National
How to Become an Occupational Therapist Assistant
Learn what occupational therapist assistant professionals do, how to enter the field, and how the career can grow—plus current U.S. earning potential.
Texas Median Salary
$72,300
2026 EDITION
Time to Entry
2–6 weeks
Total Investment
$225–$300
Employment #s
5610
Our Features
Every figure in this guide is dated and traced to the agency or survey it came from. Wage data: BLS OEWS May 2025 (released 15 May 2026).
Who It's For:
For people exploring occupational therapist assistant and ready-to-start candidates who want a clear, source-backed view of the work, the entry requirements, the time and cost involved, and the paths available after qualification.
What's in the Guide:
What the work involves, where the role fits, and what employers expect | A step-by-step entry roadmap covering education, regulation, credentials, exams, time, and cost | Career-specific skills and realities: The National Certifying Body; The Texas State Licensing Board | Current U.S. pay ranges and the factors that shape earning potential | A source-backed 90-day action plan
Earning Potential
Texas
$60,980 – $95,900
United States
$60,980 – $95,900
BLS OEWS May 2025 (released 15 May 2026)
Regulatory Authority
Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners
Is a license required?
Varies
Credential
The License/Certification — NBCOT COTA® Exam
Continuing Education
24 contact hours of continuing education per renewal cycle, including the jurispru
Examination
psychometrically validated examination
Heading 3
Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners sets the standard that employers hire against.
Common Questions
Credential
