2026 data Texas board official source

Texas Occupational Therapist License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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

What the Texas data shows for Occupational Therapists

Texas sets the entry bar for occupational therapists at 3,527 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 Texas's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

The initial price tag is $194, and renewal costs $167 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 Texas

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,527 hours
Exam Requirement
NBCOT Certification Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$194
Renewal Fee
$167
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 Texas licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Occupational Therapist in Texas?
Texas requires 3527 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBCOT Certification Exam), and an initial fee of $194. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Occupational Therapist in Texas?
To become a licensed occupational therapist in Texas, you must meet the state's requirements including 3527 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Texas licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to Texas 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 Texas licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Texas require a background check for Occupational Therapist licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for occupational therapist licensing in Texas. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Occupational Therapist in Texas?
Licensed occupational therapists in Texas must complete 36 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $167.

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