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Career

Licensure

The ability to practice occupational therapy is regulated by state licensure agencies. Learn more about AOTA's work on licensure issues.

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What is state licensure?

All 50 states in the United States plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam require occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants to be licensed to provide occupational therapy services.  A license grants you the legal privilege to practice occupational therapy in the state in which you are licensed.

Your occupational therapy license is not the same as the certification that you earn by passing the exam administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). 

State licensure laws and regulations

 

career

Issues in licensure

We monitor issues in state licensure that could impact your ability to practice, such as continuing education, supervision requirements, licensure fees, and other important changes you need to know.