Occupational Therapist License in California
Quick Answer
To get an OT license in California, submit an application ($50), pay the fingerprint fee ($49), and pay the prorated initial license fee (based on $270 biennial renewal). Expedited processing and temporary licenses are available for military and spouses.
- Exam
- NBCOT
- Total Cost
- $369 (est.)
- Timeline
- 3-6 months
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Occupational Therapist license in California
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $50
- Renewal Fee
- $270
- Total Estimated Cost
- $369
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Occupational Therapist license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.
Occupational Therapist Salary in California
Entry Level
$82,090
Median
$119,470
Experienced
$154,800
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Occupational Therapist in California.
- 1
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$50.
- 2
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 3-6 months.
Occupational Therapist Licensing in California: What to Know
California requires a $50 application fee and a $49 fingerprint fee (if not using livescan). The initial license fee is prorated based on the $270 biennial renewal fee. The California Board of Occupational Therapy under the Department of Consumer Affairs oversees licensing. Expedited processing and a temporary license are available for military members and spouses. Applications are reviewed in the order received.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Occupational Therapist license cost in California?
- The estimated total cost is $369, including application fees, and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Occupational Therapist license in California?
- The process typically takes 3-6 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Occupational Therapist license in California?
- You need to pass the NBCOT. N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Occupational Therapist requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.