Alabama Occupational Therapist Licensing Guide

Alabama OT License Overview

Alabama has joined the OT Compact, but the state is not yet issuing or honoring compact privileges. Until Alabama begins processing privileges, travelers must obtain an Alabama-specific license through the endorsement process before practicing here.

How to Get an Alabama OT License by Endorsement

Alabama uses an online portal endorsement process for Occupational Therapists already licensed in another state. You'll need to submit your completed application along with supporting documents and the $140 application fee.

1. Submit the board's License Application online (a paper version can be mailed with the fee)
2. Request an NBCOT verification letter and license verification from each state where you hold or have held a license. The board tries to obtain them for you, and if it cannot, you must get them and pay any fees (can run concurrently)
3. Complete any state-specific requirements (background check, etc.) (can run concurrently)
4. Await board review and license issuance

License verification is handled through an NBCOT verification letter and license verification from each state where you hold or have held a license. Request verification early so your application is not delayed.

Confirm the current fingerprinting and background check steps with the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy website for status updates on your application.

Alabama OT License Fees

Occupational Therapy Assistants: renewal is $115 (figures above are for Occupational Therapists).

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Alabama Temporary OT License

We have not found a temporary license option on the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy's site. Confirm with the board before planning a start date.

Alabama OT License Processing Time

Alabama Occupational Therapist endorsement applications typically take 1-3 weeks to process.

Common sources of delay:

• Board processes applications in batches; applications submitted mid-cycle may wait 2-3 weeks before next review period
• Background check delays if fingerprints are rejected or unclear — Alabama requires state-specific background verification
• License verification from originating state can take 1-2 weeks if NBCOT is slow to respond or state board requires manual verification

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy's site. The best way to minimize your wait time is to ensure all application components — fingerprints, verification, and any required exams — are completed before or immediately after submitting your application.

Alabama OT Continuing Education

Alabama requires 30 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for Occupational Therapist license renewal.

• Occupational Therapy Assistants: 20 contact hours every 2 years (vs 30 for Occupational Therapists)

Alabama OT License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years — $140 via Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy portal
• Renewal timing: Initial licenses expire in about 1 year; after that, each renewal is for two years.

Alabama Licensing Board and Resources

Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy

Board Website · Application Portal · License Verification

Phone: (334) 353-4466

Email: [email protected]