Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
Occupational Therapist Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for occupational therapist in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Occupational Therapist in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$98,900 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of 98,900, Occupational Therapists in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $98,340. Illinois ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$98,900Hourly estimate
$47.551% above national median
Difference: +$560
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOccupational Therapist Salary Ranking
#18 of 50 statesfor Occupational Therapist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 119,470 |
| #2 | Oregon | 106,840 |
| #3 | Nevada | 104,770 |
| #4 | Colorado | 103,970 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 103,510 |
Nearby States Comparison
Occupational Therapist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $98,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $86,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $88,780 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $93,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $91,250 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $93,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $84,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $67,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $66,940 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,430 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Occupational Therapist in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Occupational Therapists in Illinois?
Illinois lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Occupational Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Occupational Therapist in Illinois?
The board typically expects Degree required for Occupational Therapist licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Occupational Therapist salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Occupational Therapists in Illinois is 98,900. Salaries range from $67,530 (10th percentile) to $128,810 (90th percentile).
How does the Occupational Therapist salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Occupational Therapists in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $98,340, with a state median of 98,900.
How many Occupational Therapists work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 7,410 Occupational Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Occupational Therapists in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.