The path to obtaining an occupational therapy license in Ohio through endorsement is clearly defined by the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers (OTPTAT) Board. Whether you are an occupational therapist or an occupational therapy assistant seeking licensure in Ohio while holding a valid license in another state or U.S. territory, understanding the process is crucial for a smooth transition.
Eligibility Criteria for Endorsement
The endorsement application is designed for individuals who:
- Hold a current, valid license to practice as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant in another state or U.S. territory.
- Possess a current, valid certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
- Have never held a license to practice in Ohio.
It's important to note that practicing occupational therapy in Ohio is not permitted until you receive your official license.
Required Documentation
The application process necessitates several key documents that must be uploaded electronically:
- Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $100 is required and payable via MasterCard, Visa, or Discover during the online application process.
- Jurisprudence Exam Transcript: Applicants must pass the Ohio OT Jurisprudence Exam with a minimum score of 90%. The exam can be accessed through the myicourse website.
- Education Verification: Submit a certification of entry-level education or an official transcript from an ACOTE-accredited program.
- Licensure Verification: Provide official verification from all jurisdictions where you hold or have held a license or certification.
- NBCOT Certification Verification: Upload the official verification of your NBCOT certification examination score if it has been sent electronically to Ohio.
Additional Requirements and Considerations
For Applicants with Felony Convictions
If you have been convicted of a felony, additional documentation such as court records and a personal statement will be necessary. This may impact the processing time of your application. For specific instructions, refer to the board’s guidelines on their website.
Out of Practice Reference Guide
Applicants who have been out of practice for five or more years must fulfill additional requirements such as continuing education and competency-based performance appraisals. This ensures they meet current practice standards before receiving licensure.
Criminal Records Check
A criminal records check is mandatory for all applicants. Those residing within 75 miles of Ohio should use "WebCheck" services for electronic fingerprint submission. Out-of-state applicants may need ink-rolled fingerprints processed by the FBI, which can take several months.
The Application Process
The application for licensure by endorsement is completed online through the Ohio eLicense portal. Ensure all required documents are uploaded as incomplete applications may result in denial. If your application remains incomplete for over a year, it will be closed automatically.
Upon submission and payment, you will receive a confirmation email. Any changes to your application post-submission are not allowed. For further assistance or queries during the process, contact the Ohio OTPTAT Board directly through their website.
The journey to obtaining your occupational therapy license in Ohio requires careful attention to detail and adherence to outlined procedures. For more information on specific requirements and detailed instructions, please follow this link.
