Reviving Your Professional Journey: Reinstating Your Lapsed License in Oregon
As a professional in the field of occupational therapy, maintaining an active license is essential for continuing your practice and contributing to the community. However, life can be unpredictable, and sometimes licenses lapse. If you find yourself in this situation in Oregon, don't worry! The process to reinstate your lapsed license is straightforward, and we're here to guide you through it.
Understanding the Lapsed License
According to Oregon law, any occupational therapy license not renewed by June 1 of even-numbered years will automatically lapse. Fortunately, the Oregon Board allows for the revival and renewal of lapsed licenses upon payment of a $50 delinquent fee. Let's dive into the steps you need to follow to get back on track.
Steps to Renew Your Lapsed License
- Log into the License Portal: Visit the License Portal and enter your registered email and password. If you've forgotten your password, use the "Forgot Password" feature to receive a temporary password via email.
- Select "Lapsed License Renewal": Once logged in, click on the "Lapsed License Renewal" icon and press "Start" to proceed through the renewal steps.
- Ensure Eligibility: Your license must be in "Lapsed" status for renewal. If it is "Expired," you must apply as a new applicant.
Fees and Important Dates
The current two-year reinstatement fees are as follows:
- Occupational Therapists (OTs): $290 ($240 renewal fee + $50 late fee), valid through May 31, 2026.
- Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs): $210 ($160 renewal fee + $50 late fee), valid through May 31, 2026.
Starting March 1, 2025, a one-year fee option will be available:
- OTs: $170 ($120 renewal fee + $50 late fee)
- OTAs: $130 ($80 renewal fee + $50 late fee)
Continuing Education Requirements
To reinstate your license, you must fulfill certain continuing education (CE) requirements:
- Cultural Competency: Complete 1 hour on cultural competency. You can choose from a list of courses provided by the Oregon Board.
- Pain Management Module: Complete the free OHA Pain Management Module. Access it here.
The Oregon CE Rule mandates 30 points of CE within the last two years or a current NBCOT certification. The cultural competency and pain management courses count toward these 30 points.
Additional Requirements
If you have been unlicensed for over three years, you must complete a Re-Entry program or retake the NBCOT examination. Additionally, OTAs must file their OT Supervisor with the Board before starting work. Ensure all state verifications are sent to the Oregon Board if you have worked in other states.
Final Steps
Once you've submitted your renewal application, fee, and all required documents, the Board will process your renewal. You will receive an email confirmation once your license is renewed. You can verify your license status using the Online License Search.
For more information, please follow this link.
