Occupational Therapist / New Hampshire
2026 data New Hampshire board official source

New Hampshire Occupational Therapist License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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

What the New Hampshire data shows for Occupational Therapists

New Hampshire's path to occupational therapist licensure runs through 3,000 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. New Hampshire folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

The initial price tag is $75, and renewal costs $75 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 New Hampshire

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,000 hours
Exam Requirement
NBCOT Certification Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
$75
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 New Hampshire licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Occupational Therapist in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, the license path calls for 3000 education/training hours, a passing score on NBCOT Certification Exam, and a $75 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as an Occupational Therapist in New Hampshire?
To become a licensed occupational therapist in New Hampshire, you must meet the state's requirements including 3000 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New Hampshire licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does New Hampshire require a background check for Occupational Therapist licensing?
New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire?
To stay licensed as an occupational therapist in New Hampshire, plan on 36 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $75.

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