Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Occupational Therapist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for occupational therapist in Virginia, 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 Virginia
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
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Medicine
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$100,540 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 100,540, Occupational Therapists in Virginia earn 2% above the national median of $98,340. Virginia ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$100,540Hourly estimate
$48.342% above national median
Difference: +$2,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOccupational Therapist Salary Ranking
#12 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $100,540 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $101,880 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $93,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $91,250 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $96,030 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $94,580 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 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 Health Professions • Virginia Board of Medicine
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043684600
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $85,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $94,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,910 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Occupational Therapist in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia 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 Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Occupational Therapist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Occupational Therapist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Occupational Therapists in Virginia is 100,540. Salaries range from $58,440 (10th percentile) to $133,170 (90th percentile).
How does the Occupational Therapist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Occupational Therapists in Virginia earn 2% above the national median of $98,340, with a state median of 100,540.
How many Occupational Therapists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 3,670 Occupational Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Medicine. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Medicine/.