2026 data Michigan board official source

Michigan Occupational Therapist License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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

What the Michigan data shows for Occupational Therapists

Michigan sets the entry bar for occupational therapists at 3,473 training hours and a passing score on NBCOT Certification Exam. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Michigan's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

Upfront cost is $181, with renewal running $158 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.

For occupational therapists, the reciprocity picture is: OT Licensure Compact: 25+ member states.

Licensing Requirements in Michigan

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,473 hours
Exam Requirement
NBCOT Certification Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$181
Renewal Fee
$158
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 Michigan licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Occupational Therapist in Michigan?
Michigan requires 3473 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBCOT Certification Exam), and an initial fee of $181. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Occupational Therapist in Michigan?
Certification as an occupational therapist in Michigan means clearing the state's checklist: 3473 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Michigan licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to Michigan from another state?
For occupational therapists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: OT Licensure Compact: 25+ member states. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Michigan licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Michigan require a background check for Occupational Therapist licensing?
Background screening is part of the occupational therapist licensing process in Michigan. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Occupational Therapist in Michigan?
Licensed occupational therapists in Michigan must complete 36 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $158.

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