Massachusetts Occupational Therapist License
Massachusetts Board of Allied Health — OT
Total Fee
$216
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Available
See board
What You'll Need
- Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the educational institution to the Board showing degree conferral.
- NBCOT Verification — Official score report or verification of certification sent directly from NBCOT. NBCOT
- Notarized CORI Form — Criminal background check authorization form that must be notarized if not signed in person at the Board office.
- Professional References — Two professional references are typically required to attest to the applicant's good moral character.
- Verification of Licensure — If previously licensed in other states, official verification from each state board is required.
How to Apply
-
Pass the NBCOT Exam ▾Successfully complete the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination to become an Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR).
NBCOT Website -
Create a Licensing Portal Account ▾Register for an account on the Massachusetts Health Professions Licensing Portal to begin your application.
-
Submit Online Application ▾Complete the online application for Occupational Therapist licensure and pay the non-refundable fee ($209 for initial exam applicants).
-
Submit Official Transcripts ▾Request that your university send official transcripts directly to the Board showing your degree conferral in Occupational Therapy.
-
Verify NBCOT Certification ▾Request an official Verification of Certification from NBCOT to be sent directly to the Massachusetts Board.
-
Complete CORI Form ▾Download, complete, and notarize the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) acknowledgement form and upload it to the portal.
Total Fee
$216
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
-
Verify Out-of-State Licenses ▾Request official verification of licensure from every state where you have ever held a license to be sent to the Massachusetts Board.
-
Submit Reciprocity Application ▾Apply via the Health Professions Licensing Portal selecting the 'Reciprocity' or 'Endorsement' pathway.
-
Pay Reciprocity Fee ▾The fee for licensure by reciprocity is $265.
Total Fee
$0
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Massachusetts Board of Allied Health — OT
Keeping Your License Active
Massachusetts Occupational Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Massachusetts Board of Allied Health — OT for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $216 |
| Endorsement application | $216 |
| Fingerprint check | $35-$50 (varies by state) |
| Temporary permit | See board |
Slow Downs
Incomplete CORI Form
▾
Failure to have the CORI form notarized or missing the required identification verification will stall the background check process.
Transcript Delivery Issues
▾
Transcripts must come directly from the school; student-uploaded copies are not considered official.
NBCOT Verification Delay
▾
The Board cannot issue a license until they receive official confirmation of passing scores directly from NBCOT.
Questions
How many CEUs are required for renewal?
▾
Massachusetts requires 24 contact hours every two-year renewal cycle, including 2 hours specifically in ethics, laws, and regulations.
When does my license expire?
▾
Licenses expire biennially on the licensee's birthday.
Can I practice while my application is pending?
▾
No. Applicants are allowed to practice only after a permanent license has been issued and verified.
Is there a temporary license available?
▾
Temporary permits may be issued to applicants who have met all requirements except the NBCOT exam and are scheduled for the next available test date.
Board Info
Massachusetts Board of Allied Health — OT
Phone(800) 414-0168