Frequently Asked Questions

The provisional registry allows social workers to practice until they have met their outstanding registration requirements and are able to progress to the general registry. Most new registrants are on the provisional registry. Typical requirements on the provisional registry include supervised practice hours, a supervisor reference, outstanding documentation, and/or an entry-to-practice exam.

Key responsibilities are to support client/public protection, remain within the agreed scope of supervision, and follow any relevant organizational or contractual terms. Practical expectations typically include:

• Clarify whether the supervisee has active cases and whether there is an organizational process for coverage/transfer.

• Encourage/require the supervisee (or the organization, where applicable) to address continuity of service (appropriate transfer/referral/termination planning).

• Document the situation and supervisory guidance.

• Maintain confidentiality and share information only as authorized/required.

• If the supervisee’s condition creates serious client risk and the supervisee/organization is not responding, consider appropriate escalation consistent with law, policy, and professional obligations.

We strive to be understanding during difficult times for registrants. To request a deferral from your continuing competence requirements, you must provide a request in writing to the director of professional practice including evidence to support your request. The director of professional practice will advise you in writing whether the deferral has been granted, with or without conditions. 

People who have made a complaint can expect to be kept informed about what is happening in the complaints process and any decisions that are made. 

If you qualify for registration, you cannot practice within the scope of social work without being registered. The Health Professions Act makes it an offense to practice without registration and outlines the consequences for individuals and employers who do not comply.  

Once you have fulfilled the requirements outlined in the ACSW Clinical Policies and Procedures, ACSW will inform you.  

We will then notify the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) that you are approved to register for the exam 

• Applicants must register and pay for the exam directly with ASWB 

• ASWB will inform you when you can schedule your exam with their provider at the date, time and location of your choosing 

• You must successfully complete the exam within one year of the date that ACSW submitted your name to the ASWB. If you are unsuccessful, you may take the exam up to three times within the one-year period. After three unsuccessful attempts, you will be required to restart the application process.   

Your registration is renewed annually.  Registrants are notified by email when your registration is due for renewal.

If the Safeguards for Last Resort Termination of Life Act is proclaimed as proposed, health professionals in Alberta would be restricted from initiating discussions about MAID unless the client first requests information about MAID or otherwise raises the topic.

Determining when a client has raised the topic may not always be straightforward. Clients may express concerns about suffering, quality of life, loss of independence, dying, or end-of-life options without specifically referring to MAID. Social workers should be guided by applicable legislation, organizational policy, and professional judgement when responding to these conversations.

Where a client requests information about MAID or otherwise raises the topic, social workers should respond accurately, within their role and knowledge, and ensure the client can access appropriate information or services in a timely manner where further support is needed.

The exam is written in person at one of the ASWB testing centres in Edmonton or Calgary. On the ASWB website you will find a link with the locations of the testing centres, as well as more information. 

Please review the Registration page to understand the appropriate application for you.