Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Healthcare
Occupational Therapist Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for occupational therapist in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota
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
ND Board of Occupational Therapy Practice
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,910 median (19% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#50 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 North Dakota
With a median salary of 79,910, Occupational Therapists in North Dakota earn 19% below the national median of $98,340. North Dakota ranks #50 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$79,910Hourly estimate
$38.4219% below national median
Difference: -$18,430
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOccupational Therapist Salary Ranking
#50 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $79,910 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $85,040 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $81,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $84,440 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 56 | Medium | 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
ND Board of Occupational Therapy Practice
PO Box 4005, Bismarck, ND, 58502-4005
Phone: 7012500847
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $91,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $81,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,790 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $51,310 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Occupational Therapist in North Dakota?
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Occupational Therapist licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Occupational Therapist salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Occupational Therapists in North Dakota is 79,910. Salaries range from $64,480 (10th percentile) to $102,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Occupational Therapist salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Occupational Therapists in North Dakota earn 19% below the national median of $98,340, with a state median of 79,910.
How many Occupational Therapists work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 610 Occupational Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND Board of Occupational Therapy Practice. Review agency details at http://www.ndotboard.com/.