Occupational Therapist License in North Carolina
Quick Answer
To get an OT license in North Carolina, complete a degree, pass the NBCOT exam, and apply to the NC Board of Occupational Therapy at ncbot.org. CE is required for renewal.
- Exam
- NBCOT
- Timeline
- 3-6 months
- Background Check
- Required
Requirements
Occupational Therapist license in North Carolina
Occupational Therapist Salary in North Carolina
Entry Level
$64,310
Median
$94,580
Experienced
$119,010
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 North Carolina.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NBCOT
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 3-6 months.
Occupational Therapist Licensing in North Carolina: What to Know
North Carolina's COS description focuses on the OT scope of practice: evaluation, treatment, and consultation for achieving independence. The NC Board of Occupational Therapy oversees licensing. A degree, third-party exam (NBCOT), and CE are required. No experience requirement or criminal record prohibitions are noted. No specific fees are listed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Occupational Therapist license in North Carolina?
- 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 North Carolina?
- You need to pass the NBCOT. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Occupational Therapist requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.