The compact map shows which states are compact members: https://otcompact.gov/compact-map/. If your state has not yet introduced the compact, introducing it is the first step. See below for how to help with this process.  OTC member states are working with the OTC administrators to launch applications.  Each member state will launch OTC applications on their own timeline; they are all at unique points in the process.  The OTC is supporting the member states to ensure a successful launch when each state is ready.  The OTC administrators do not set the timeline for when a state launches applications.  That is determined by each individual member state licensing board.

No. Although your state passing the Compact is an important step, it does not automatically approve your license for use in other states. Practitioners must apply for the privilege to practice in each state through the Compact when states open their OTC applications. The application link will be on the OTC’s website homepage:  www.otcompact.gov. OTC member state licensing boards determine when they will open applications.  That is not determined by OTC administrators.

Because the legislative process is unpredictable, it is impossible to guarantee a Compact bill will be introduced or enacted in a particular state. When bills are introduced or enacted, the website map is updated promptly, so you may refer to that page for up-to-date information.

AOTA is working in collaboration with state occupational therapy associations to advocate for the OT compact in each state. If you would like to advocate for the Compact in your state, please contact your state occupational therapy association to get involved in the state association’s advocacy efforts.

No. For you to obtain a privilege to practice (PtP) through the Compact, your home state and the state(s) in which you want to practice must be members of the OT Compact. If this is not the case, the only way for you to practice in a non-member state is by obtaining a license through that state’s regular licensing process.

You are able to participate in the Compact if you received a license under previous licensing requirements or you were grandfathered into the current program.  If you have never had a criminal background check (CBC), you must complete that through your home state licensing board.  “Home state” is defined as the practitioner’s primary state of residence where s/he is licensed, and it is a member of the OTC.

Each member state will open OTC applications on their own timeline when they are ready.  The OTC administrators do not determine when a state will launch applications. Check states’ statuses here.  If you want an update regarding state statuses, you need to contact the state licensing boards.

The OTC fee is $75 per privilege to practice (PtP).  Additionally, each state has (or will) set a fee.  Check state fees here.  The OTCC fee and the state fee are paid at the same time at the end of the OTC application process.

Once your home state launches applications and it determines that you are eligible for the OT, then you can click here to apply for your OTC PtP in states that are accepting applications.  “Home state” is defined as the practitioner’s primary state of residence where s/he is licensed, and it is a member of the OTC.

A license refers to the standard license granted by your home state. A privilege to practice (PtP) is granted by your home state licensing board and allows you to practice in other Compact member states.  An OTC privilege to practice is equivalent to a state license to practice.  “Home state” is defined as the practitioner’s primary state of residence where s/he is licensed, and it is a member of the OTC.

Practitioners only need to complete CEUs for their home state. Practitioners also need to complete jurisprudence examinations in each state where they want to apply for a privilege to practice.  Click here to find out if a state has a jurisprudence requirement.

Yes. The OT practitioner’s home state will not consider the practitioner eligible to participate in the OTC until an FBI CBC is completed. Some states already perform FBI CBCs. Other states are in the process of implementing this requirement. Contact your home state licensing board to learn how to complete the criminal background check.

“Home state” is defined as the practitioner’s primary state of residence where s/he is licensed, and it is a member of the OTC.