2026 How to Become an Occupational Therapist in Georgia

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Occupational therapy is a growing profession in Georgia, with employment projected to increase by over 20% through 2030, driven by demand in healthcare and rehabilitation services. The state offers competitive salaries and diverse opportunities across hospitals, schools, and private practices.

Pursuing this career provides stability and the chance to impact patient lives positively. Understanding the specific licensure and education requirements in Georgia can streamline the path to becoming a licensed occupational therapist.

This article guides prospective occupational therapists through Georgia’s credentialing process step-by-step. Prepared by career planning experts, it delivers reliable, up-to-date information to help readers make informed decisions and successfully launch their careers in occupational therapy within the state.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Georgia

What are the education requirements to become an occupational therapist in Georgia?

Formal education is critical for occupational therapists to effectively address the physical, emotional, and developmental challenges their patients face. This structured training provides the scientific foundation, clinical reasoning, and practical skills necessary for delivering evidence-based care.

Below is a clear outline of what aspiring therapists must complete to fulfill Georgia occupational therapy degree requirements.

• Bachelor’s Degree Prerequisite: Before starting a graduate program, candidates must earn a bachelor’s degree or complete at least 90 credit hours of undergraduate coursework from an accredited institution. While the major can vary, schools typically require prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and statistics to prepare students for advanced study.
• Master’s or Doctoral Degree from an Accredited Program: The minimum requirement is to obtain a graduate degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Master’s programs usually take about two years, whereas entry-level doctoral programs, which are becoming more common in Georgia, last approximately three years and offer advanced clinical and research training.
• Supervised Fieldwork Experience: All accredited programs require completion of a minimum of 24 weeks of Level II fieldwork, which immerses students in hands-on clinical settings. Doctoral candidates also undertake a 14-week capstone project focusing on leadership, research, or advanced practice areas to further hone their skills.
• Eligibility for National Certification: Graduates must qualify to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. Passing this exam is essential for state licensure and legal practice as an occupational therapist in Georgia.

For those researching career options and salaries tied to healthcare education pathways, exploring the medical coder salary may offer useful comparisons and insights.

How do you get a state license to practice occupational therapy in Georgia?

Obtaining a Georgia occupational therapy license is essential for ensuring professional credibility and meeting the legal requirements to practice in the state. This process not only verifies that you have met established educational and clinical standards but also safeguards public health.

Here’s a practical overview of the main steps involved in how to apply for an occupational therapy license in Georgia.

• Complete an Accredited Occupational Therapy Education Program: You must graduate from an ACOTE-accredited program with the appropriate degree—Bachelor’s or Master’s for Registered Occupational Therapists or an Associate’s degree for Occupational Therapy Assistants. Completing this education establishes the foundation of your professional knowledge.
• Fulfill Required Clinical Fieldwork: Practical experience is critical. Registered Occupational Therapists are required to complete at least 24 weeks of supervised clinical fieldwork, while Occupational Therapy Assistants need 16 weeks. This hands-on training develops essential skills under the guidance of licensed professionals.
• Pass the NBCOT Certification Exam: Success on the national exam is mandatory. The Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) exam is for therapists, and the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) exam is for assistants. The exam validates your readiness to provide competent care.
• Submit Your State Licensure Application: You must apply formally with the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy. This includes sending official transcripts, NBCOT certification verification, and three professional references, with at least two from licensed Occupational Therapists. Fees apply based on your role.
• Complete a Criminal Background Check: A background check is required to ensure ethical standards are maintained and to protect vulnerable populations served by occupational therapists.

Following these steps carefully will support a smoother path to licensure and entry into Georgia’s workforce. For an idea about the work environment of medical billers and coders and similar professions, researching related healthcare roles may offer additional perspective.

How often do you need to renew an OT license in Georgia?

License renewal is a key process in maintaining high professional standards among occupational therapists in Georgia. It ensures that practitioners remain accountable and stay current with evolving practices and regulations essential for delivering quality care. By renewing licenses regularly, occupational therapists demonstrate their commitment to upholding ethical and effective treatment within the state’s healthcare system.

In Georgia, occupational therapists and occupational therapist assistants must renew their licenses every two years. Renewal periods typically end on March 31 of even-numbered years, making it crucial to meet deadlines to avoid possible penalties. Although there are no explicitly stated grace periods, submitting renewal applications and completing continuing education requirements ahead of time prevents interruptions in licensure.

This biennial renewal schedule helps ensure that therapists maintain their eligibility to practice and remain informed about professional developments and state regulations affecting occupational therapy.

One occupational therapist from Georgia, who graduated locally, shared his experience with the renewal process. He described how staying ahead of the March 31 deadline each even year helped him manage the sometimes stressful requirements smoothly. “Tracking my continuing education hours throughout the two years was essential,” he said. He found balancing the mandatory ethics courses and hands-on patient care hours challenging but rewarding as it deepened his professional knowledge. Although the process felt demanding at times, he appreciated how the steady cycle kept him engaged and on track professionally, and he emphasized that being proactive made renewal much less stressful overall.

What continuing education is required for OT license renewal in Georgia?

Continuing education is a vital component for occupational therapists to maintain professional competence and comply with Georgia OT license renewal requirements. Staying current with the latest therapeutic techniques and legal standards ensures effective client care and supports growth within the healthcare field.

For those navigating occupational therapy continuing education Georgia mandates, understanding the specific steps and hour requirements is key to seamless license renewal.

• Required Hours for License Renewal: Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants in Georgia must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. This ensures practitioners continually update their knowledge and skills in alignment with evolving clinical practices and state regulations.
• Direct Patient Care Hours: At least 12 of the 24 required hours must focus on direct patient care topics. These hours need to be earned through live formats such as in-person seminars or real-time webinars to emphasize hands-on clinical proficiency.
• Ethics Education: A minimum of 2 hours of continuing education must address occupational therapy ethics each renewal period, reinforcing professional integrity and decision-making practices essential to client trust and accountability.
• General Continuing Education: The remaining 10 hours may cover a broader range of occupational therapy subjects, including administration, supervision, or research, and can be completed through self-paced online courses or other approved formats.
• Special Course Requirements: Georgia requires a 2-hour course on state OT laws and rules and a 1-hour course on human trafficking awareness to be completed within the continuing education hours. The human trafficking course, due by January 1, 2021, addresses important legal and social issues within the profession.
• Acceptable Course Formats: CE can be obtained through various formats such as seminars, webinars, workshops, college courses, and approved online modules. Note that direct patient care hours must come from live interactions, not self-study or recorded lectures.
• Documentation and Reporting: Practitioners must keep records of continuing education activities, including certificates and proof of attendance, for four years in case of board audits. Documentation should detail course content, provider, and completion dates.
• Occupational Therapy Assistants Requirements: OTAs must meet the same continuing education requirements as OTs, completing 24 hours biennially with similar hour distributions across clinical, ethics, and general topics to maintain consistent professional standards.

For those interested in expanding related skills, a recommended option is the 4 week medical coding course, which can complement occupational therapy knowledge with administrative competencies valuable in clinical settings.

How much does it cost to become an occupational therapist in Georgia?

The total cost of becoming an occupational therapist in Georgia varies depending on factors like the chosen program, residency status, and additional fees for exams and licensing. Knowing each expense helps you organize your budget carefully and avoid surprises along the way.

• Tuition and Fees for an Accredited OT Program: Tuition costs differ widely, from around $35,700 for in-state master’s programs to over $140,000 for private doctorate programs. Fees and supplies add to these figures, so check with your school for specific estimates.
• NBCOT Exam Fee: Budget $555 for the national certification exam required after graduation. This fee is a fixed cost for anyone seeking licensure.
• State Licensure Application Fees: Applying for a Georgia OT license costs $60, with an optional temporary permit available for $10 if you need to practice before passing the exam.
• Background Checks and Health Screenings: Expect to pay between $50 and $150 for mandatory screenings, essential for both admission and licensing in Georgia.
• Professional Memberships: Optional but beneficial, memberships like the American Occupational Therapy Association’s student membership cost about $78 annually and offer useful resources and networking opportunities.
• Application Fees: Using the Occupational Therapist Centralized Application Service (OTCAS) means a $164 fee for the first program and $71 for each additional program applied to.
• Additional Living Expenses: Travel, housing, and supplies during fieldwork or lab intensives can add thousands to your total cost depending on program demands and location.

What financial aid options are available for OT students in Georgia?

Financing an occupational therapy education in Georgia can be challenging due to the specialized training and program costs involved. Financial aid plays a key role in helping students manage expenses ranging from assistant-level credentials to advanced graduate degrees. Below are the main aid options available for occupational therapy students in Georgia to consider during their planning.

• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Completing the FAFSA is essential for accessing federal grants, work-study opportunities, and student loans. Eligibility is determined through a need-based formula, making this a foundational step for any student seeking financial support.
• American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded annually to students in accredited OT programs, typically ranging from $150 to $5,000. Georgia students apply through one application that automatically enters them for all available awards, providing broad access to funding.
• AOTA’s E.K. Wise Scholarship: Targeted at OT and OTA students from diverse backgrounds, this scholarship awards $2,500 to three recipients each year. Applicants must be AOTA members and demonstrate leadership and community service.
• Lands Banks Memorial Scholarship: Offering $2,000 to OTA students who have completed at least one year and attend accredited programs, this scholarship prioritizes students from underrepresented groups committed to community involvement.
• Georgia-Specific Professional Scholarships: State organizations like the Georgia Occupational Therapy Association provide scholarships dedicated to Georgia residents or students attending state programs, including the Linda Stephens Scholarship.
• University-Based Aid: Many Georgia institutions, such as Augusta University, offer scholarships, grants, and tuition payment plans. Working with financial aid offices helps students maximize available federal, state, and private funding sources.

Can out-of-state occupational therapists work in Georgia?

Out-of-state occupational therapists can work in Georgia, but they must obtain a Georgia license before practicing. The state does not offer automatic reciprocity, so applicants need to apply directly to the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy.

This process involves submitting verified education records, proof of NBCOT certification, and licensure verification from other states where they are licensed. Applicants must also pay application fees and comply with state-specific requirements such as supervised fieldwork documentation.

Georgia is part of the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, which will allow easier interstate practice once fully implemented. For now, out-of-state therapists must complete the traditional licensing pathway. The compact requires a home-state license in good standing and passing a criminal background check. Until then, out-of-state therapists should prepare for a thorough application process that includes all necessary verifications and fees.

When I spoke with an occupational therapist from Georgia who graduated locally, she shared that she saw firsthand how challenging it was for colleagues moving into the state. "While I didn't have to navigate the out-of-state process, I know that the paperwork and waiting periods can be frustrating," she said. She appreciated Georgia’s efforts to streamline licensing yet noted, “It requires patience and careful attention to detail to ensure all documents and verifications are in order. But once licensed, the support network here makes it rewarding to practice.” Her experience highlights both the hurdles and the promise of working as an occupational therapist in Georgia.

What additional certifications can boost your occupational therapy career in Georgia?

Pursuing supplementary certifications can broaden your clinical expertise and enhance versatility in Georgia’s competitive healthcare landscape. Diversifying your qualifications may lead to new responsibilities and a clearer path to professional advancement. For instance, exploring interdisciplinary training not only complements therapeutic skills but also aligns with evolving patient care models. Consider reviewing guidelines on how to become a caregiver in Georgia to add complementary credentials that support holistic patient care.

What skills do you need to be a successful occupational therapist in Georgia?

To succeed as an occupational therapist in Georgia, developing a well-rounded skill set is essential. These skills enable therapists to help clients regain independence, improve their quality of life, and work effectively within healthcare teams.

Given Georgia’s licensure requirements and growing demand for occupational therapy services, mastering these competencies is a practical step toward a rewarding career. Below are key skills vital for success in this field.

• Clinical Competence and Technical Proficiency: Expertise in evidence-based techniques and thorough client assessments allows therapists to design effective interventions. In Georgia, additional certification in physical agent modalities is required, ensuring advanced therapeutic skills.
• Effective Communication: Clear verbal and written communication builds trust with clients and facilitates collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, which is prioritized in Georgia’s occupational therapy programs.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The ability to analyze complex cases and adapt interventions to individual needs ensures safe and personalized client care.
• Empathy and Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding diverse backgrounds fosters trust and addresses health disparities in Georgia’s growing multicultural population.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Working smoothly with physicians, nurses, and other professionals promotes coordinated care and improved outcomes.

What specializations are available for occupational therapists in Georgia?

Specializing allows occupational therapists in Georgia to hone their skills toward specific populations, conditions, or practice settings, which enhances their career paths and impact on clients’ lives. Focusing on a niche area also opens doors to advanced certifications and tailored job opportunities, making it a practical choice for growth.

Below are several common occupational therapy specializations in Georgia, along with their main focus areas and typical workplaces.

• Pediatrics: Pediatric occupational therapists help children with developmental, physical, or sensory processing challenges develop essential life and school skills. They usually work in schools, early intervention programs, outpatient clinics, and pediatric hospitals.
• Geriatrics: These therapists support older adults coping with age-related changes by promoting independence, fall prevention, and home safety adaptations. Common workplaces include skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies, rehabilitation centers, and community programs serving seniors.
• Mental Health: Occupational therapists in this field aid individuals facing psychiatric, substance use, or emotional issues by improving coping and social participation through therapeutic activities. They typically work in psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, and residential treatment facilities.
• Hand Therapy: Specialists rehabilitating hand and upper extremity injuries, such as fractures or tendon problems, collaborate with surgeons and work mainly in outpatient clinics, orthopedic centers, or hospitals.
• Rehabilitation: Focused on recovery from injury, surgery, or illness, rehabilitation OTs create personalized programs to restore function. Settings include acute care hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation units, and outpatient clinics.

For those weighing their options, considering additional training and certification can be a key step; for example, exploring medical coding and billing programs online may complement occupational therapy skills and career flexibility within healthcare systems.

Choosing a specialization aligned with your interests and regional demand is a practical move for advancing your Georgia occupational therapy career paths.

What is the average salary of an occupational therapist in Georgia?

Occupational therapist salary in Georgia varies based on several key factors, including experience level, employer type, and geographic location. These elements combine to shape the average salary for occupational therapist Georgia professionals, influencing earning potential throughout their careers. Below are the main factors affecting pay in the state.

• Years of Experience: This is a major driver of income. Entry-level occupational therapists in Atlanta start with average salaries around $62,694, but those with several years under their belt can expect earnings closer to $69,739. Seasoned therapists and those in advanced positions can make over $104,000 annually, reflecting the value of expertise and increased responsibilities.
• Type of Employer and Work Setting: Salaries differ significantly depending on the employer. Travel occupational therapists earn high weekly pay, averaging about $2,013 per week, which totals over $104,000 annually if working year-round. Permanent roles typically offer yearly salaries ranging from about $79,688 to $103,846, with specialty clinics or healthcare systems often providing higher compensation than schools or nonprofits.
• Geographic Location Within Georgia: Location impacts pay, with metropolitan areas like Atlanta offering average salaries around $76,760 annually. Travel therapy jobs in cities like Fayetteville and Decatur provide some of the highest weekly wages in the state. While rural areas generally pay less, they may offer incentives such as signing bonuses or housing allowances to attract therapists.

Additional credentials can further enhance salary opportunities, and those interested in healthcare fields may also explore options at medical billing and coding schools that accept fafsa.

What Do Occupational Therapists in Georgia Say About Their Career?

References:

• GA R&R - GAC - Chapter 671-3 LICENSE REQUIREMENTS https://rules.sos.state.ga.us/gac/671-3
• Occupational Therapy, O.T.D. | Georgia State University https://www.gsu.edu/program/occupational-therapy-otd/
• Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy | Georgia Secretary of State https://sos.ga.gov/georgia-state-board-occupational-therapy
• Unlocking Opportunities: How the Georgia Promise Scholarship Can Fund Speech Therapy for Your Student - Atlanta Speech Therapy https://atlspeechtherapy.com/georgia-promise-scholarship/
• 18 Occupational Therapist Skills Required for Success https://www.alliant.edu/blog/occupational-therapist-skills
• Occupational Therapy - UGA Pre-Professional Advising Office https://ppao.uga.edu/programs/allied-health/occupational-therapy/
• OT compact: What occupational therapists need to know https://comphealth.com/resources/ot-compact
• Programs: Middle Georgia State University https://www.mga.edu/health-natural-sciences/rehabilitation-science/programs.php
• Approval in Georgia - CE-Credit.com https://www.ce-credit.com/approvals/board/441/georgia-state-board-of-occupational-therapy
• OT CEU Requirements and Licensure Renewal by State https://otpotential.com/ot-continuing-education-requirements

Other Things You Should Know About How to Become an Occupational Therapist in Georgia