Becoming an occupational therapist (OT) in Canada involves several important steps, including provisional registration. But what exactly is provisional registration, and how does it work? Let's break it down.
What is Provisional Registration?
Provisional registration is a class of registration issued to applicants waiting to write the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination (NOTCE). It allows them to practice the full scope of occupational therapy under the supervision of a general OT approved by the College.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for provisional registration, applicants must:
- Be registered for the next available sitting of the NOTCE.
- Have an offer of employment where they will be supervised by an OT who has held general registration for at least one year.
- Submit a completed Provisional Registration Supervision Agreement.
- Successfully complete the examination within the specified timeframe.
National Occupational Therapy Certification Exam (NOTCE)
The NOTCE is administered by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). Provisional OTs are required to sit for the exam at the first available sitting. For more information, visit notce-enae.ca.
Exam Outcomes
If You Pass
If you pass the exam, the College will automatically issue general registration, and supervision will no longer be required. You will be informed of this change by email.
If You Fail
If you are unsuccessful at your first attempt, you may extend your provisional registration by 60 days after the next available exam sitting. You must submit a new Provisional Registration Supervision Agreement and provide proof of registration for the next exam.
If you fail a second time, your provisional registration will expire the day the College receives the exam results, and you will no longer be permitted to practice as a provisional OT.
Special Circumstances
If you are unable to sit for the next available exam due to exceptional circumstances (e.g., medical issues, family death), you may request a deferral in writing, providing supporting evidence such as a doctor's note. If granted, your provisional registration will extend until 60 days following the next available exam sitting.
Employment Resources
Here are some helpful websites for your job search:
- Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT)
- Health Force Ontario
- Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists (OSOT)
Supervision Information
Provisional OTs can practice under the supervision of an OT who has been approved by the College and has at least one year of practice experience in Ontario. Supervisors must follow the Provisional Registration Supervision Agreement and Plan templates, which detail the supervision process and expectations.
Application and Registration Requirements
Applicants must meet all registration requirements except for the completion of the NOTCE. If you are ready to apply, make sure you have all the necessary documents and information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about provisional registration:
- Can I attend job orientation or training before completing registration? No, you must receive written confirmation from the College and a registration number before starting employment.
- Can another health professional act as a supervisor? No, only an OT can act as a supervisor. If no OT is available on-site, an offsite supervisor may be approved with a detailed supervision plan.
- Can I switch employers? Yes, but you must submit a new Provisional Registration Supervisor Agreement for approval and inform the College of any changes.
For more information, please follow this link.
