SOCIAL WORK EXAM PREP

California LCSW

Law & Ethics Exam

There’s a better way to study.

And you just found it.

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What sets TDC apart:

  • Our comprehensive study system provides a combination of proven techniques to help you succeed on exam day, including online audio, downloadable handouts, and clinical examples that help you understand concepts, not just memorize them
  • Your online access starts immediately, and we offer free extensions
  • 5 full-length practice exams with detailed audio or written rationales, along with additional quizzes to test your knowledge
  • Our structured 10-step study system was developed based on the neuroscience of learning by LCSWs who have passed the exam
  • You’re not alone; experienced LCSW coaches are available to answer questions and provide support
  • This self-paced program takes approximately 35 hours to complete and can be repeated as needed
  • Structured, step-by-step study program developed by social workers who have passed the exam
  • We cover all of the legal and ethical issues that will be tested
  • Don’t worry! We give you anxiety management tools to use as you prepare and for exam day
  • We’re with you until you pass! 

Study smart. Pass with confidence.

Disclaimer: The licensure preparation programs and materials associated with them were not included in the Association of Social Work Boards Approved Continuing Education (ACE) review and are not approved by ASWB for continuing education nor endorsed by ASWB in any manner. 

Get Inspired
by Our Reviews

“When I bought the program, I was honestly dreading starting to study just because I thought it would be such an overwhelming experience and the course would be dense; however, I was PLEASANTLY surprised to find the study material to be easy to follow, and the quick guides made it easy to understand. I found the practice exams super helpful, and they helped me pinpoint what questions/topics I needed to focus on more. I would recommend this program to anyone looking for study material 10/10.”
     
Adriana Castaneda, California
October 10, 2025
California LCSW Law & Ethics Exam Prep
“I opted for the 4-week study method. After completion, I felt confident in my ability to pass the exam. The way TDC structured the course was beneficial to my style of learning/acquiring information. I passed the Law and Ethics exam in my first attempt.”
     
Hana Choe, California
October 6, 2025
California LCSW Law & Ethics Exam Prep
“I loved this program. TDC came highly recommended and I definitely see why. I am someone that can appreciate when concepts are broken down and thoroughly explained as well as utilized in different scenarios to ensure comprehension. I feel like the TDC study materials were successful in providing this type of learning experience for me. I will continue to stay connected with TDC and use their materials for preparations for the LCSW exam!”
     
Kala James, California
September 26, 2025
California LCSW Law & Ethics Exam Prep

California LCSW
Law & Ethics Exam

FAQs

1. What is the structure of the California Law and Ethics exam?

The exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions, of which 50 are scored. Twenty-five are experimental and can occur anywhere on the exam. They do not affect your final score. The BBS does not indicate which questions will count or which are experimental.

2. How much time do I have to complete the exam?

The time allotted to complete the exam is 1 hour and 30 minutes. Accommodations for test-takers with mental or physical health conditions that qualify under the American with Disabilities Act or for English as a Second Language (ESL). Additional accommodations can be requested based on individual needs (e.g., separate room, reader, paper exam).

3. What is the current passing score for the CA LCSW Law and Ethics exam?

The BBS has discontinued publishing passing scores for all of the licensing exams. The most recent information (from 2016-2018), the passing score was in the range of 33-36 out of 50. The 25 experimental questions do not count toward the final score.

4. When will I be eligible to take the California Law and Ethics Exam?

You are eligible to apply for the exam as soon as you receive your Associate Registration Number. Complete the one-page application on the BBS website and submit it with your payment. 

Here is the Law & Ethics Exam Application. 

The processing time for the application is 4-5 weeks. If you are applying for accommodations, submit a separate application at least 90 days prior to your anticipated exam date.

5. What happens once I pass the California Law and Ethics Exam? 

Once you have fulfilled the requirement to pass this exam, you will not need to take it again. The next required exam is the LCSW ASWB Clinical Exam.

6. What are the continuing education (CE) requirements for Law and Ethics?

The BBS requires all associates to complete 3 hours of continuing education (CE) on legal and ethical issues each registration period (annually). The 12-hour course is no longer required for associates who do not pass the Law & Ethics Exam; they must instead complete the 3-hour requirement each year.

7.  Do I have access to a coach?

Absolutely! Free coaching is one of the key features that sets us apart from other companies. While using our program, you can submit a question anytime, and one of our coaches will email you back within two business days with a personalized response. Our programs provide everything you need to PASS WITH CONFIDENCE. If you need additional support, you can discuss your options with your coach.

8. How do I access my course?

You can find your purchased courses in your Study Center.

9. Can I listen to the audio files without using Wi-Fi or data?

No. At this time, audio files are streamed through our website, so you must use either Wi-Fi or mobile data. 

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