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Limited Permits - Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a Limited Permit?

A. Limited permits are issued to recent graduates to allow them to work under supervision while they are waiting to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination.

Q. How do I qualify for a Limited Permit?

A. You must apply to the NBCOT to take the licensing examination within four (4) months of completing the education and fieldwork requirements for licensure or certification. You must also provide a copy of the Authorization to Test Letter (ATT) from NBCOT and submit fingerprints for a criminal background investigation.

Q. How do I apply for a Limited Permit?

A. The same application form is used to apply for a Limited Permit.

Q. Do I need to submit my official transcripts to receive a Limited Permit?

A. Official sealed transcripts are not required to be issued a limited permit, but they are required for licensure. Limited permit holders should submit official transcripts as soon as possible.

Q. How do I get my permanent license/certificate after I pass the NBCOT exam?

A. Once the Board receives the passing exam results, your application will be reviewed for completeness. If the application is approved, you will be notified in writing of the amount of the initial license/certificate fee. Once the fee is received, the license/certificate will be issued within 3-5 working days.

Q. Do I need to submit a new application if my Limited Permit expires?

A. No. Your application can remain on file for a period of two (2) years after your Limited Permit expires. If you have not passed the exam within two years of submitting your original application, the application will be abandoned and you will have to submit a new application.

Q. What happens if I fail the examination?

A. If you fail the NBCOT examination, you must notify the Board immediately. As soon as you have been notified of a failing score, you must cease practicing immediately. The Limited Permit will be cancelled and the $75.00 fee forfeited.

Q. How long do I have to take the examination?

A. Limited Permits are valid for four (4) months, however, you must take the examination within your first eligibility period (set by NBCOT). If you do not take the exam before the expiration date of your eligibility period, the Limited Permit will be cancelled and the $75.00 fee forfeited.

Q. Can my Limited Permit be extended or renewed?

A. No. Limited permits are issued only once. They cannot be renewed or extended under any circumstance.

Q. How can I verify my Limited Permit?

A. Applicants can verify that a limited permit has been issued by contacting the Board. Do not contact the Board unless six (6) business days have passed since submitting the completed form and limited permit fee. Limited Permits cannot be verified online.

Q. Does my supervisor need to co-sign all of my notes?

A. Yes. All documented client-related services provided by the limited permit holder shall be reviewed and cosigned by the supervising occupational therapist.

Q. Does my supervisor need to be at the same facility in order for me to provide services?

A. No. The level of supervision for all personnel is determined by the supervising occupational therapist whose responsibility it is to ensure that the amount, degree, and pattern of supervision are consistent with the knowledge, skill and ability of the person being supervised.

Q. Can an OT Limited Permit holder supervise an OTA?

A. No.

Q. Can a Limited Permit holder supervise students?

A. No.

Q. Can a Limited Permit holder supervise an OT aide?

A. Yes, but only when the aide is performing tasks that are not client-related.

"Non-client related tasks" are defined as clerical, secretarial and administrative activities; transportation of patients/clients; preparation or maintenance of treatment equipment and work area; taking care of patient/client personal needs during treatments; and assisting in the construction of adaptive equipment and splints.