On March 24, NASW-Michigan Director of Member Services Duane Breijak hosted a webinar that walked upcoming graduated through some of the immediate obstacles one may face when entering the profession. This workshop provided an overview of the licensure process in Michigan, supervision requirements, the ASWB exam, as well as give new professional tools for salary negotiation and career advancement.
With the current pandemic, there have been several important updates that may impact students entering the field and those with current limited licenses.
Submitting licensure applications
There had been some confusion from LARA about how new social workers should be applying for their limited licenses at this time
At this time, all new applicants should still PAPER MAIL their application and application fee (Bureau of Professional Licensing. PO Box 30670, Lansing, MI 48909)
Transcripts should still be emailed to LARA (bpldata@michigan.gov) once an application has been received and processed
Fingerprinting
Under executive order 2020-30, LARA may suspend fingerprinting requirements at this time
There are current fingerprinting organization still operating, so LARA is recommending that candidates still attempt to get their fingerprints taken
If all agencies in their area are closed or full, LARA only then recommends that the candidate emails their office to request a suspension of the fingerprinting requirement
Candidates need to show documentation that they have attempted to get their fingerprints taken (this can include email communication, screenshots of full fingerprinting times, etc)
Limited licensees and exam extensions
At this time, PearsonVue (the testing centers) are not open and therefore not administering exams
“For individuals with a temporary limited license or limited license that expires and whose exams were canceled due to COVID-19, LARA will allow these licenses to remain valid for an additional 6-month term in order for applicants to sit for their exams and complete remaining requirements for limited or full licensure.”
Individuals who have had their exam cancelled and would like to request an extension should email bpldata@michigan.gov.
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