2026 data Florida board official source

Florida Occupational Therapist License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Helps patients develop daily living and work skills. Requires masters or doctoral degree.

What the Florida data shows for Occupational Therapists

Florida's path to occupational therapist licensure runs through 3,622 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on NBCOT Certification Exam, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Florida folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

Upfront cost is $215, with renewal running $184 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 36 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, occupational therapists should know: OT Licensure Compact: 25+ member states.

Licensing Requirements in Florida

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,622 hours
Exam Requirement
NBCOT Certification Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$215
Renewal Fee
$184
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
36 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Florida licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Occupational Therapist in Florida?
Florida requires 3622 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBCOT Certification Exam), and an initial fee of $215. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Occupational Therapist in Florida?
Florida licenses occupational therapists who complete its requirements (3622 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Florida licensing board.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to Florida from another state?
Reciprocity for occupational therapists nationally works like this: OT Licensure Compact: 25+ member states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Florida. Verify the specifics with the Florida licensing board.
Does Florida require a background check for Occupational Therapist licensing?
Florida does require a background check before issuing an occupational therapist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Occupational Therapist in Florida?
Licensed occupational therapists in Florida must complete 36 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $184.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites