Verified October 8, 2026 against the practice act, board rules and sources cited below. The board decides every application. All states
What OTs miss in Missouri
- Missouri requires Highway Patrol and FBI fingerprints with every original application and limited permit application.
- Missouri requires a jurisprudence step for OT Compact privileges, once it begins issuing them.
- Application materials should arrive within 90 days of applying.
Can I practice in Missouri on an OT Compact privilege?
Missouri has enacted the OT Compact but is not issuing privileges yet. Until it does, practicing here takes a Missouri license, and a Missouri license does not yet give you a privilege anywhere else.
- Enacted, not issuing yet
Can an OT licensed in another state get a Missouri license by endorsement?
The rules set one application path for everyone. Out-of-state OTs have the approved certifying entity confirm their certification directly to the board, have every jurisdiction ever licensed send a verification, and submit Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI fingerprints.
Citation: 20 CSR 2205-3.010, 2205-3.020
Which exams does Missouri require for a license?
Licensure is based on certification from a division-approved certifying entity whose credential requires passing a competency exam. Missouri requires a jurisprudence step for OT Compact privileges; whether it applies to a full license was not confirmed.
Does Missouri require fingerprints?
- Fingerprint background check
Does Missouri offer a temporary or limited OT license?
A limited permit is available to applicants whose certifying entity confirms they are eligible for their first available certification exam. It requires its own fingerprint check and verifications of any license ever held.
- Temporary or limited license available
Citation: 20 CSR 2205-3.030
What OTAs need to know in Missouri
The OTA practices under the OT's direct supervision, but the OT need not be on site; the OT or a designee must be available for immediate consultation, and the OTA must consult the OT before any treatment plan starts or changes. Supervision must be interactive, not just cosignature.
How often does a Missouri OT license renew?
Licenses renew every two years, and licensees attest to 24 continuing competency credits on the renewal form, prorated for anyone licensed partway through a cycle. Documentation is kept for two years after renewal.
- Renews every 2 years
- 24 CE hours per cycle
Licensing in Missouri?
For a license, we send your NBCOT score and verifications, file the application and carry the board correspondence. License by endorsement is $599 for an OT and $499 for an OTA.