Becoming a registered occupational therapist
To start working as an occupational therapist or calling yourself an OT, you need to meet requirements to register with COTO and receive written confirmation along with a registration number. Learn more about the requirements for your application.
Understanding your registration requirements
By registering, occupational therapists certify that they meet the necessary standards of education and professional conduct. This ensures high-quality care for clients. It also provides a level of accountability and oversight, protecting both the public and the integrity of the profession. Additionally, registration facilitates continuous professional development and adherence to ethical guidelines.
The requirements include:
- A Bachelor of Science degree or Master of Science in Occupational Therapy obtained in Canada, or
- An occupational therapy degree considered equivalent by the College’s Registration Committee.
If you were educated outside of Canada, your education is reviewed by the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy Regulatory Organizations (ACOTRO) to ensure that it is substantially equivalent to the content of an Ontario occupational therapy program.
What if you don’t meet requirements?
If you don’t meet one of more of the above requirements, your application may be referred to the College’s Registration Committee. After considering your application and submissions, the Registration Committee will make one of the following decisions:
- issue a certificate of registration
- issue a certificate of registration with terms, conditions and limitations
- issue a certificate of registration after completing specified training or additional exams
- refuse to issue a certificate of registration
If you need to appeal
If you disagree with a decision of the Registration Committee, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Health Professional Appeal and Review Board (HPARB). HPARB is an independent review board established under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA). You can apparel by writing to HPARB and to the Registration Committee within 30 days of receiving the Committee’s decision.
With your appeal, you can ask for one of two things:
- a hearing (you and a College representative appear in person to present evidence to HPARB)
- a review (HPARB members review written submissions from you and the College)
HPARB decisions can be appealed further to the Divisional Court of Ontario.
Find the registration type that fits you
General Registration
General registration is issued to applicants who meet all of the registration requirements. General registrants are able to practice without restriction. These can include applicants from across the globe who have been educated in Canada or abroad. It can also include those who are registered in another province.
Reapplying to the College
If you were previously registered with the College, you are required to reapply for registration. You’ll need to complete all sections of the online application and pay the applicable application and registration fees. You’ll also need to meet the currency, suitability to practise, and insurance requirements.
Provisional or Temporary Registration
Provisional registration may be issued to applicants who are waiting to write the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination (NOTCE). Temporary registration is intended for occupational therapists who are registered in another province or country, but need to practice in Ontario on a temporary basis.
Suitability to practice
Learn about whether you’re suitable to practice in Ontario and any limitations that may keep you from being able to practice in the province as an occupational therapist.
Relevant resources
Next steps and contacts
Timelines and fees
View the timeline and fees for applying to be an OT.
Contact us for support
Get in touch with us with any questions you may have.
Ready to apply?
Fill out an application to be on your way to becoming an OT.