Nebraska Occupational Therapist License
Nebraska DHHS — Occupational Therapy
Total Fee
$175
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 issuing institution to the DHHS Licensure Unit.
- NBCOT Score Report — Official verification of passing the OTR exam sent directly from NBCOT. NBCOT
- Proof of Citizenship/Lawful Presence — A photocopy of a birth certificate, unexpired passport, or other approved document.
- Fingerprint Cards/Live Scan Receipt — Documentation that the background check process has been initiated with the Nebraska State Patrol.
- Verification of Other Licenses — If you hold or have held a license in another state, you must request official verification from that state board.
How to Apply
-
Pass the NBCOT Exam ▾Register for and pass the Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) examination through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy.
NBCOT Website -
Complete the Application Form ▾Download and complete the Nebraska Occupational Therapist application. This is a fillable PDF that must be printed and physically signed.
Download Application -
Submit Fingerprints ▾Complete a criminal background check. Live Scan is preferred at Nebraska State Patrol locations. If out-of-state, request fingerprint cards from the Licensure Unit.
Fingerprint Instructions -
Request Official Transcripts ▾Have your educational institution send official transcripts directly to the Nebraska DHHS Licensure Unit.
-
Submit NBCOT Score Report ▾Request that NBCOT send an official score report or verification of certification directly to the Nebraska Board.
-
Pay Licensing Fees ▾Include a check or money order for the application fee ($120 standard, or $30 if applying Feb-July of even years).
-
Mail Application Package ▾Send the completed application, fee, and supporting documents to: DHHS Licensure Unit, PO Box 94986, Lincoln, NE 68509-4986.
Total Fee
$175
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 OT Compact Eligibility ▾Nebraska is a member of the OT Compact. Check if you can practice via a Compact Privilege if your home state is also a member.
OT Compact -
Submit Standard Application ▾Use the standard application form and complete Section D for Licensure Information from other states.
Download Application -
Request License Verifications ▾Contact every state where you have held a health-related license and have them send verification directly to Nebraska.
-
Provide Proof of Practice ▾If you have not practiced in the last 3 years, you may need to provide proof of 50 hours of continuing education.
Total Fee
$0
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Nebraska DHHS — Occupational Therapy
Keeping Your License Active
Nebraska Occupational Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Nebraska DHHS — Occupational Therapy for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Renew on the board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $175 |
| Endorsement application | $175 |
| Fingerprint check | $35-$50 (varies by state) |
| Temporary permit | See board |
Slow Downs
Incomplete Background Checks
▾
The Nebraska State Patrol will not process fingerprints until the DHHS has received your application and the background check fee is paid.
Incorrect Fee Amount
▾
Fees change based on the month and year of application. Submitting the wrong amount will result in the application being returned.
Missing Transcripts
▾
Transcripts must come directly from the school; applicant-submitted copies are not considered official.
Questions
How long does the licensing process take?
▾
Once all documentation is received, the typical processing time is 1 to 2 weeks.
Do I need a separate certification for Physical Agent Modalities (PAMs)?
▾
Yes, Nebraska requires a separate application and certification to administer superficial thermal, deep thermal, or electrotherapeutic agents.
When does my license expire?
▾
All Nebraska OT licenses expire on August 1st of even-numbered years.
What are the continuing education requirements?
▾
Occupational Therapists must complete 20 hours of acceptable CE during each 24-month renewal period.
Can I get a temporary license?
▾
Yes, if you have completed your education and are waiting to take the NBCOT exam, you can apply for a temporary license to practice under supervision.
Board Info
Nebraska DHHS — Occupational Therapy
Phone(402) 471-2115