongs in the 36 hours

  • 36 total CE hours: Required during each two-year renewal period.
  • 6 hours California Law & Ethics: Required within the 36 hours for each renewal period.
  • First-renewal coursework: Some one-time requirements may apply based on licensure history.

Before you enroll

Check that the course is offered by a Board-accepted provider and that the description meets your needed topic. If this is your first renewal, review the California summary chart because one-time coursework may apply.

Read California BBS continuing education requirements ↗

Holding New York too?

New York has the same 36-hour total but a different three-year cycle and provider rules. Compare California + New York LCSW CE requirements.