2026 How to Become an Occupational Therapist in Idaho

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Idaho offers promising opportunities for occupational therapists, with employment expected to grow by 22% over the next decade—much faster than the national average. This demand reflects the state's expanding healthcare needs and aging population, making it a rewarding career choice. Occupational therapists in Idaho enjoy competitive salaries and the chance to make a significant impact on patients’ lives through rehabilitation and skill development.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, guides aspiring occupational therapists through each step of licensure, education, and certification in Idaho. It provides practical, up-to-date information to help readers confidently pursue their professional goals in this vital healthcare field.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Idaho

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

Formal education is the cornerstone for preparing occupational therapists to meet the diverse physical, emotional, and developmental challenges their patients face. This education builds the foundation of critical thinking and hands-on skills essential for delivering compassionate, evidence-based care.

Now, let's explore the key educational milestones required for occupational therapy education requirements Idaho.

• Bachelor's Degree Foundation: Aspiring occupational therapists begin by earning a bachelor’s degree, which does not require a specific major but should include prerequisite courses relevant to occupational therapy. Maintaining a competitive GPA is important, as it strengthens admission prospects for graduate programs.
• ACOTE Accredited Occupational Therapy Programs: Candidates must then complete a graduate-level program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). These programs grant master’s or doctoral degrees and combine rigorous classroom instruction with practical labs to develop clinical expertise.
• Supervised Fieldwork Experience: Integral to training is hands-on fieldwork under professional supervision, often outside regular hours or locations. This supervised practice allows students to apply therapeutic techniques across various healthcare settings, gaining essential real-world experience before licensure.
• Continuing Professional Development: After licensure, occupational therapists in Idaho must undertake annual continuing education to stay current with therapeutic advances and best practices. This ongoing professional growth ensures lifelong competence and quality care.

If you’re considering related healthcare roles, you may want to learn about the medical records coder salary, which reflects the importance of accurate documentation and coding in patient care teams.

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

Obtaining an Idaho occupational therapy license is a vital milestone to establish your professional credibility and legally practice within the state. This credential assures employers, clients, and regulatory bodies that you meet the state’s rigorous standards for competency and ethics.

Navigating how to apply for occupational therapist license in Idaho requires following several important steps, each designed to prepare you thoroughly for a successful career.

Here are the essential steps to meet Idaho occupational therapy license requirements:

• Complete an Accredited Degree: You must graduate from an occupational therapy program accredited by ACOTE or AOTA. Idaho offers one ACOTE-accredited program at Idaho State University, but graduates from other accredited programs can also apply, whether at the bachelor’s or master’s level for therapists or an associate’s degree for assistants.
• Fulfill Supervised Fieldwork: Six months of supervised fieldwork under a licensed occupational therapist is required for therapists, while assistants complete four months. This hands-on training develops the practical skills needed to excel in clinical settings.
• Pass the NBCOT Certification Exam: Success on the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam is mandatory. Achieving a passing score validates your knowledge and readiness to practice, serving as a national benchmark before state licensure.
• Complete a Criminal Background Check: To protect public safety, Idaho requires all applicants to undergo a background check, ensuring integrity and ethical practice in the profession.
• Submit Your State License Application: Carefully prepare your application to the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses, including proof of education, NBCOT certification, and previous licenses if applicable. Fees vary by role, and thoroughness avoids delays.
• Consider Temporary or Limited Permits: If you’re waiting on exam results or full licensure, Idaho offers permits that allow supervised practice for a small additional fee, helping you gain valuable experience without pausing your career progress.
• Pay Initial Licensing Fees: Once approved, final fees activate your license—$80 for occupational therapists and $60 for assistants—completing the official process.

For those curious about related certifications, understanding the cpc vs cbcs certification key similarities can further enhance your healthcare career knowledge.

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

Maintaining a valid occupational therapy license is essential for upholding professional integrity and ensuring accountability in practice. Regular license renewal confirms that therapists remain knowledgeable about advancements in treatment methods and comply with regulatory standards set by Idaho’s licensing board. This ongoing process protects not only the therapist’s credibility but also the safety and well-being of the clients they serve.

In Idaho, occupational therapists renew their licenses every two years under a biennial renewal system implemented starting in 2025. The renewal period runs from January 1 of the first year through December 31 of the following year. Therapists must complete a total of 20 hours of continuing education during this cycle to attest to their professional development.

Applications for renewal can be submitted up to 60 days before the license expires, providing ample time to prepare. Should a license lapse, reinstatement requires paying both the reinstatement and the two-year renewal fees, with the subsequent license expiring on the licensee’s next birthday. This structured schedule helps ensure therapists sustain their eligibility to practice while staying up to date with shifting state and industry requirements.

When I spoke with an occupational therapist from Idaho who graduated from a local university, he reflected on his first biennial renewal experience. “Initially, the switch from annual to biennial renewal felt a bit daunting,” he said. “Tracking 20 hours over two years required more organization than before, but it also gave me flexibility to choose courses that really matched my clinical interests without the pressure of rushing every year.”

He added that the 60-day early renewal window was particularly helpful in managing his busy schedule, allowing him to avoid last-minute stress. He appreciated how the renewal process reinforced his commitment to lifelong learning while streamlining administrative tasks, making it a positive and manageable part of his professional journey.

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

Continuing education plays a vital role for occupational therapists in Idaho, helping them maintain professional competence and meet state standards. Staying current with evolving therapeutic techniques and regulations ensures OTs provide the best care possible, fostering growth in both skills and knowledge throughout their careers.

• Number of Hours Required: Idaho requires occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants to complete ten (10) hours of germane continuing education during each renewal cycle. This helps professionals stay abreast of new developments and best practices in occupational therapy.
• Acceptable Course Topics or Formats: Continuing education must be relevant to occupational therapy practice. Acceptable formats include CE coursework, in-service training, professional conferences, workshops, interactive online courses, and evidence-based competency assessments.
• Reporting and Documentation Procedures: Practitioners must keep documentation of completed CE activities for four years, including details like the licensee's name, date, provider, course title, description, and contact hours. During renewal, therapists attest to meeting requirements, with documentation requested only if audited.
• Additional Requirements for OTAs: Occupational therapy assistants in Idaho are held to the same continuing education standards as occupational therapists, with no extra hours or special courses mandated.
• Licensure Cycle Changes: Beginning in 2025, Idaho will shift to a two-year licensure renewal cycle based on birth year, but this change does not alter the annual continuing education requirement or its importance in the license renewal process.

If you're exploring how continuing education fits into broader professional development, consider opportunities like a 4-week medical coding course that can complement your skill set and enhance career prospects.

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

The total cost of becoming an occupational therapist in Idaho varies depending on the educational path, exam fees, and licensing costs involved. Knowing these expenses upfront allows you to prepare a solid financial plan and focus on your journey with confidence.

• Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) Tuition and Fees: Completing a Master’s degree is the most common route. For example, tuition and associated fees can total around $49,518 for residents and over $102,000 for non-residents at some Idaho institutions. Keep in mind, this estimate does not include living expenses, books, or other personal costs.
• Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program Costs: If you choose the OTA path, an associate degree typically costs between $12,650 and $23,779 depending on the college. This range usually covers tuition, fees, and textbooks, providing an accessible alternative with a quicker entry into the field.
• NBCOT Exam Fees: Passing the national certification exam is a critical step that generally costs about $555. Budgeting for this fee ensures you avoid surprises during licensure preparation.
• State Licensure Fees: After certification, Idaho requires a $80 license application fee, plus $40 for renewal every few years. Temporary permits can be obtained for $25 if you need to start working sooner.
• Additional Expenses: Don’t overlook background checks, CPR certification, and professional memberships. These can add approximately $150 over two years, and organizations like the Idaho Occupational Therapy Association offer student memberships around $40 annually to help you connect and grow professionally.

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

Funding your occupational therapy education in Idaho can feel overwhelming, but there are many financial aid opportunities tailored to help you succeed. By tapping into these resources, you can reduce the financial burden and focus on gaining the skills needed to become a licensed occupational therapist.

Here are key financial aid options commonly available to students like you.

• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Completing the FAFSA is essential to access federal grants, loans, and work-study programs that support both undergraduate and graduate OT students nationwide. These funds help lower your out-of-pocket costs and provide flexible ways to finance your education.
• Idaho State Grants and Programs: Programs like Idaho LAUNCH offer substantial tuition support—up to 80% coverage for eligible Idaho high school graduates or GED holders pursuing high-demand careers, potentially including occupational therapy. Check with your school’s financial aid office to confirm your eligibility.
• University-Based Scholarships: Idaho institutions with OT programs award scholarships recognizing academic achievement and leadership, such as the Arthur "AJ" P. Lloyd, Jr. Endowment Scholarship. These competitive awards can provide crucial financial support during your studies.
• WICHE Professional Student Exchange Program: This program helps Idaho residents attend out-of-state OT programs not offered locally, with reduced tuition rates. It’s a valuable option if you’re seeking specialized training beyond Idaho’s available programs.
• Professional and Association Scholarships: National and state occupational therapy organizations offer scholarships that can range widely in amount. Applying to groups like the American Occupational Therapy Foundation may unlock funding and valuable professional connections.
• Private and External Scholarships: Various nonprofits and foundations award scholarships based on merit, need, or community involvement. Regularly searching scholarship databases and networking can uncover these helpful opportunities.
• Student Loans: Federal Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS Loans offer graduate students flexible financing options to cover tuition and living expenses. While loans must be repaid, they provide immediate access to necessary funds.
• Work-Study and Part-Time Jobs: Federal work-study programs or part-time employment can supplement your income, but it’s wise to balance work commitments carefully given OT program demands.

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

Out-of-state occupational therapists can indeed practice in Idaho, but they must first obtain an Idaho state occupational therapy license. The process requires submitting a notarized application, proof of graduation from an ACOTE-accredited program, passing NBCOT exam scores, and two professional recommendations.

Applicants may also need to complete a Board-approved jurisprudence exam, fingerprinting, and background checks. Idaho offers a temporary license for therapists licensed in other jurisdictions who meet endorsement criteria, allowing them to practice while their full application is reviewed.

Additionally, Idaho participates in the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, which eases mobility for therapists licensed in other Compact states. This offers expedited authorization but still requires credential verification and good standing in the home state. All applicants must meet Idaho’s specific standards to protect public safety and ensure high-quality care.

I recently spoke with an occupational therapist from Idaho who graduated from a local school about her perspective on this. She recalled how out-of-state colleagues often found navigating the endorsement process challenging but rewarding. “They appreciate the temporary license, which eases the wait and lets them start working sooner,” she shared.

She also noted that while the Compact helps streamline things, Idaho’s thorough verification process ensures consistent standards, which ultimately benefits both practitioners and patients. Her experience shows the balance Idaho maintains between welcoming professionals and upholding quality care.

What additional certifications can complement your occupational therapy career in Idaho?

Supplementary credentials can significantly broaden your professional expertise and improve interprofessional collaborations within Idaho’s evolving healthcare landscape. Pursuing targeted certifications beyond basic licensure may differentiate your practice and open doors to niche opportunities in patient care. For example, acquiring specialized training such as how to become a caregiver in Idaho can offer complementary insights and practical skills, enhancing your effectiveness in addressing diverse client needs. Evaluating such certifications can diversify your qualifications and support long-term career advancement without overlapping previously detailed licensure or educational pathways.

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

To excel as an occupational therapist in Idaho, developing a strong set of skills is vital for helping clients regain independence, improving their quality of life, and effectively supporting interdisciplinary healthcare teams. These competencies enable therapists to address complex physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges while complying with state regulations.

Here are the essential skills that contribute to success in this rewarding field.

• Clinical Reasoning and Problem-Solving: The ability to assess diverse client needs and create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans is crucial for meaningful progress and overcoming barriers.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Clear communication fosters trust with clients and collaboration with families and healthcare professionals, essential in multidisciplinary environments.
• Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Understanding emotional challenges and responding sensitively builds rapport and encourages client engagement, especially in rural and underserved areas.
• Technical Competence and Continuing Education: Mastery of therapeutic techniques and dedication to ongoing learning ensure safe, effective care and compliance with Idaho’s licensure requirements.
• Organization and Documentation Skills: Accurate record-keeping supports regulatory compliance and efficient caseload management, vital for quality care and license renewal.

What specializations are available for occupational therapists in Idaho?

Specializing within occupational therapy allows practitioners in Idaho to deepen their expertise in targeted populations, conditions, or practice settings. This focused knowledge not only amplifies their impact on clients but also broadens their career opportunities across the state’s diverse healthcare landscape.

Below are several common occupational therapy specializations that can guide your professional path in Idaho.

• Pediatrics: Pediatric occupational therapists support infants, children, and adolescents facing developmental, physical, or sensory challenges. They help young clients build essential life skills and improve participation in school and play, often working in schools, early intervention programs, and pediatric clinics.
• Geriatrics: Specializing in geriatrics, therapists assist older adults dealing with conditions like dementia or recovery after surgery. Their goal is to help maintain independence and adapt living environments, commonly working in nursing homes, rehab centers, and home health agencies.
• Mental Health: Mental health OTs address psychiatric conditions and emotional challenges by using therapeutic activities to boost coping skills and daily functioning. They find roles in psychiatric hospitals, community centers, and residential facilities, reflecting growing recognition of this important field.
• Hand Therapy: Focused on the rehabilitation of the hand and arm after injury or surgery, hand therapy specialists use exercises and splinting to restore function. They generally practice in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or orthopedic centers, often earning additional certification for expertise.
• Rehabilitation: This specialization involves aiding clients recovering from strokes or spinal injuries to regain independence in daily activities. Rehabilitation OTs are typically employed in acute care hospitals, inpatient units, and outpatient clinics, playing a critical role in post-trauma recovery.

As you explore occupational therapy specializations in Idaho, consider how these paths align with your passions and the state’s healthcare needs. For those weighing educational routes, the bachelors degree vs medical billing and coding certificate comparison provides insights into different academic options that may influence your career trajectory.

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

Salaries for occupational therapists in Idaho are influenced by several important factors including experience level, type of employer, and geographic location. These elements shape the average occupational therapist salary in Idaho and help define career growth and financial goals.

Below are key factors that impact occupational therapist pay rates Idaho professionals can expect.

• Years of Experience: Entry-level occupational therapists usually earn less, starting around $61,790 annually. As therapists gain clinical experience and possibly pursue advanced certifications, salaries can rise significantly, with seasoned professionals earning up to $100,640 or more.
• Type of Employer: Employment setting plays a critical role. Those working in hospitals or private clinics often receive higher pay compared to therapists in schools or nonprofit organizations, reflecting the differing organizational structures and funding sources.
• Geographic Location Within Idaho: Wages tend to be higher in urban areas where demand is greater. For example, occupational therapists in Idaho Falls may earn slightly different hourly wages than the statewide average of about $42.67 to $48 per hour.
• Education and Specialization: Advanced degrees and specialized certifications in fields like pediatrics or geriatrics can open doors to higher salaries and leadership roles.
• Employment Status: Full-time occupational therapists generally report higher annual earnings compared to part-time or PRN workers, even when hourly rates are competitive due to the total hours worked.
• Facility Setting and Cost of Living: Acute care and outpatient clinics usually offer better pay reflecting the complex patient needs, while regional cost of living adjustments also influence salary competitiveness.

If you’re also interested in building foundational skills related to healthcare administration, consider exploring medical billing and coding classes online financial aid opportunities to complement your occupational therapy career.

What Do Occupational Therapists in Idaho Say About Their Career?

References:

• What the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact Means for OTs | Vivian Community Hub https://www.vivian.com/community/allied-health/what-the-occupational-therapy-licensure-compact-means-for-ots/
• Financial Aid and Scholarships | Idaho State University https://www.isu.edu/hpac/resources/financial-aid-and-scholarships/
• Occupational Therapy | Idaho State University Academic Catalog https://coursecat.isu.edu/undergraduate/college-of-health/occupational-therapy/
• Idaho OT License – Uniti Med https://unitimed.com/idaho-ot-license/
• Curriculum - Specializations | The College of Idaho https://www.collegeofidaho.edu/academic-programs/undergraduate/curriculum/specializations
• Welcome to Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses https://dopl.idaho.gov/
• Substantially Equivalent States | Washington State Department of Health https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/occupational-therapist-and-occupational-therapy-assistant/substantially-equivalent-states
• Occupational Therapists - Next Steps Idaho https://nextsteps.idaho.gov/browse-careers/29-1122.00
• Navigating Idaho\'s Occupational Therapy Licensing: Your Quick and Easy Guide || TinyEYE Therapy Services https://tinyeye.com/blog/navigating-idahos-occupational-therapy-licensing-your-quick-and-easy-guide.php
• Idaho Therapy State Boards | AMN Healthcare https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/resources/state-boards/therapy/idaho/

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Idaho