Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Illinois Social Workers – 2026 License Renewal Guide
Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Illinois Social Workers: Beginning with 2026 renewals, Illinois social workers must complete 1 hour of Cultural Competency continuing education (CE). This new requirement supports a broader effort to reduce healthcare disparities and deliver more inclusive, culturally responsive care to individuals and communities across the state.
If you are a licensed social worker in Illinois, here’s what you need to know to meet this new CE requirement — and how to complete your training online, quickly and easily.
Illinois Requirement – Cultural Competency CE for Social Workers
Under 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1130.5250, all Illinois healthcare professionals who are subject to continuing education — including licensed 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 will continue to be a standard requirement in every renewal cycle going forward. Licensed social workers must document this CE as part of their continuing education records.
Complete Your CE Requirement Online
Renew Now CE offers a 1-hour Illinois-approved Cultural Competency course that’s easy to complete on any device.
- 100% online and mobile-friendly
- Self-paced and easy to complete
- Instant certificate of completion
- Approved for the 2026 Illinois renewal cycle
Why Cultural Competency Matters in Social Work Practice
Cultural Competency CE provides social workers with essential knowledge and practical tools to:
- Recognize how cultural identity and background influence client behavior and engagement
- Improve communication and therapeutic rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds
- Reduce bias and enhance service accessibility
- Deliver ethical, client-centered care to all populations
Starting in 2026, social workers must complete this required CE to actively support equity and professionalism in all areas of their practice.
Accreditation
Renew Now CE is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education. This course meets ANCC standards and is widely accepted by licensing boards for social work. Social workers should confirm acceptance with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) or their employer if needed.