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 Washington
- Washington requires a three-hour suicide assessment training every six years for OTs and OTAs.
- A temporary practice permit can be issued only once; an applicant who does not finish licensure cannot get another.
Can I practice in Washington on an OT Compact privilege?
Washington has enacted the OT Compact but is not issuing privileges yet. Until it does, practicing here takes a Washington license, and a Washington license does not yet give you a privilege anywhere else.
- Enacted, not issuing yet
Can an OT licensed in another state get a Washington license by endorsement?
OTs and OTAs licensed in another state, DC or a US territory can be licensed by endorsement. With two or more years in a substantially equivalent state, current licensure is the key proof. Anyone licensed less than two years, or in a state that is not equivalent, must also show a passed NBCOT exam.
- Endorsement route available
Citation: RCW 18.59.070(2); WAC 246-847-125
Which exams does Washington require for a license?
The board recognizes the NBCOT exam as the licensing exam for OTs and OTAs, at NBCOT's passing score. The rules list no state jurisprudence exam.
- NBCOT exam
- No state jurisprudence exam
Does Washington offer a temporary or limited OT license?
An OT or OTA licensed in a substantially equivalent state can get a temporary practice permit once the department receives the application, fees and direct license verification. It lasts up to 180 days or until the license issues. New graduates can instead get a 90-day limited permit while awaiting the exam.
- Temporary or limited license available
Citation: WAC 246-847-117; WAC 246-847-115; RCW 18.130.075
What OTAs need to know in Washington
A licensed OTA must be in regular, documented consultation with a Washington-licensed OT. Limited permit holders work in association with an OT who has at least a year of experience and cosigns all notes.
How often does a Washington OT license renew?
Licenses renew every two years on your birthday. Renewal requires 24 hours of continued competency, and every six years at least three of those hours must be suicide assessment training from a provider on the Department of Health's model list.
- Renews every 2 years
- 24 CE hours per cycle
Licensing in Washington?
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.