How to Renew Your License in Florida for LCSW, LMFT, and LMHC
Renewing your license as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida is a requirement for keeping your license active and in good standing. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to help you through the process.
When to Renew Your License
In Florida, licenses for LCSWs, LMFTs, and LMHCs must be renewed every two years. The renewal deadline falls on March 31st of odd-numbered years (e.g., 2025, 2027). Any CE completed April 1st of one odd year through March 31st of the next odd year count towards the March 31st renewal. Renewing on time is essential to avoid late fees or interruptions in your ability to practice.
Steps to Renew Your License
1. Complete Your Continuing Education (CE) Credits
To renew your license, you’ll need to complete 30 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:
- Medical Errors Prevention: 2 hours (required every renewal)
- Laws and Rules: 3 hours (required every third renewal)
- Ethics and Boundaries: 3 hours (required every second renewal, to be alternated with a Telehealth course)
- Telehealth Training: 3 hours (required every second renewal, to be alternated with an Ethics and Boundaries course)
- Domestic Violence: 2 hours (required every third renewal)
- Qualified Supervision: 4 hours (required every third renewal for Qualified Supervisors)
- General CE courses: The remaining hours can be fulfilled with courses relevant to your field. You must have a total of 30 hours, including the required courses.
Make sure your CE courses are approved by the Florida Board to count toward your renewal.
2. Log In to Your Florida Board of Health Account
Head to the Florida Department of Health (DOH) website, or click here, to log in to your account. If you’re a first-time user, you may need to create an account or reset your login credentials.
3. Verify Your CE Compliance
Florida uses CE Broker to track your completed CE credits. Most CE providers automatically report your credits to CE Broker, but it’s a good idea to log in and confirm that all your credits are recorded accurately. If you have the Professional Plan, or other paid plan, CE Broker will tell you exactly what courses are remaining, if any. All CE Broker plans will show you a transcript of all courses you’ve completed in the past.
4. Submit Your Renewal Application
Once you’ve verified your CE compliance, complete your renewal application in the DOH portal. This takes just minutes to complete. You’ll then be prompted to pay the renewal fee. The renewal fee is currently $120. Payments can be made online through the DOH portal. You’ll receive a confirmation once your renewal is processed.
Late Renewals and Penalties
Missed the March 31st deadline? You can still renew during the late renewal period, but additional fees will apply. Failing to renew during the late period could result in your license becoming null and void, requiring a reinstatement process.
Tips for a Smooth Renewal
- Start Early: Begin working on your CE requirements well before the deadline to avoid a last-minute scramble.
- Choose Approved Providers: Make sure your CE courses are approved by the Florida Board to avoid compliance issues.
- Stay Organized: Keep copies of your CE certificates and renewal confirmations for your records.
- Set Reminders: Mark the renewal deadline on your calendar to avoid missing it.
Stay Licensed and Focused on What Matters
Renewing your LCSW, LMFT, or LMHC license in Florida doesn’t have to be stressful. By staying on top of your CE requirements and deadlines, you’ll keep your license active and be ready to continue serving your clients without interruptions.
Why Use AA Ross Counseling for Your Renewal Continuing Education?
AA Ross Counseling is a Tampa, Florida company owned and operated by a LMHC. Courses are written directly by us, using information based on our own personal experiences in the field as well as knowledge of Florida Law and Florida Board requirements.
Explore our Florida-approved online CE courses for LCSWs, LMFTs, and LMHCs. Our low cost, convenient, easy-to-access, at-your-own-pace options meet all state requirements, so you can complete your CE hours quickly and stress-free. Contact us at 561-704-8746, admin@aarossfamilycounseling.com, or use the chat feature on our website for questions or more information.