To practice social work in Alberta, you must be registered and obtain an active practice permit. Social work is a regulated profession that implements provisional, general and advanced practice mandatory registration requirements. Registration must be renewed annually and is subject to renewal fees, as well as the maintenance and enforcement of provisional registration requirements and standards for continuing competence.
New applicants begin on the provisional registry, progressing to the general registry after meeting supervised practice requirements, and if applicable, the social work licensure exam.
There are several pathways to becoming registered. Applicants must select the pathway that best suits their academic qualifications and professional status. Registration pathways are below, with links to full descriptions.
Before proceeding:
- Choose the application pathway that applies to your academic qualifications and professional status
- Review the application and documentation requirements
- Review the fee schedule
- Visit applicant FAQs
The requirements listed in each registration pathway will help you complete your application correctly. Please read this information carefully.












