5 Key Things You Need to Know About Missouri's Occupational Therapy Licensing Process

Navigating the process of obtaining an occupational therapy license in Missouri can be daunting, especially for recent graduates. TinyEYE is here to break down the essential steps and provide clarity on what you need to do to get started. Here are five key things you need to know about Missouri's occupational therapy licensing process:

1. Limited Permits for Recent Graduates

Limited permits are available to recent graduates from an accredited occupational therapy program. You can apply for a limited permit any time before taking the NBCOT exam, but it will only be issued once the NBCOT Confirmation of Examination Registration and Eligibility to Examine form is received by the Missouri Board of Occupational Therapy.

2. Processing Time for Limited Permits

The processing of limited permits is typically done on the same day the application, fee, NBCOT Eligibility to Examine letter, and Jurisprudence Exam are received. The permit's validity is determined by the Eligibility Expiration Date on the NBCOT letter, extending up to 8 weeks from that date.

3. Steps After Passing or Failing the NBCOT Exam

• If you pass the NBCOT exam, your limited permit will be extended for an additional 60 days, during which you can apply for a permanent license by completing the Addendum to Original Application form and paying the appropriate fee.
• If you do not pass the NBCOT exam, you can renew your limited permit by completing the Limited Permit Renewal form and applying for reexamination through NBCOT. The renewed permit will be valid until 8 weeks after the second available examination's expiration date. If you fail the second exam, the permit will be void.

4. Obtaining a Full License

To expedite the process of obtaining a full license, you can pay to have your Initial Score Report sent to the Missouri Board at the time of taking the NBCOT exam. After passing the exam, complete the Addendum to the Original Application form and send it with the correct fee to the Board. Your license will be processed and mailed within a few days.

5. Continuing Competency Credits (CCCs)

Both OTs and OTAs are required to obtain 24 Continuing Competency Credits (CCCs) by June 30 of every odd year. You should keep documentation of your CCCs for 2 years following license renewal. For detailed information on acceptable CCC activities, refer to rule 4 CSR 205-5.010 on the Missouri Board's website.

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