Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Occupational Therapy Assistant Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for occupational therapy assistant in Virginia, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Occupational Therapy Assistant in Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- 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 board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$73,870 median (8% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Virginia eligibility requirements for Occupational Therapy Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Health Professions~Virginia Board of Medicine.
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of 73,870, Occupational Therapy Assistants in Virginia earn 8% above the national median of 68340. Virginia ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$73,870Hourly estimate
$35.518% above national median
Difference: +$5,530
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOccupational Therapy Assistant Salary Ranking
#8 of 50 statesfor Occupational Therapy Assistant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 79,420 |
| #2 | Texas | 77,910 |
| #3 | Arkansas | 77,340 |
| #4 | Maryland | 77,330 |
| #5 | Nevada | 76,450 |
Nearby States Comparison
Occupational Therapy Assistant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $73,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $77,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $61,320 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $65,980 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $62,060 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $70,940 | Degree required | State 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 | 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. |
| Tennessee | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is 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.
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 Therapy Assistant 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 Therapy Assistants in Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Occupational Therapy Assistants.
What education do you need to become a Occupational Therapy Assistant in Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Occupational Therapy Assistant licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Occupational Therapy Assistant salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants in Virginia is 73,870. Salaries range from 55500 (10th percentile) to 88430 (90th percentile).
How does the Occupational Therapy Assistant salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Occupational Therapy Assistants in Virginia earn 8% above the national median of 68340, with a state median of 73,870.
How many Occupational Therapy Assistants work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 1260 Occupational Therapy Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapy Assistant 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.
Who is the licensing agency for Occupational Therapy Assistants 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/.