Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Illinois Clinical Social Workers – 2026 License Renewal Guide
Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Illinois Clinical Social Workers: Beginning with 2026 renewals, Illinois clinical social workers must complete 1 hour of Cultural Competency continuing education (CE). This new requirement is part of a broader statewide effort to advance health equity and ensure inclusive, culturally responsive care across all healthcare settings.
If you’re a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois, here’s what you need to know about the new requirement — and how to complete it easily and efficiently with Renew Now CE.
Illinois Requirement – Cultural Competency CE for Clinical Social Workers
Under 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1130.5250, all Illinois healthcare professionals who are subject to continuing education — including licensed clinical social workers — must complete at least one hour of Cultural Competency CE during each renewal cycle.
This rule takes effect for licenses renewing in 2026 and continues for all subsequent renewal periods. Clinical social workers must include this training in their regular CE documentation.
Complete Your CE Requirement Online
Renew Now CE offers a 1-hour, Illinois-approved Cultural Competency course that’s fast, online, and easy to complete.
- 100% online and mobile-friendly
- Self-paced and convenient
- Instant certificate of completion
- Approved for Illinois 2026 license renewals
Why Cultural Competency Training Matters in Social Work
Cultural Competency CE helps clinical social workers:
- Recognize how culture, identity, and background impact mental health and treatment outcomes
- Deliver more equitable and effective care to diverse client populations
- Address systemic barriers that affect client well-being
- Build rapport and trust in therapeutic relationships
Beyond being a compliance requirement, this training empowers social workers to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals from all walks of life.
Accreditation
Renew Now CE is accredited as a provider of continuing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This course meets ANCC standards and is widely accepted by social work licensing boards. Clinical social workers should confirm acceptance with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) or their employer if needed.