Illinois recently implemented new continuing education requirements for licensed clinical social workers focused on dementia care. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about this state mandate.
How many hours of Alzheimer’s & Dementia training are required in Illinois?
Illinois clinical social workers must complete one contact hour of continuing education on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. This single hour must focus specifically on the diagnosis, treatment, and care of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The requirement became effective for all license renewals occurring on or after January 1, 2026.
Who must complete this training?
All licensed clinical social workers in Illinois must complete the dementia training requirement. This applies to anyone holding an active clinical social work license who is renewing after the January 1, 2026 effective date. The requirement is part of the statutory obligations for license renewal set forth by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Complete Your Required Alzheimer’s & Dementia Training Online
Approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — ANCC-accredited with instant certificate.
When is the Alzheimer’s & Dementia training due?
The dementia training must be completed during your renewal period. Clinical social worker licenses in Illinois renew biennially, and you must fulfill this requirement along with your other 30 hours of continuing education before your license expiration date. If your renewal falls after January 1, 2026, you must include this one hour as part of your CE documentation. The training must be completed within your current renewal cycle and cannot be carried forward from previous periods.
What topics does the training cover?
The state-mandated course addresses essential knowledge for social workers serving clients with cognitive impairment. Content includes identifying signs and symptoms of different dementia types, understanding diagnostic processes, implementing therapeutic interventions, developing effective communication strategies with affected individuals and their families, and recognizing the psychosocial impact of dementia. The training also covers behavioral management techniques and person-centered care approaches that clinical social workers can apply in various practice settings.
Complete Your Required Alzheimer’s & Dementia Training Online
Approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — ANCC-accredited with instant certificate.
Can I take the course online?
Yes, you can complete the Alzheimer’s and dementia training entirely online through approved continuing education providers. Online courses offer the flexibility to study at your own pace from any location with internet access. Most approved providers offer courses that can be completed on computers, tablets, or smartphones. Upon completion, you receive an immediate certificate that satisfies the state requirement.
Which CE providers are approved?
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation recognizes continuing education from providers approved by national accrediting bodies. Look for courses from providers accredited by organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which maintains rigorous standards for educational content and delivery. The course must specifically state that it meets Illinois requirements for clinical social worker dementia training. Always verify that your chosen provider is recognized by IDFPR before enrolling.
How do I get my certificate?
After successfully completing an approved dementia course, you receive a certificate of completion from your CE provider. Most online providers offer instant digital certificates that you can download immediately after finishing the course. Save this certificate with your other continuing education documentation, as you may need to provide proof of completion during the license renewal process. Maintain records of all CE activities for at least five years as required by Illinois regulations.
Complete Your Required Alzheimer’s & Dementia Training Online
Approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation — ANCC-accredited with instant certificate.
Related Illinois CE Resources
- Illinois 2026 License Renewal: Complete Guide to Mandatory CE Requirements
https://renewnowce.com/blog/2025/10/27/illinois-2026-license-renewal-complete-guide-to-mandatory-ce-requirements/ - Illinois 4-Hour Mandated CE Package – Renew Now CE
https://renewnowce.com/course-details/228 - Illinois RN License Renewal CE Package
https://renewnowce.com/course-details/227