Welcome to both future and practicing Occupational Therapists! As you begin a new journey or continue your path in the field of Occupational Therapy (OT), an understanding of the licensure process becomes essential. This guide is your comprehensive companion, offering a clear and detailed look into the Occupational Therapy Licensure, no matter where you go!
Occupational Therapy is a dynamic healthcare profession that helps individuals navigate physical, developmental, emotional, or psychological challenges, enabling them to live their life to the fullest. We invite you to dive deeper into what exactly this role entails in our Occupational Therapist Career Guide.
The field is set for considerable growth, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a significant 16 percent increase in OT employment from 2019 to 2029 - a rate much higher than the average for all occupations. You’re stepping into a world of opportunity! So, let's break down all you need to know about your licensure.
- General Requirements to Become an Occupational Therapist
- The Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact
- Occupational Therapy Licensure Requirements by State
- Key Points to Remember About Occupational Therapy Licensure
General Requirements to Become an Occupational Therapist
If you've set your sights on becoming an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA), here is a straightforward sequence of steps to guide you:
- Education: Begin by completing an ACOTE®-accredited OT or OTA educational program. This fundamental step lays the groundwork for your career in Occupational Therapy.
- Fieldwork: Following your educational journey, you'll need to complete your fieldwork requirements. This phase allows you to gain practical experience and apply the academic knowledge you've acquired.
- Certification Examination: After fulfilling your education and fieldwork, you'll need to pass the NBCOT® Certification Examination. Successfully clearing this exam ensures you possess the requisite competencies for effective occupational therapy practice.
- Initial license application and fees: With the certification examination behind you, the final step involves completing your initial license application and paying the respective fee for each state or jurisdiction where you wish to practice. This step marks your official entry into the professional OT community in your chosen location!
The Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact
The Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact (OT Compact) represents a significant stride towards simplifying the licensure process for Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) eager to extend their practice across multiple states. This agreement will allow OTs and OTAs, who maintain good standing in a Compact member state, the promise of practicing in other Compact member states through what will be known as a "compact privilege." This privilege is designed to function similarly to a traditional license.
However, it's important to note that the OT Compact is still on the horizon and has not yet been fully implemented. As of now, the OT Compact has been enacted in some states, which means these states have agreed to participate in the compact through legislation. Despite this progress, the operational aspects of the Compact, particularly the application and issuance of compact privileges, are under development. Throughout 2024, the Compact Commission (OTCC) is collaborating with developers to establish the necessary infrastructure — a database for application processing, interstate data communication, and the issuance of practice privileges.
The OT Compact's potential extends beyond simplifying licensure. It aims to enable OTs and OTAs to respond more effectively to emergency health situations, provide services without geographic limitations, and improve patient care through seamless interstate practice. By establishing an interstate licensure data system, the Compact also promises to enhance public safety through instant verification of licensure information.
The OT Compact is continually evolving, with more states joining the agreement. You can see which states participate in the map below:
For those looking to practice in multiple states, remember: even as states join the OT Licensure Compact, individual state licensure requirements may still apply. Always consult the specific state's licensing board for the most accurate and current information.
As we move closer to 2025, we will continue to provide updates on the progress of the OT Compact and detailed guides on state-specific licensure requirements. The journey towards a more flexible and accessible occupational therapy practice is evolving, and we're here to navigate it with you.
In the next section, we will break down the licensure requirements state by state to give you a comprehensive understanding of what you need to apply for and maintain your license in each state.
Occupational Therapy Licensure Requirements by State
By understanding the specific licensure requirements for each state, you can strategize your career path and seize any opportunity that comes your way. Whether you are eyeing a permanent position, or are enthusiastic about exploring travel OT jobs, this guide aims to make your licensure journey a little smoother. Remember, each state's requirements may change over time, so always ensure to check the respective state's board page for the most accurate and updated information.
Alabama
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Compact: Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: Yes. A limited permit is available for new graduates who have met education requirements for licensure, but have not yet passed the NBCOT examination. This permit allows them to practice under the supervision of a licensed OT for 120 days. There is a $25 fee for both OTs and OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $140.00 for OTs and $115.00 for OTAs. Initial license is good for one year.
- Timeline: Approximately 1 week upon receipt of all required materials
Renewal: After the first year, licenses must be renewed biannually. The renewal fees are $140.00 for OTs and $115.00 for OTAs
More Information: Visit the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy
Alaska
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary permit can be issued to those who have applied and are awaiting their permanent license. A limited permit can be issued to students who have met education requirements for licensure, but have not yet passed the NBCOT examination. A test date must be scheduled.
- In either case there is a $65.00 temporary permit fee
Initial Licensing Fee: A $150.00 nonrefundable application fee plus initial licensure fee of $200.00 for OT or $130.00 for OTA
- Timeline: Approximately 8 weeks upon receipt of all required materials
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The fees are $200.00 for OT or $130.00 for OTA
More Information: Visit the Alaska State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Arizona
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A limited license is available for students who have met education requirements for licensure, but have not yet passed the NBCOT examination.
Initial Licensing Fee: $257.00 for OT or $192.00 for OTA
- Timeline: Within 60 days of receipt of all required materials
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The fees are $135 for OT or $75 for OTA.
More Information: Visit the Arizona State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Arkansas
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary permits are available for students who have met education requirements for licensure, but have not yet passed the NBCOT examination.
- $25 fee for both OTs and OTAs
Initial Licensing Fee: $4 for OT or $3 for OTA
- Timeline: Allow 2-6 weeks for processing of Criminal Background Check. Applications will be processed in the order in which they are received.
Renewal: The renewal of your Arkansas license is to be completed on the ASMB website during your birth month each year. The fee is $3 for OT and OTA.
More Information: Visit the Arkansas State Board of Occupational Therapy
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California
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: CA allows an OT or OTA who holds a current, active and non-restricted license in another state to work in California for 60 calendar days from the date their CA licensure application is received by the Board.
Initial Licensing Fee: A $50 application fee is required with all applications, however, the license fee is prorated based on the applicants' date of birth and month the license is issued. Individuals will be notified of the fee in their approval letter.
- Timeline: Allow 1 month for your application to be reviewed.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The fees are $220 for OTs and $180 for OTAs.
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Colorado
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: $60 for OTs and $25 for OTAs.
Renewal: All Occupational Therapist and Occupational Therapy Assistant licenses expire on December 31 of even-numbered years.
More Information: Visit the Colorado State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Connecticut
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: $200 for OTs and OTAs.
- Timeline: 1-2 weeks
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The fee is $205 for OTs and $180 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Connecticut State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Delaware
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: $223 for OTs and $88 for OTAs.
- Timeline: When the application is complete, it is reviewed for approval of licensure on or before the next Board meeting. You may check the status of your application online throughout the entire application process by using the “View Application Status” feature in DELPROS on your e-License dashboard.
Renewal: Occupational Therapy licenses expire on July 31 of even-numbered years. You are notified of the amount of the renewal fee at the time of renewal.
More Information: Visit the Delaware State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Florida
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary permits are issued based upon a graduate meeting the eligibility requirements to sit the national exam, submission of proof of a scheduled exam date, proof of requesting a score transfer from NBCOT, and employment offer with an assigned licensed OT supervisor.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100 application fee, plus $80 for OTs and OTAs
- Timeline: Applications are generally reviewed within 10 days, at an average of 3-7 days
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The fee is $60 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Florida State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Georgia
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: The Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy may issue a limited permit to a person who has met the educational and experience requirements and is waiting to sit for the NBCOT examination.
Initial Licensing Fee: $60 for OTs and $50 for OTAs.
- Timeline: Applications are generally processed within 20 business days of receipt, excluding weekends and holidays.
Renewal: Renewal is completed online and is required by March 31st of even numbered years. The fee is $64 for OTs and $55 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Hawaii
OT Compact State?No
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: If license is issued in an odd-numbered year, OTs and OTAs will pay $279. If the license is issued in an even-numbered year, OTs and OTAs will pay $186.
- Timeline: Application processing time is generally 45-60 business days, from receipt of a completed application.
Renewal: All licenses, regardless of issue date, expire on December 31 of even-numbered years.
More Information: Visit the Hawaii State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Idaho
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license may be issued to an applicant who is currently licensed and in good standing to practice in another jurisdiction and meets the requirements for licensure by endorsement of the other jurisdiction while the application is being processed. A limited permit may be granted to a graduate occupational therapist or a graduate occupational therapy assistant who has completed the education and experience requirements and shall allow the practice of occupational therapy under supervision while awaiting licensure. These permits are subject to a $25 fee.
Initial Licensing Fee: $80 for OT and $60 for OTA
- Timeline: A license can be issued in approximately 3-5 business days once a complete and valid application is received.
Renewal: Licenses are good for a term of one year and will expire on the birthday of the licensee. Renewal of an active license is $40 for OT and $30 for OTA.
More Information: Visit the Idaho State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Illinois
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: $25 for OT and OTA
Renewal: Illinois licenses expire on December 31 of each odd numbered year.
More Information: Visit the Illinois State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Indiana
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: An application for full licensure must be submitted first, and then submit an application for the temporary permit with a $50.00 application fee. A person with a temporary permit may only practice occupational therapy or occupational therapy assisting under the direct supervision of an Indiana certified occupational therapist that is responsible for the patient.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100 fee for OTs and OTAs
Renewal: OT and OTA licenses expire December 31 of even-numbered years and require a $100 renewal fee.
More Information: Visit the Indiana State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Iowa
OT Compact State?Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: Limited permits are issued based upon a graduate meeting the eligibility requirements to sit the national exam, submission of proof of a scheduled exam date, proof of requesting a score transfer from NBCOT directly to the Iowa Board Office
Initial Licensing Fee: $120 for OTs and OTAs
- Timeline: Applications are reviewed by Board staff as soon as possible, in the order received, typically within 5 business days.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The fee is $60 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Iowa State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Kansas
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license may be issued for those with a complete application, awaiting testing scores. A temporary license must be requested and there is an additional $25 fee.
Initial Licensing Fee: $80 for OTs and OTAs
- Timeline: The review and approval process takes an average of 4 to 8 weeks.
Renewal: All OT licenses expire on March 31; the license must be renewed each year with a $75 renewal fee.
More Information: Visit the Kansas State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Kentucky
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary permit may be granted to a person who has completed the education and experience requirements and has applied for licensure. The temporary permit shall allow the applicant for licensure to practice under the supervision of a licensed OT until a full license is obtained.
Initial Licensing Fee: $50 for OT and $35 for OTA.
Renewal: Licenses need to be renewed every year; renewal fee for an active license should not exceed $50.
More Information: Visit the Kentucky State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Louisiana
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license may be issued for graduates who have met education requirements and are awaiting NBCOT certification. There is an additional $50 fee.
Initial Licensing Fee: $150 for OTs and $100 for OTAs
Renewal: Licenses need to be renewed every year; renewal fee for an active license should not exceed $25.
More Information: Visit the Louisiana State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Maine
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license may be granted to a person who has completed the education and experience requirements. This allows them to practice under the supervision of a licensed OT. There is a $25 fee for OTs and $20 for OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: Both OTs and OTAs will pay $21 for a Criminal History Records Check. OTs will pay a licensure fee of $35 and OTAs will pay $30.
- Timeline: It usually takes about two weeks to process applications.
Renewal: Licenses need to be renewed every year by March 31. The renewal fee for an active license is $35 for OTs and $30 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Maine State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Maryland
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license may be issued only to an applicant pending the results of the next regularly scheduled national certification examination. The candidate must meet all other requirements for licensure and must provide specified documentation relative to exam eligibility. The $200 application fee applies.
Initial Licensing Fee: $200 for OTs and OTAs.
- Timeline: Applications are reviewed on the 3rd Friday of every month and may take up to 4 weeks for Board review.
Renewal: If your license is issued in an even numbered year, your license will expire on 6/30 of the next even numbered year. If your license is issued in an odd numbered year, your license will expire on 6/30 of the next odd numbered year. The renewal fee is $280 for OTs and $200 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Maryland State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Massachusetts
OT Compact State? Pending
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license is issued only to applicants who have not passed the NBCOT certification examination, but meet all other requirements and are scheduled to take the next examination. There is an additional $28 fee on top of regular application fee.
Initial Licensing Fee: $209 for licensure by exam or $265 for licensure by reciprocity for OTs and OTAs
- Timeline: 3-4 weeks once a complete application has been received.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years on the licensee’s birthdate. The renewal fee is $100 for both OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Massachusetts State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Michigan
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: Limited permits are available for those seeking relicensure while they complete the required supervised practice experience.
Initial Licensing Fee: $183.80 for OTs and $102.70 for OTAs
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $162.20 for OTs and OTAS.
More Information: Visit the Michigan State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Minnesota
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary permits are available for those who have completed educational requirements within the past two years, have not yet taken the NBCOT examination, AND have an employer and qualified OT to serve as a supervisor. They’re also to those who have a current and unrestricted OT license in another state or jurisdiction and/or hold a current certificate issued by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. There is a $75 temporary license fee.
Initial Licensing Fee: $185 for OTs and $105 for OTAs
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $185 for OTs and $105 for OTAs
More Information: Visit the Minnesota State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Mississippi
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: Yes. A limited permit is available for new graduates and foreign applicants who have met all other requirements for licensure, but have not yet passed the NBCOT examination.
Initial Licensing Fee: $150 for OTs and $100 for OTAs.
Renewal: All licenses need to be renewed by April 30 of even numbered years. The renewal fee is $150 for OTs and $100 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Mississippi State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Missouri
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: Limited permits are only issued to recent graduates with a degree in occupational therapy from an occupational therapy educational program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education(ACOTE). There is a $10 associated fee for OTs and OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $30 for OTs and $10 for OTAs.
- Timeline: It takes an average of 3-4 weeks once you have completed the application
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $5 for OTs and OTAs
More Information: Visit the Missouri State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Montana
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: $190 for OTs and OTAs
Renewal: Renewals occur annually between April 17 - June 15 with a renewal fee of $110 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Montana State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Nebraska
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary permit may be issued to any person who has applied to take the NCBOT examination and who has completed the education and experience requirements.
Initial Licensing Fee: Licensing fees vary based on time of application. The fee schedule can be found on the application.
Renewal: OT and OTA licenses must be renewed by August 1 of each even-numbered year.
More Information: Visit the Nebraska State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Nevada
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license may be requested by an individual who is an OT or OTA who is licensed in another state and intends to practice in this state for a period of less than 12 months. A provisional license may be requested by a person who has graduated and met educational requirements, but has not taken or passed the NBCOT examination, or someone who is an OT or OTA who was previously certified by NBCOT, but does not have current certification. For both permit types, there is a $300 fee for OTs and $250 for OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $400 for OTs and $325 for OTAs.
- Timeline: Complete applications are processed within 3-5 business days.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $250 for OTs and $175 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Nevada State Board of Occupational Therapy
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New Hampshire
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: Out-of-state applicants with an active license in good standing from another state can be issued a temporary permit while their NH application is being reviewed. There is a $100 associated fee for OTs and OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $60 for OTs and OTAs
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal fee is $110 for OTs and OTAs
More Information: Visit the New Hampshire State Board of Occupational Therapy
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New Jersey
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary permit may be issued to any person who has applied to take the NBCOT examination and who has completed the education and experience requirements. They must also notify the NBCOT to forward Confirmation of Examination and Registration and Eligibility to Examine Letter directly to the Council, as well as have 2 completed Certificates of Good Moral Character.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100 for OTs and OTAs
- Timeline: 7-10 weeks from completed application to licensure
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed by September 30th of every odd year. Fees range from $80-$160 for OTs and $50-$100 for OTAs depending on date of original licensure.
More Information: Visit the New Jersey State Board of Occupational Therapy
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New Mexico
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A provisional permit is available for applicants who have completed the education and experience requirements and who have applied for the NBCOT exam. The applicant must be employed and the employer must sign a supervisory form.
Initial Licensing Fee: If application received between Sept 1 and May 31, $110 for OTs and $100 for OTAs. If application received between June 1 and August 31, $60 for OTs and $50 for OTAs.
- Timeline: Once your application file is complete, a license number will be issued within 2–5 business days.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year. Renewal fees are $85 for OTs and $60 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the New Mexico State Board of Occupational Therapy
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New York
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A provisional permit is available for applicants who have completed the education and experience requirements and who have applied for the NBCOT exam. The associated fee is $70 for OT and OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $294 for OTs and $147 for OTAs.
Renewal: Every 3 years, licenses must be renewed. Renewal fees are $224 for OTs and $114 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the New York State Board of Occupational Therapy
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North Carolina
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: $100 for OTs and OTAs
- Timeline: Licenses are usually issued on Fridays within 1-2 weeks after the application and all required documentation is received and processed by the Board office.
Renewal: Licenses expire on June 30th every year. The renewal fee is $50 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the North Carolina State Board of Occupational Therapy
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North Dakota
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A limited permit may be granted to a person who has completed the education and experience requirements, allowing them to practice under supervision of a ND licensed OT. A limited permit is valid for 4 months or until the results of the passing examination are received by the Board. The fee is $90 for an OT and $80 for an OTA.
Initial Licensing Fee: $50 application fee for all applicants. Licensure fees range from $75-$150 for OTs and from $55-$110 for OTAs, depending on when application is received.
Renewal: Licenses are renewable biennially in even-numbered years. The renewal fee is $150 for OTs and $110 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the North Dakota State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Ohio
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: $100 for OTs and OTAs
Renewal: Occupational Therapist licenses expire on June 30 on odd numbered years. The renewal fee is $70.
More Information: Visit the Ohio State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Oklahoma
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: The board may issue a temporary letter to practice to graduates who have met all requirements, but are awaiting the NBCOT exam. They must practice under direct oversight from a licensed OT. A temporary letter to practice may also be issued to an OT or OTA who is licensed in another state so that they can practice under supervision of another OT while awaiting full OK licensure.
Initial Licensing Fee: $120 for OTs and OTAs
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually prior to November 1. The renewal fee is $100 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Oklahoma State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Oregon
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: Limited Permits are available only once for those who have graduated and met all other requirements and are applying to take the NBCOT examination. The Limited permit costs $25 and is eligible for 90 days from the date of NBCOT Authorization to Test notification.
Initial Licensing Fee: $210 for OTs and $180 for OTAs for a one year license.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years. Renewal fees are $200 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Oregon State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Pennsylvania
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license may be granted to a person who has completed the education and experience requirements and is eligible to take the NBCOT exam. An applicant who has failed the NBCOT once and has applied for re-examination may also be eligible.
Initial Licensing Fee: $30 for OTs and OTAs.
Renewal: Licenses expire on June 30 on odd numbered years. The renewal fee is $55 for OTs and $45 for OTAs.
- Timeline: On average, it can take from 4-6 weeks for an initial review of an application
More Information: Visit the Pennsylvania State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Rhode Island
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: New graduates who have graduated and met all other requirements and are applying to take the NBCOT examination can apply for a graduate license that is valid for 90 days.
Initial Licensing Fee: $140 for OTs and OTAs
Renewal:The renewal fee is $140 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Rhode Island State Board of Occupational Therapy
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South Carolina
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: No
Initial Licensing Fee: $135 for OTs and $115 for OTAs.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed by March 15 on odd years. Renewal fees are $100 for OTs and $80 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the South Carolina State Board of Occupational Therapy
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South Dakota
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A limited permit may be granted to a person who has completed the education and experience requirements and is eligible to take the NBCOT exam. There’s an associated fee of $25.
Initial Licensing Fee: $50 for OTs and OTAs
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually. Renewal fees are $50 for OTs and OTAs
More Information: Visit the South Dakota State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Tennessee
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A limited permit may be granted to a person who has completed the education and experience requirements and is eligible to take the NBCOT exam. An applicant is ineligible for a limited permit if they have previously failed the exam in any state.
Initial Licensing Fee: $110 for OTs and $85 for OTAs
Renewal: Licenses expire every 2 years on the last day of the licensee’s birthday month. Renewal fees are $85 for OTs and $60 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Tennessee State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Texas
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license is only available to an applicant for licensure by examination who is taking the NBCOT exam for the first time. There is an associated fee of $70 for OTs and $55 for OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $140 for OTs and $100 for OTAs.
Renewal: Licenses expire every 2 years on the last day of the licensee’s birthday month. Renewal fees are $248 for OTs and $184 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Texas State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Utah
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: For a period of 10 months, a temporary permit may be granted to a person who has completed the education and experience requirements and is eligible to take the NBCOT exam.
Initial Licensing Fee: $70 for OTs and OTAs
- Timeline: Allow up to six weeks for the licensing board to review your qualifications and issue a license.
Renewal: Licenses expire on May 31 of odd years. The renewal fee for OTs and OTAs is $47.
More Information: Visit the Utah State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Vermont
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license under the direction of an OT licensed in Vermont may be issued to a person who applies for the first time to practice as an OT or OTA while they await the next exam opportunity or the necessary data for licensure without examination is received and reviewed.
Initial Licensing Fee: $115 for OTs and OTAs.
- Timeline: Please allow five business days for processing.
Renewal: Licenses expire on May 31 of even years. The renewal fee is $180 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Vermont State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Virgina
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: Virginia does not issue a temporary license, however, a graduate of an OT or OTA program may practice designated as a License Applicant for 6 months after the date of graduation or until the graduate receives a failing score on the NBCOT exam, whichever comes first.
Initial Licensing Fee: $130 for OTs and $70 for OTAs
- Timeline: Expect a minimum of 8-12 weeks
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed biennially during licensee's birth month in each even-numbered year. The fee is $135.00 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Virginia State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Washington
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A limited permit may be granted to a person who has completed the education and experience requirements and is eligible to take the NBCOT exam. There is an associated fee of $55 for OTs and $45 for OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $166 for OTs and OTAs
Renewal: $157 for OTs and $137 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Washington State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Washington, D.C.
OT Compact State? No
Temporary/Limited Permit: A limited permit may be granted to an applicant who has completed the education and experience requirements and is pending results from the NBCOT exam or an applicant who has applied to re-instate their license They must practice under the supervision of a licensed PT.
Initial Licensing Fee: $264 for OTs and OTAs.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years.
More Information: Visit the Washington DC State Board of Occupational Therapy
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West Virginia
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A limited permit is available to graduates of an approved school and those who are foreign trained while awaiting the NBCOT certification examination. Candidates must take the certification exam within 90 days of the date their Eligibility Confirmation Notice is issued. There is an associated fee of $120 for OTs and $70 for OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $150 for OTs and $100 for OTAs.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years. OT licenses expire on 12/31 and OTA licenses expiring on 6/30. The renewal fee is $120 for OTs and $100 for OTAs.
More Information: Visit the West Virginia State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Wisconsin
OT Compact State? Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary permit may be issued for a period of 6 months if the applicant is a graduate of an approved school and is scheduled to take the national certification examination or has taken the national certification examination and is awaiting results.
Initial Licensing Fee: $60 for OTs and OTAs
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed by 5/31 on odd-numbered years. The renewal fee is $60 for OTs and OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Wisconsin State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Wyoming
OT Compact State?Yes
Temporary/Limited Permit: If an applicant has recently graduated from an accredited OT program and is awaiting to sit for the exam or results, or if they have not practiced OT for more than five years, they will need to apply for a limited permit. There is a $50 fee for OTs and a $25 fee for OTAs.
Initial Licensing Fee: $225 for OTs and $175 for OTAs
- Timeline: Approximately 5-10 days once all supporting documents are received
Renewal: All licenses expire annually on July 31st. The renewal fee is $110 for OTs and $60 for OTAs if postmarked by June 15 prior to expiration. If the fee is mailed beyond June 15, the fee is $210 for OTs and $160 or OTAs.
More Information: Visit the Wyoming State Board of Occupational Therapy
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Key Points to Remember About Occupational Therapy Licensure
Navigating the path towards becoming a fully licensed Occupational Therapist involves several steps. Here are some essential insights to help streamline the process:
- Multi-State Applications: As an Occupational Therapist, you have the freedom to apply for licensure in multiple states concurrently. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those undecided about their preferred practice location or those residing at the confluence of several states. Remember, each state has unique licensure requirements, so always check the specific state board website for accurate details.
- Preparation is Key: Make your licensure process smoother by gathering all required documents beforehand. Most states require a state or federal criminal background check, official academic transcripts, and proof of passing the state's laws and regulations exam related to occupational therapy practice.
- Applying for Jobs: You're free to apply and interview for jobs even while your license is still in the pipeline. Transparency is vital - keep your prospective employer informed about your licensure status. Many states offer recent graduates the option to practice under a temporary license with certain supervision requirements. However, if you don't pass the required examination or your license isn't issued, you won't be permitted to practice until you secure a permanent license.
- No Deadline, but Don't Delay: Typically, new graduates aren't bound by a deadline to apply for their license. However, some states may impose additional requirements on applicants who didn't secure their license immediately after completing their education and passing the required exam. These states may demand further documentation for licensure.
In essence, embarking on your journey as a licensed Occupational Therapist requires diligent preparation, careful adherence to each state's specific requirements, and patience as you navigate the licensure process. You're on an exciting path, and these key points can serve as your compass, guiding you towards your professional goals.
Embrace Your OT Journey: Sign Up with Trusted Today!
We hope this comprehensive guide has been helpful in laying out the path ahead. As you embark on or continue your journey as an OT or OTA, remember that the adventure is just as important as the destination.
So, why wait? Broaden your horizons and experience the unique opportunity to travel and work as an OT. Sign up with Trusted today and unlock a world of possibilities.
