Delaware Occupational Therapist Licensing Guide

Delaware OT License Overview

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

How to Get a Delaware OT License by Endorsement

Delaware 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 $236 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Delaware board portal
2. Request a license verification from your current state; it is a third-party form, which you either mail to the Board office yourself or have the other state mail directly to the Board office (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 NBCOT or direct board verification. Request verification early so your application is not delayed.

Confirm the current fingerprinting and background check steps with the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation website for status updates on your application.

Delaware OT License Fees

Endorsement application: from our records; confirm with the board.

Occupational Therapy Assistants: renewal is $96 (figures above are for Occupational Therapists).

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Delaware Temporary OT License

We have not found a temporary license option on the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation's site. Confirm with the board before planning a start date.

Delaware OT License Processing Time

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

Common sources of delay:

• Board portal submission must be completed first; verification requests to prior state run concurrently but delays in prior state verification directly extend overall timeline
• Delaware requires state-specific background check completion before board review; if fingerprints are rejected or flagged, applicant must resubmit, adding 1-2 weeks
• Board review and license issuance is not concurrent; once all documents received, board processes in batches, potentially delaying issuance if application arrives near end of review cycle

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation'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.

Delaware OT Continuing Education

Delaware requires 24 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for Occupational Therapist license renewal (from our records; confirm with the board).

Delaware OT License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years — Varies each year via Delaware Division of Professional Regulation portal
• Renewal timing: Licenses expire July 31 of even-numbered years; renewed every two years via DELPROS.

Delaware Licensing Board and Resources

Delaware Division of Professional Regulation

Board Website · Application Portal · License Verification

Phone: (302) 744-4500

Email: [email protected]