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New Hampshire Occupational Therapist License

New Hampshire OPLC — Occupational Therapy

Total Fee
$110
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Initial Application Checklist — A comprehensive list of all items needed for a complete application.
  • Addendum to Universal Application — Specific supplemental form required for Occupational Therapy applicants.
  • Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the ACOTE-accredited institution to the Board.
  • NBCOT Verification Letter — Official verification of certification sent directly from NBCOT to the OPLC.
  • Criminal Background Check Report — Results of the state and FBI fingerprint-based background check.
  • Passport Photograph — One 2x2 inch original head-shot photograph taken within the last 6 months.

How to Apply

  1. Verify NBCOT Certification
    Ensure you have passed the NBCOT OTR exam and maintain active certification. You must arrange for NBCOT to send a verification letter directly to the NH OPLC.
    NBCOT Website
  2. Complete Criminal Background Check
    Applicants must undergo a state and FBI criminal background check. For in-state applicants, schedule an appointment via the NH Department of Safety portal. Out-of-state applicants must use the FD-258 fingerprint card process.
  3. Request Official Transcripts
    Contact your educational institution to have official transcripts sent directly to the OPLC. They can be sent electronically to OPLCLicensing3@oplc.nh.gov or by mail.
  4. Prepare Required Documents
    Download and complete the Occupational Therapy Addendum and gather a 2x2 passport-style photograph taken within the last 6 months.
  5. Submit Online Application
    Create an account on the NH Online Licensing portal and complete the initial application for Occupational Therapist licensure.
  6. Pay Application Fees
    Pay the required initial licensing fee (typically $60 for OTs) at the end of the online application process using a credit or debit card.
Total Fee
$110
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

  1. Verify Out-of-State Licenses
    Request official verification of licensure from every state where you hold or have held a license. NH uses VeriDoc for electronic verifications for many states.
    VeriDoc Portal
  2. Submit Universal Application
    Complete the online application via the OPLC portal, selecting the 'Endorsement' or 'Reciprocity' pathway.
  3. Provide Proof of Active Practice
    If licensed in another state, you must demonstrate you are active in the profession as defined by NH rules (Occ 301.02).
Total Fee
$0
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
New Hampshire OPLC — Occupational Therapy

Keeping Your License Active

New Hampshire Occupational Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the New Hampshire OPLC — Occupational Therapy for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$110
Endorsement application$110
Fingerprint check$35-$50 (varies by state)
Temporary permitSee board

Slow Downs

Incomplete Background Checks
Failure to follow the specific NH Department of Safety instructions or using the wrong ORI number can delay results by weeks.
Third-Party Document Delays
Transcripts and NBCOT letters must come directly from the source. Applicants often mistakenly upload copies themselves, which are not accepted.
Missing Addendum
The online portal requires the 'Addendum to the Universal Application' to be uploaded; forgetting this form will stall the review process.

Questions

How many CEUs are required for renewal?
Occupational Therapists must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. At least half must relate directly to clinical application.
When do New Hampshire OT licenses expire?
All OT licenses expire on December 31st of every odd-numbered year.
Does maintaining NBCOT certification satisfy CE requirements?
Yes, maintenance of current NBCOT certification satisfies all New Hampshire continuing education requirements for renewal.
Can I get a temporary license while waiting for my exam?
Yes, temporary licenses are available for those waiting to sit for the NBCOT exam, provided they work under direct supervision of a licensed OT with at least one year of experience.

Board Info

New Hampshire OPLC — Occupational Therapy
Sources
Last verified 2026-02-25