2026 How to Become an Occupational Therapist in Illinois

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Illinois stands as a fertile ground for aspiring occupational therapists, boasting over 12,000 active practitioners and a projected job growth rate of 18% through 2030, well above the national average. This surge reflects an increasing demand for rehabilitative care across diverse settings, from urban hospitals in Chicago to rural community centers. The profession not only offers stability but also the profound reward of transforming lives through personalized therapy that reconnects individuals with their daily purpose.

This article navigates the pathway to becoming an occupational therapist in Illinois with precision. Crafted by seasoned career planning experts, it distills essential steps, including education, licensure, and practical training. Readers will uncover clear, actionable guidance to confidently embark on this fulfilling healthcare journey in the Prairie State.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Illinois

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

Formal education is the foundation that shapes occupational therapists into skilled professionals capable of addressing complex physical, emotional, and developmental challenges faced by patients. In Illinois, this process is not only about gaining knowledge but also about cultivating empathy, critical thinking, and practical abilities. The path to mastering occupational therapy education in Illinois unfolds through structured academic and experiential stages designed to ensure readiness for real-world patient care.

Here is an outline of the essential Illinois occupational therapy degree requirements:

• Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Begin with a bachelor’s degree, which need not be in a specific major, though courses in biology, psychology, and anatomy often form the foundation. This stage builds a fundamental understanding essential for advanced occupational therapy education.
• Complete an Accredited Graduate Program (Master’s or Doctorate): Enrollment in a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) is mandatory. Whether pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree, students engage with rigorous coursework and clinical practice, merging theory and hands-on experience across 2–3 years, perfecting their craft.
• Fulfill Supervised Fieldwork Requirements: Practical, supervised fieldwork is a cornerstone of the education journey. Through Level I and Level II placements in hospitals and community clinics, students translate classroom learning into real patient interactions, sharpening clinical judgment and therapeutic skills.
• Graduate from an ACOTE-Accredited Program: Graduation from an accredited institution certifies that candidates meet national standards, a prerequisite for licensure and certification exams required in Illinois.
• Prepare for State Licensure and Certification: After completing education and fieldwork, passing the NBCOT exam is essential to become a licensed Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) in Illinois. Only eligible graduates can take this step, starting their professional journey.

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

Securing an Illinois occupational therapy license is the gateway to professional credibility and legal practice in the state. It’s not just a bureaucratic step but a commitment to upholding high standards of care and trust within the community. For those wondering how to apply for occupational therapist license in Illinois, the path is clear, structured, and designed to ensure the best therapists serve the public.

Here are the essential steps to obtain an occupational therapy license in Illinois:

• Complete an Accredited Occupational Therapy Program: Graduating from a program recognized by the state is mandatory. These programs equip you with deep knowledge of therapeutic methods, anatomy, and clinical skills necessary to succeed in dynamic healthcare environments.
• Pass the NBCOT Certification Examination: This national test verifies your expertise and readiness to practice safely. Passing it confirms you meet the stringent professional standards required nationally and specifically in Illinois.
• Gain Supervised Clinical Experience: Illinois demands at least six months of hands-on experience under licensed supervision. This phase transitions theory into practice, sharpening your clinical judgment and independence.
• Submit a State License Application via CORE: The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation's online platform, launched in late 2024, streamlines your application. You'll need to provide proof of education, exam results, and supervised experience here.
• Pay Required Licensing Fees: A $25 fee is necessary to process your application, covering administrative costs that keep the licensure system running efficiently.
• Complete Background Check Requirements: Ensuring safety and ethical integrity, background checks are a standard part of the approval process, confirming your fitness to practice.

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

License renewal is more than just a bureaucratic checkpoint; it’s the heartbeat that keeps professional standards alive and practitioners accountable.

For occupational therapists in Illinois, this process acts as a vital compass, ensuring they navigate the ever-changing landscapes of medical knowledge, ethical expectations, and state regulations. Staying current isn’t optional—it’s a commitment to quality care and professional integrity that safeguards both clients and therapists alike.

In Illinois, occupational therapists are tasked with renewing their licenses every two years, specifically by December 31st of odd-numbered years. This biennial rhythm encourages a steady pause for reflection and growth, requiring completion of 24 contact hours in continuing education, including a mandatory ethics course.

While the state doesn’t explicitly grant grace periods for late renewals, missing the deadline can alter certification status or lead to reinstatement fees, introducing practical consequences for delays. This structured timeline not only upholds eligibility to practice but also provides a consistent framework to embrace new evidence-based approaches and regulatory updates, blending professional responsibility with adaptability.

When I spoke with an occupational therapist from Illinois who graduated locally, he shared how the renewal cycle felt like a professional checkpoint that compelled him to pause and reevaluate his practice.

“The challenge isn’t just logging hours,” he reflected, “it’s finding relevant courses that genuinely enhance my skills and ethics, which sometimes means digging deeper than the usual options.” He admitted feeling the pressure of deadlines, but also appreciated how this process nudged him to stay intellectually curious and clinically sharp, making license renewal a meaningful ritual rather than a mere obligation.

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

Continuing education fuels the growth and expertise of occupational therapists in Illinois, ensuring they navigate the shifting currents of therapeutic advancements and state mandates with confidence.

This commitment to learning not only sharpens clinical skills but also fortifies professional integrity, which is vital in a field as dynamic as occupational therapy. With Illinois occupational therapy continuing education requirements in place, practitioners stay ahead while safeguarding quality care across the state.

• Contact Hours and Renewal Cycle: Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants must complete 24 contact hours of continuing education every two years, aligned with a biennial renewal cycle that ends on December 31 of odd-numbered years. This structured timeline keeps professionals consistently engaged with fresh knowledge and evolving practices.
• Ethics Training: Within the required hours, at least one contact hour must focus exclusively on ethics related to occupational therapy. This essential component nourishes a practitioner’s understanding of professional responsibilities and moral guidelines that maintain public trust.
• Sexual Harassment Prevention Training: A mandatory hour is devoted to sexual harassment prevention each renewal period, reflecting Illinois' dedication to fostering safe, respectful workplace environments and reinforcing accountability.
• Implicit Bias Awareness Training: Each renewal cycle also demands one contact hour devoted to implicit bias, helping therapists address unconscious prejudices that can impact the delivery of equitable occupational therapy services.
• Cultural Competency Training: Practitioners must complete at least one hour of cultural competency training every six years, promoting awareness and sensitivity to diverse client backgrounds and the nuances of equitable care.
• Dementia Care Training: For those serving adults 26 and older, a one-hour training on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias is required every six years, recognizing the specialized knowledge needed for this growing population.
• Course Formats and Flexibility: Continuing education can be earned through various approved formats, including in-person seminars, online courses, and workshops. This flexibility empowers OTs and OTAs to tailor their learning to fit busy schedules, especially with no limits on online hours, broadening access to relevant education and even resources like online medical billing and coding programs.
• Documentation and Compliance: Licensees are responsible for maintaining concrete proof of their completed continuing education, which must be presented upon request to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Keeping detailed records protects against lapses and confirms adherence to state expectations.
• Requirements for OTAs: Occupational therapy assistants follow identical continuing education requirements as occupational therapists, including all specific course mandates and total contact hours, maintaining professional parity within the Illinois licensing framework.

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

The financial puzzle of becoming an occupational therapist in Illinois unfolds through a blend of education costs, exam fees, and licensing expenses. Each step demands its own investment, but breaking down these elements reveals the full picture for those ready to dive into this rewarding profession.

• Tuition and Fees for Graduate OT Programs: Tuition is the heart of the expense, varying from about $28,000 at public universities to over $80,000 at private schools or advanced programs. This figure usually includes mandatory fees and sometimes materials, painting a big but necessary chunk of the cost.
• NBCOT Exam Fee: The gateway to certification comes with a price tag of $550 in 2025, a one-time but critical hurdle for entering the field officially.
• Illinois State Licensure Application Fee: Once certified, applying for licensure in Illinois costs $25, a relatively small yet essential fee for legal practice within the state.
• Books and Course Materials: Expect to spend anywhere between $1,200 and $5,200 on textbooks, supplies, and digital tools, depending largely on the program’s resources and format.
• Fieldwork and Clinical Placement Costs: Immersive hands-on training often comes with extra travel, housing, and living expenses around $4,000, especially if relocation is involved.
• Health Requirements and Background Checks: Physicals, immunizations, drug tests, and background screenings typically range from $250 to $500, with additional costs for fingerprinting and certifications.
• Professional Memberships and Conferences: Staying connected and informed through memberships and events can amount to roughly $300, important for career networking and growth.

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

Covering the cost of occupational therapy education in Illinois is no small feat, and financial aid serves as the crucial lifeline bridging ambition with affordability. As tuition climbs, these resources unlock access to vital schooling and clinical experience.

Here’s a rundown of key financial aids tailored for OT students navigating this path in Illinois.

• Federal Grants – Pell Grants and FSEOG target undergraduates with demonstrated financial need, offering non-repayable funds that ease tuition and living expenses when students complete the FAFSA.
• Illinois State Grants – The Monetary Award Program (MAP) provides need-based awards to eligible Illinois residents attending approved colleges, removing financial barriers without the burden of repayment.
• Federal Student Loans – Subsidized, unsubsidized, and Graduate PLUS loans offer flexible repayment and deferment options, helping students finance their education with varying eligibility based on need.
• University-Based Scholarships and Awards – Illinois institutions like UIC extend merit- and need-based scholarships, some focusing on diversity or community service, recognizing academic achievement and commitment.
• American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) Scholarships – Nationwide scholarships ranging up to $5,000 reward full-time students exhibiting academic excellence and leadership, expanding opportunities for Illinois residents as well.
• Illinois Occupational Therapy Association (ILOTA) Scholarships – Two annual awards prioritize students involved with ILOTA who demonstrate leadership and dedication to the profession within Illinois.
• Professional and Private Association Scholarships – Groups like the Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation support students maintaining a minimum GPA and expressing clear personal goals through essays.
• Healthcare and Community Organization Scholarships – The Illinois Community College System Foundation and other regional groups provide additional funding to students who meet GPA and residency criteria, fostering community-focused educational growth.
• Veterans’ Educational Benefits – Veterans or their dependents can access federal and state benefits applicable toward tuition, providing valuable financial support for those with military ties.
• Student Employment and Assistantships – On-campus jobs and graduate assistantships not only supplement income but also offer hands-on OT-related work experience while studying.

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

Out-of-state occupational therapists do have a path to practice in Illinois, but it’s not as simple as waving a license from another state. Illinois requires these therapists to apply for full state licensure through an endorsement process, verifying current licensure and NBCOT certification.

The state does not participate in the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, so there’s no shortcut to practicing across state lines with prior credentials alone. Beyond paperwork, applicants must pay a $25 fee and provide proof of education, demonstrating a commitment to Illinois’s standards before stepping into practice.

Temporary permits offer a brief window for supervised practice, but only after submitting a full licensure application. This layered approach ensures the state maintains rigorous quality control while allowing out-of-state therapists a way in.

An occupational therapist from Illinois shared, “Graduating locally made me appreciate how complex the licensing maze really is for those moving here. She recalled helping colleagues navigate “endless forms and verifications” and feeling relief once they earned that Illinois license. It’s a tough process, but it cements trust between therapist and community.”

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

In Illinois, occupational therapists serve as pivotal architects of independence, guiding individuals through physical, emotional, and cognitive labyrinths toward enriched daily living.

These professionals act as both healers and innovators, crafting customized pathways to restore autonomy and enhance quality of life. Their skill sets not only empower clients but also bolster multidisciplinary healthcare teams navigating complex care landscapes.

Below are the essential skills that form the bedrock of success for occupational therapists in Illinois:

• Communication and Active Listening Skills: Clear, compassionate dialogue is the connective tissue of therapeutic relationships, ensuring clients and families understand treatment goals and actively participate in their recovery journey.
• Clinical Reasoning and Professional Judgment: With Illinois’ direct access rule eliminating physician referrals, therapists must independently assess, diagnose, and decide when specialist intervention is necessary, demanding advanced critical thinking.
• Adaptability and Stress Management: Flexibility enables therapists to transition smoothly across diverse environments—schools, homes, clinics—while maintaining client-centered focus amidst unpredictable challenges.
• Technical Competency and Advanced Skill Development: Mastery of specialized interventions, including physical agent modalities requiring at least 14 hours of formal training, equips therapists to deliver nuanced, evidence-based care.
• Assessment and Observation Skills: Acute attention to detail allows therapists to accurately evaluate client responses and tailor interventions that address individual needs with precision.

What specializations are available for occupational therapists in Illinois?

Specializing in occupational therapy lets professionals dive deep into areas that truly ignite their passion, turning their knowledge into targeted solutions for diverse client needs. This focus not only sharpens their skills but also opens doors to unique career paths across Illinois, where demand for tailored expertise keeps evolving.

Here are some key occupational therapy specializations in Illinois that highlight this dynamic field:

• Pediatrics: A pediatric occupational therapist Illinois thrives on guiding children through developmental puzzles, helping them master skills essential for everyday life and learning. These specialists weave their expertise into schools, clinics, and early intervention programs, shaping futures one small milestone at a time.
• Geriatrics: Aging gracefully is an art supported by geriatric occupational therapists who tackle challenges like arthritis, dementia, and mobility issues. Found in rehab centers, nursing homes, and home care agencies, they champion independence and quality of life for Illinois’ growing senior population.
• Mental Health: Therapists here become navigators through psychological storms—helping clients manage depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions. Collaborating with hospitals and community organizations, they create pathways for social participation and healing in mental health care.
• Hand Therapy: These specialists possess intricate knowledge of hand and upper extremity function, aiding recovery from injuries such as tendon tears and fractures. Often partnering with orthopedic teams, they restore the hands’ ability to perform life’s delicate tasks and work demands.
• Physical Rehabilitation: Focused on regaining independence, these therapists assist those overcoming surgeries, neurological issues, or chronic illness. Their roles span hospitals and outpatient centers where they adapt environments and strategies for optimal functional recovery.

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What are the career advancement opportunities available for occupational therapists in Illinois?

Occupational therapists in Illinois can progress into roles that extend beyond direct client care by leveraging advanced certifications, leadership training, and specialized practice areas. Opportunities include assuming clinical supervision, management, or mentorship positions that bridge care delivery with organizational strategy. Engagement in research and academic settings may also pave the way to contributing to practice innovations and policy development. Additionally, pursuing complementary credentials—such as how to become a caregiver in Illinois—equips practitioners with diverse skill sets to meet evolving industry demands and enhance interdisciplinary care.

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

The average occupational therapist salary in Illinois shifts like a kaleidoscope, influenced by experience, work environment, and cityscape. These elements weave together to create a rich tapestry of earnings, where no two paths mirror exactly.

Here are key factors shaping occupational therapist pay in Illinois:

• Years of Experience: Starting out, an occupational therapist might earn just above $90,000 annually, reflecting the learning curve ahead. With time, as skills deepen and specialties emerge, salaries can climb well above $120,000, rewarding expertise and leadership roles.
• Type of Employer: Hospitals and rehabilitation centers often provide the highest wages, leveraging their resources to attract top talent. In contrast, schools or smaller clinics may offer less, though they present unique professional experiences and work-life balances.
• Geographic Location within Illinois: Urban centers like Chicago, where demand and living costs surge, tend to offer richer paychecks. Conversely, rural areas might pay less but grant autonomy and reduced competition, appealing to a different kind of professional spirit.
• Specialization and Credentials: Earning specialized certifications or advanced degrees elevates both status and salary potential by demonstrating distinct skills tailored to complex patient needs.
• Work Schedule and Employment Type: Full-time roles generally provide higher annual salaries, though part-time or consulting gigs can offer premium hourly rates and flexible hours that suit various lifestyles.

While exploring your path to becoming an occupational therapist in Illinois, consider how these salary factors align with your goals and lifestyle. If financing your education is a concern, resources like financial aid for medical billing and coding online classes might offer unexpected support during your journey.

References:

• Master of Occupational Therapy https://www.govst.edu/MOT/
• Resources https://www.ilota.org/index.php
• IDFPR | Occupational Therapy Licensure Board https://idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/boards/occtherapy.html
• AOTF > Scholarships > Available Scholarships https://www.aotf.org/Scholarships/Available-Scholarships
• Frequently Asked Questions about State Licensure | AOTA https://www.aota.org/career/state-licensure/frequently-asked-questions
• Occupational Therapy Licensure Guide - Trusted Health https://www.trustedhealth.com/allied-career-guide/occupational-therapy/licensure-guide
• Checklist for Admitted Students | College of Applied Health Sciences | University of Illinois Chicago https://ahs.uic.edu/academics/occupational-therapy/entry-level-occupational-therapy-doctorate/after-you-apply/checklist-for-admitted-students/
• Occupational Therapy | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Course Catalog https://catalog.illinois.edu/undergraduate/preprofessional/occupational-therapy/
• Illinois Occupational Therapy https://www.occupationaltherapylicense.org/illinois-occupational-therapy/
• Occupational Therapist Series Class Spec https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/ViewSeries.aspx

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