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

New York Occupational Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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

What the New York data shows for Occupational Therapists

New York's path to occupational therapist licensure runs through 3,589 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 York folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

Budget $208 to get started, plus $178 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 36-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,589 hours
Exam Requirement
NBCOT Certification Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$208
Renewal Fee
$178
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
36 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Occupational Therapist All New York licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Occupational Therapist in New York? ▼
In New York, the license path calls for 3589 education/training hours, a passing score on NBCOT Certification Exam, and a $208 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as an Occupational Therapist in New York? ▼
To become a licensed occupational therapist in New York, you must meet the state's requirements including 3589 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New York licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to New York 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 New York. Verify the specifics with the New York licensing board.
Does New York require a background check for Occupational Therapist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for occupational therapist licensing in New York. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Occupational Therapist in New York? ▼
Licensed occupational therapists in New York must complete 36 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $178.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.