Are you considering a career as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant in New York State? Great choice! The field is rewarding and in high demand. However, before you can start helping people, you need to be licensed. Let's break down the requirements and steps you need to take to achieve this goal.
Why Licensing is Important
Using the titles "occupational therapist" or "occupational therapy assistant" within New York State requires licensure. This ensures that practitioners meet the high standards necessary to provide quality care. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the licensing process.
Basic Requirements
To be licensed, you must:
- Be of good moral character
- Be at least 21 years old for occupational therapists and 18 for occupational therapy assistants
- Meet education and examination requirements
Application Process
Submit an Application for Licensure (Form 1) and the other necessary forms, along with the appropriate fee, to the Office of the Professions. It’s your responsibility to follow up with anyone you’ve asked to send us material.
Education Requirements
The specific requirements for licensure are outlined in Title 8, Article 156, Section 7904 and Section 7904-a of New York's Education Law and Part 76 of the Commissioner's Regulations. Make sure to read the general licensing information applicable to all professions.
Approved and Accredited Programs
For a list of New York State approved programs, visit the New York State Education Department's Inventory of Registered Programs. For programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), visit AOTA's website.
International Education
If you completed your education outside the United States and it is not AOTA accredited, your educational credentials must be verified by an independent credentials verification organization.
Occupational Therapist Requirements
For New York State Registered or AOTA Accredited Programs, you must have:
- A baccalaureate or entry-level master's degree in occupational therapy, or
- A post-baccalaureate certificate in occupational therapy from an institution acceptable to the Department.
You must also have a minimum of six months of supervised occupational therapy experience, which is typically part of your educational program.
International Programs
If your program is located outside the United States and not AOTA accredited, it must:
- Total not less than four years of postsecondary study, including professional study of occupational therapy
- Culminate in a degree or diploma accepted by the civil authorities of the country in which the studies were completed
- Be determined equivalent by the New York State Education Department to a registered or accredited program, including the required clinical experience
Examination Requirements
Occupational therapists must pass the NBCOT OTR examination, and occupational therapy assistants must pass the COTA examination. The passing score is 450. Examination scores must be sent directly from NBCOT to the New York State Education Department.
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