Texas — desert road through Big Bend toward the Chisos Mountains

Texas Occupational Therapist License

Texas Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners

Total Fee
$263
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (FAST Pass via DPS)
Temp License
Available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the educational institution and show the degree conferral date.
  • Passport-Style Photo — A 2x2 color headshot meeting U.S. passport specifications. Photo Specs
  • NBCOT Score Report — Official certification exam results sent directly from NBCOT. NBCOT Portal
  • Social Security Number — Required by state law; if you do not have one, an SSN Statement form must be submitted. SSN Statement Form

How to Apply

  1. Create an Online Account
    Register for an account on the Texas Health Professions Council (HPC) portal to begin the application process.
    Create Account
  2. Submit Application and Pay Fee
    Complete the online application for 'Initial Licensure by Examination' and pay the non-refundable fee (approximately $140).
    Apply Online
  3. Submit Passport-Style Photo
    Provide a recent 2x2 color passport-style photo. This can be emailed as a digital attachment to exam@ptot.texas.gov or mailed to the board.
    Photo Requirements
  4. Order Official Transcripts
    Contact your university registrar to have official transcripts sent directly to the Board. Electronic transcripts are accepted if sent via a secure third-party service.
  5. Complete Fingerprinting
    Schedule a fingerprinting appointment with IdentoGO using the agency service code 11HY44. Results are sent directly to the Board.
    Schedule Fingerprinting
  6. Take the Jurisprudence Exam
    Complete the online, open-book Texas Jurisprudence (JP) Exam. There is no additional fee, and you must pass to proceed.
    Take JP Exam
  7. Request NBCOT Score Report
    Log into your NBCOT account and request that your official score report be sent directly to the Texas Board.
    Request Scores
Total Fee
$263
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.
Apply to transfer

Steps

  1. Submit Endorsement Application
    Apply via the online portal selecting the 'Endorsement' method if you are currently licensed in another state.
    Endorsement Application
  2. Verify Out-of-State Licenses
    The Board will attempt to verify licenses online. If they cannot, you must request an official verification from the other state board.
  3. Submit Employment History
    If not currently licensed but applying based on past experience, submit the Employment History form.
    Employment Form
  4. Complete JP Exam and Fingerprints
    Endorsement applicants must still complete the Texas JP Exam and the fingerprint background check.
    JP Exam Info
Total Fee
$0
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Texas Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners

Keeping Your License Active

Texas Occupational Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Texas Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Renew on the board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$225
Endorsement application$225
Fingerprint check$38.25
Temporary permitSee board

Slow Downs

Incorrect Fingerprint Service Code
Using a code other than 11HY44 will result in the Board not receiving your results, requiring a re-print at your expense.
Transcript Delivery Issues
Transcripts must come directly from the registrar; student-uploaded copies are not accepted.

Questions

Can I practice while my application is pending?
No. You must hold a current, unexpired Texas license and be able to verify it on the Board's website before practicing.
How long does the licensing process take?
Once all required items are received, a license is typically issued within 1-4 business days, though total processing time depends on document arrival.
Do I need to maintain NBCOT certification to keep my Texas license?
The Board does not require you to maintain NBCOT certification for renewal, but you may only use the title 'OTR' if your certification is active. Otherwise, you must use 'OT'.
What are the CE requirements for renewal?
Licensees must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years, including a mandatory HHSC-approved human trafficking prevention course.

Board Info

Texas Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners (ECPTOTE)