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Practice Essentials

Occupational therapy scope of practice

Our profession's scope of practice is continually evolving. Learn about the latest scope of practice and state requirements for occupational therapy practitioners, as well as AOTA's latest scope of practice advocacy efforts so you can have the most impact on your client's quality of care.

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Scope of practice decision guide

Access decision guides and other resources to help you address scope of practice questions.

Decide now

State requirements

An occupational therapist's or occupational therapy assistant's scope of practice is defined in state law. Scope of practice describes the domain of practice and delineates the services that the OT practitioner is deemed qualified to perform and permitted under the law. 

AOTA's resources outline specific requirements in your state.

State licensure
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Advocacy

AOTA advocates for the profession by ensuring that OTs and OTAs can practice to the full extent of their license, defined by state practice acts. Learn more about AOTA's advocacy efforts related to scope of practice.

Scope of Practice Advocacy