2026 How to Become an Occupational Therapist in Nevada

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The demand for occupational therapists in Nevada is growing steadily, with the state expecting a 17% increase in jobs over the next decade. This rise reflects the expanding healthcare needs of Nevada’s aging population and increasing awareness of occupational therapy benefits. Pursuing a career in this field offers job security, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers.

This article outlines clear, actionable steps to become an occupational therapist in Nevada. Prepared by career planning experts, it guides readers through education requirements, licensing, and practical strategies to succeed in this rewarding profession.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Nevada

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

Formal education forms the foundation for occupational therapists to support patients' physical, emotional, and developmental needs effectively. This education equips future therapists with clinical expertise, critical thinking skills, and hands-on experience to meet diverse healthcare demands. To meet the occupational therapy degree requirements Nevada candidates must complete several key educational steps.

These essential education requirements include:

• ACOTE-Accredited Degree: Candidates must earn a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree from an ACOTE accredited occupational therapy program. Nevada offers accredited programs such as those at Touro University-Nevada, ensuring students receive nationally recognized training that meets rigorous standards.
• Supervised Clinical Fieldwork: A minimum of 24 weeks of supervised clinical occupational therapy experience is required. This fieldwork offers practical exposure under licensed therapists, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real healthcare settings and develop professional skills.
• National Certification Examination: After completing the degree and fieldwork, candidates must pass the Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) exam with a minimum score of 450. Maintaining current certification through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is necessary for licensure and employment in Nevada.
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How do you get a state license to practice occupational therapy in Nevada?

Obtaining a state license is a critical step for occupational therapists to practice legally and maintain professional credibility in Nevada. Meeting the Nevada occupational therapy license requirements ensures that therapists have the proper education, training, and certification to deliver safe and effective care. The following outlines the essential steps involved in how to apply for OT license in Nevada.

• Graduate from an ACOTE Certified Program: To qualify for licensure, you must complete a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). In Nevada, Touro University offers programs for occupational therapists, while the College of Southern Nevada provides training for occupational therapy assistants. Graduating from these programs ensures you meet the educational standards needed to pursue licensure.
• Complete Clinical Field Work: Practical experience is mandatory, requiring 16 weeks of supervised clinical fieldwork for occupational therapy assistants and 24 weeks for licensed occupational therapists. This hands-on training helps develop essential skills and prepares you for the national certification exams.
• Pass the NBCOT Exam: You must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam, with assistants taking the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) exam and therapists taking the Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) exam. A minimum score of 450 is required to pass and achieve national certification.
• Submit a State Application: Once nationally certified, apply for your Nevada license by submitting an application, official transcripts, and your license fee. The Nevada Board also requires verification of NBCOT certification to complete this process.
• Background Check and Additional Requirements: You must comply with state regulations by submitting personal identification and employment information as requested by the Nevada Board of Occupational Therapy. Keeping your contact information current with the board is also important for maintaining licensure.

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

Maintaining a current occupational therapy license in Nevada is vital for ensuring ongoing professional competence, regulatory accountability, and adherence to up-to-date standards. Regular license renewal supports occupational therapists in meeting evolving state requirements and adapting to advances in practice that ultimately benefit patient care.

In Nevada, occupational therapists renew their licenses every two years, aligned with the date their license was originally issued. Each renewal period is individualized rather than tied to a specific calendar month, requiring timely submission of renewal applications before expiration. Practitioners must complete 24 hours of continuing education within each biennial cycle to qualify for renewal.

Applications submitted more than 30 days after expiration are not accepted, leading to lapses and requiring reinstatement procedures. These structured renewal intervals help occupational therapists maintain eligibility to practice legally and stay informed about changes in regulations and professional standards relevant to their work.

When speaking with an occupational therapist who graduated from a local Nevada school, he shared that the renewal timeline initially felt strict but soon became a manageable routine. “Keeping track of my license issue date and planning continuing education ahead helped me avoid last-minute stress,” he explained. He emphasized how the requirement to complete continuing education pushed him to explore new treatment techniques, which enriched his clinical skills. Though he found the reinstatement process daunting when a renewal deadline was nearly missed early in his career, the clear guidelines and support from the Nevada Board made subsequent renewals straightforward. His experience underscored that staying proactive and organized transforms renewal obligations into opportunities for professional growth rather than obstacles.

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

Continuing education plays a vital role for occupational therapists in Nevada to maintain their professional competence, meet state standards, and stay current with evolving therapeutic techniques and regulations. By engaging in ongoing learning, practitioners ensure they provide effective, up-to-date care that aligns with both professional expectations and patient needs.

The Nevada occupational therapy continuing education requirements support these goals through structured guidelines for license renewal.

• Biennial Hours Requirement: Licensed OTs and OTAs must complete at least 24 contact hours of continuing education every two years. This ensures licensees consistently update their knowledge and skills throughout their professional careers.
• Acceptable Course Topics and Formats: Courses should be relevant to occupational therapy practice, with no restrictions on the number of online hours. This flexibility allows practitioners to tailor their learning to specific professional development goals and schedules.
• Reporting and Documentation Procedures: Practitioners are responsible for maintaining accurate records of completed continuing education activities. Up to 10 hours of unused credit can be carried over to the next renewal cycle, making it easier to manage continuing education requirements efficiently.
• Additional Requirements for OTAs: While OTAs follow the same continuing education standards as OTs, those reinstating an expired license must submit proof of employment and supervision by a licensed occupational therapist. This ensures proper oversight and safe practice during reentry.
• Jurisprudence Examination: Although separate from continuing education hours, passing the Nevada Occupational Therapy Jurisprudence Examination is necessary for initial licensure and reinstatement. It is not required for standard license renewals but remains a key component of licensure requirements overall.

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

The total cost of becoming an occupational therapist in Nevada depends on several factors including education choice, exam fees, and licensing costs. Carefully planning for these expenses allows students to manage their finances more effectively throughout their career preparation.

• Tuition and Fees for Accredited OT Programs: Tuition varies widely depending on the institution. For example, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) charges residents about $60,000–$70,000 for the full occupational therapy doctorate program, while non-residents pay significantly more. Other programs like Touro University Nevada and Hawaii Pacific University have different tuition ranges but expect to pay between $39,000 and $137,000 overall, excluding living expenses.
• NBCOT Exam Fee: Passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam is required, with a fee of $515 as of 2026. Budget for additional costs such as study materials and potential retake fees.
• Nevada State Licensure Fees: Initial licensure through the Nevada Occupational Therapy Board costs $275, with renewals costing $150 annually. Keep in mind possible minor fees for processing or verification.
• Background Checks and Drug Screens: Most programs and licensing require these safety checks, typically costing around $100 each. A criminal record may affect your eligibility to become certified or licensed.
• Additional Educational Costs: Expect to pay for textbooks ($1,000–$2,000 over three years), professional liability insurance (around $37 yearly), technology and parking fees, and membership dues for organizations like the American Occupational Therapy Association, which charges $75 annually for students.

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

Paying for occupational therapy education in Nevada can be a major challenge due to the high costs of tuition and related expenses. Financial aid options are essential in helping students afford their training without accumulating overwhelming debt. Below are some practical financial aid opportunities for OT students in Nevada.

• Federal Grants: Federal grants like the Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) are awarded based on financial need and do not need to be repaid. Students must complete the FAFSA to qualify, which can help cover tuition and other school-related costs.
• State Grants: Nevada offers the Silver State Opportunity Grant (SSOG) for low-income undergraduates and the Nevada State Access Grant for students with a Student Aid Index (SAI) of 2,050 or less. These grants require FAFSA submission and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Student Loans: Federal student loans, including Grad PLUS Loans, are available to occupational therapy students to cover remaining costs after grants and scholarships. These loans must be repaid with interest, so maintaining good credit is important for favorable terms.
• University-Based Scholarships: Many universities in Nevada, such as UNLV and UNR, offer scholarships specifically for OT students based on merit or financial need, helping to reduce tuition expenses.
• Professional or Association-Sponsored Awards: Scholarships from organizations like the American Occupational Therapy Foundation range from $150 to $5,000 for students in accredited programs. The Nevada Occupational Therapy Association may also provide awards, although details vary.
• External Scholarships: Additional scholarships from groups like AMBUCS and the American Association of University Women support OT students by focusing on specific criteria such as academic achievement or financial need.

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

Out-of-state occupational therapists cannot begin practicing in Nevada without first obtaining a state license. Nevada is not part of the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, which means there is no streamlined or expedited pathway for therapists licensed in other states.

All applicants must complete the full licensing process, including submitting an application, providing NBCOT certification, verifying licenses from other states, passing the Nevada jurisprudence exam, and paying the associated application fee. Reciprocity or endorsement based solely on out-of-state licensure is not available, so no special consideration is given to existing credentials from other states.

Nevada does offer a temporary license for out-of-state therapists who want to practice for less than 12 months, provided they hold a valid license elsewhere and meet standard educational and certification requirements. This temporary license requires submission of employment and supervision details within 30 days of starting work and carries a separate fee. Despite this option, full licensure remains mandatory for ongoing practice in the state.

I spoke with an occupational therapist from Nevada who graduated locally, and she shared how she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by out-of-state therapists. “They often feel frustrated by the need to gather so many documents and complete another exam, despite already being licensed elsewhere.” She noted that while the process ensures quality and protects patients, it can also delay therapists joining the workforce. “Ultimately, I admire their determination. Navigating these steps shows real commitment to practicing here,” she reflected, highlighting the balance between regulation and opportunity in Nevada’s licensing system.

How can supplementary certifications broaden career opportunities for Nevada occupational therapists?

Enhancing core clinical expertise with additional certifications can open diverse pathways in specialized care and integrated healthcare models. Supplementary credentials enable practitioners to refine niche skills and adapt to evolving patient needs, positioning them favorably for leadership roles and comprehensive care strategies. For instance, pursuing certifications that complement occupational therapy practices can bolster clinical versatility and professional credibility. Explore how to become a caregiver in Nevada as one targeted pathway to expand your service repertoire and meet interdisciplinary care demands.

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

Success as an occupational therapist in Nevada hinges on a well-rounded skill set that enables professionals to help clients regain independence, enhance their quality of life, and work effectively within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. These skills are vital for addressing the diverse needs of Nevada’s populations, from urban centers to rural communities, ensuring tailored and impactful care.

Below are essential skills that occupational therapists must develop to thrive in this dynamic field.

• Clinical Knowledge and Assessment Skills: A deep understanding of anatomy, pathology, and therapeutic techniques allows therapists to accurately evaluate clients and create effective treatment plans that promote recovery and functional independence.
• Communication and Interpersonal Abilities: Clear communication with clients, families, and healthcare professionals ensures coordinated care and builds trust, which is crucial for client engagement and adherence to therapy.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Therapists must adapt interventions to meet individual client needs and resource constraints, continually assessing and refining treatments to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Creativity and Adaptability: Designing personalized therapy that reflects client interests while responding to evolving healthcare environments enhances intervention relevance and effectiveness.
• Ethical and Cultural Competence: Respecting diverse cultural backgrounds and adhering to ethical standards fosters equitable care and improves client satisfaction in Nevada’s multicultural communities.

What specializations are available for occupational therapists in Nevada?

Specializing allows occupational therapists in Nevada to develop focused expertise on specific populations, conditions, or practice areas, enhancing their career opportunities and increasing their impact. This targeted approach helps therapists provide more effective, personalized care tailored to community needs.

Below are some common specializations available to occupational therapists in Nevada.

• Pediatrics: Pediatric occupational therapy specializations in Nevada involve working with children who have developmental delays or disabilities. Therapists typically practice in schools, pediatric clinics, or early intervention programs to support essential skills for daily living and learning.
• Geriatrics: This specialization supports older adults in maintaining independence and managing age-related challenges. Geriatric occupational therapists often work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or home health settings, focusing on mobility, cognition, and social engagement.
• Mental Health: Therapists in mental health occupational therapy careers Nevada collaborate with individuals facing mental illnesses or emotional challenges. They are commonly employed in psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, or private practices to promote mental well-being and functional daily skills.
• Hand Therapy: Hand therapists treat injuries and conditions affecting the hands and upper limbs. They work in outpatient rehabilitation clinics or hospitals, using splinting and exercises to restore function and dexterity.
• Rehabilitation: This specialization helps patients recover strength, mobility, and independence following injuries or illnesses. Rehabilitation therapists work in hospitals, rehab centers, or sports medicine clinics, designing recovery plans alongside healthcare teams.

For those interested in expanding their healthcare knowledge and career options beyond occupational therapy, exploring medical coding and billing can be a valuable complement.

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

Occupational therapist salaries in Nevada vary significantly due to factors like experience level, work setting, and geographic location. These elements shape the earning potential for professionals across the state. Below are key factors affecting the average occupational therapist salary in Nevada:

• Years of Experience: Occupational therapists with more experience usually earn higher salaries because of their advanced skills and expertise. Entry-level OTs tend to start at the lower end of the salary scale, while those with over ten years in the profession can earn well above $110,000 annually.
• Type of Employer: The employer’s setting greatly influences pay, with hospitals and private healthcare systems generally offering higher salaries compared to schools or outpatient clinics. Travel OTs are often paid premium weekly rates but may face less job stability.
• Geographic Location: Within Nevada Salaries tend to be higher in urban centers like Las Vegas and Reno due to demand and cost of living. For example, Reno offers an average hourly wage around $49.62, with some roles paying up to $70.71 per hour, while rural areas usually offer lower compensation.
• Specialization and Credentials: OTs who have advanced certifications or specialized skills typically command higher salaries, reflecting their additional training and the complexity of care they provide.
• Work Status and Hours: Full-time occupational therapists generally receive higher annual pay and benefits compared to part-time or per-diem workers, who may have more flexible schedules but lower yearly earnings.

The occupational therapy salary range Nevada professionals encounter is competitive, especially when considering the overall job market and demand trends. For financial support pursuing this career path, students might explore medical coding financial aid options to help with education costs.

What Do Occupational Therapists in Nevada Say About Their Career?

References:

• 18 Occupational Therapist Skills Required for Success https://www.alliant.edu/blog/occupational-therapist-skills
• FAQs - NV Board of Occupational Therapy https://www.nvot.org/resources/FAQs.asp
• Occupational Therapy | School of Integrated Health Sciences | UNLV https://www.unlv.edu/integratedhealth/academics/occupational-therapy
• "Essential Competencies for Occupational Therapy in End-of-Life Care" by Karmella Bognot https://oasis.library.unlv.edu/thesesdissertations/4108/
• Occupational Therapy - NVHealthForce https://www.nvhealthforce.org/jobs/occupational-therapy/
• The Top 11 OT Skills To Put On Your Resume - Care Options for Kids https://careoptionsforkids.com/blog/occupational-therapy-skills/
• Nevada Occupational Therapy License https://www.occupationaltherapylicense.org/nevada-occupational-therapy/
• OT/PT License Nevada | AMN Healthcare https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/resources/state-boards/therapy/nevada/
• Pre-Occupational Therapy | Exploratory & Pre-Professional Advising Center | University of Nevada, Reno https://www.unr.edu/exploratory-professional/pre-professional/pre-occupational-therapy
• Nevada Occupational Therapy Degree Programs, Online Included | Occupational Therapy Degrees https://www.occupationaltherapydegrees.org/schools-by-state/nevada

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