Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Occupational Therapist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for occupational therapist in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
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
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Licensure for Occupational Therapy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$91,250 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 91,250, Occupational Therapists in Kentucky earn 7% below the national median of $98,340. Kentucky ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$91,250Hourly estimate
$43.877% below national median
Difference: -$7,090
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOccupational Therapist Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $91,250 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $93,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $95,880 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $93,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $100,540 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $96,030 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $93,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $98,900 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 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
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Licensure for Occupational Therapy
500 Mero Street, 2 SC 32, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5027828807
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Occupational Therapist in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Occupational Therapist licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Occupational Therapist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Occupational Therapists in Kentucky is 91,250. Salaries range from $68,140 (10th percentile) to $115,940 (90th percentile).
How does the Occupational Therapist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Occupational Therapists in Kentucky earn 7% below the national median of $98,340, with a state median of 91,250.
How many Occupational Therapists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 2,110 Occupational Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional Licensing / Board of Licensure for Occupational Therapy. Review agency details at http://bot.ky.gov/.