2026 data Hawaii board official source

Hawaii 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 Hawaii data shows for Occupational Therapists

To practice as an occupational therapist in Hawaii, the state licensing board requires 3,789 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NBCOT Certification Exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Hawaii's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

The initial price tag is $253, and renewal costs $213 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 36 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: OT Licensure Compact: 25+ member states.

Licensing Requirements in Hawaii

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,789 hours
Exam Requirement
NBCOT Certification Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$253
Renewal Fee
$213
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 Hawaii licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Occupational Therapist in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, the license path calls for 3789 education/training hours, a passing score on NBCOT Certification Exam, and a $253 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as an Occupational Therapist in Hawaii?
Hawaii licenses occupational therapists who complete its requirements (3789 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Hawaii licensing board.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to Hawaii from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for occupational therapists: OT Licensure Compact: 25+ member states. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Hawaii licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Hawaii require a background check for Occupational Therapist licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for occupational therapist licensing in Hawaii. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Occupational Therapist in Hawaii?
To stay licensed as an occupational therapist in Hawaii, plan on 36 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $213.

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