Completed Application — Signed and notarized (if paper) application form.
Passport Photograph — A recent passport-style photo must be attached to the application.
Proof of Citizenship — Copy of a document proving legal presence (e.g., Birth Certificate, Passport, or Green Card).
NBCOT Verification — Official verification of certification sent directly from NBCOT to the Board.
State License Verifications — Official verification from every state where you have ever held an OT or OTA license.
How to Apply
Complete Education and Fieldwork
▾
Graduate from an OT program accredited by ACOTE and complete at least 24 weeks of supervised fieldwork.
Pass the NBCOT Exam
▾
Register for and pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) OTR examination.
Register for NBCOT
Submit Initial Application
▾
Complete the online application via the Alabama AccessGov portal or mail a paper application to the Board.
Pay Licensure Fees
▾
Pay the $140 initial license fee. Online applications accept credit/debit cards; paper applications require a cashier's check or money order.
Submit Proof of Citizenship
▾
Provide documentation such as a U.S. Passport or Birth Certificate to verify citizenship or legal presence in the U.S.
Request Verifications
▾
Request that NBCOT send a Letter of Verification directly to the Alabama Board. If you hold or have held licenses in other states, request verifications from those boards as well.
Total Fee
$150
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
Occupational therapists licensed in another state can often apply via endorsement by providing license verification and current NBCOT certification.
Steps
Submit Endorsement Application
▾
Use the standard licensure application portal to apply for licensure by endorsement.
Pay Endorsement Fee
▾
The fee for an OT license by endorsement is $140.
Provide Citizenship Documentation
▾
Upload proof of legal presence as required by Alabama law.
Verify Current Certification
▾
Request a Letter of Verification from NBCOT to be sent to the Alabama Board.
Verify Out-of-State Licenses
▾
Request official letters of good standing from all states where you currently hold or have previously held a license.
Total Fee
$0
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy
Keeping Your License Active
Alabama Occupational Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.