There are a number of steps in the registration process to become an occupational therapist in Canada. Depending on your education, language skills and work experience, you may be able to begin a number of these steps at the same time. However, there is a sequence of activities in the registration process.

Occupational therapy practice in Canada is regulated by provincial organizations. You must register with the regulatory organization in the province you wish to practise in. Most provinces and territories require occupational therapists to write the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination.

When you apply to register with a regulatory organization in Canada, you will be asked if you graduated from an occupational therapy program recognized by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT). You will also be asked this question when you apply to write the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination.

Graduates from a non-WFOT organization should consult the regulatory organization in the province in which they wish to practise for information on academic assessment.

The registration process for regulatory organizations:

	If English or French is your first language or your occupational therapy training was in English or French
	OR
	you have evidence of your fluency in English or French
	Submit registration application form
	Submit official education transcripts with equivalent qualifications
	An academic assessment is performed by a credential agency
	If the education program is approved by the regulatory organization
	OR
	Credential review is required. This may result in academic upgrading and or preceptorship
	Show proof of active practice
	Show proof of liability insurance
	Pass the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination
	OR
	Register to take the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination and have an offer of employment with supervision
	Show proof of employment eligibility
	Provisional practising certification of registration of OT
	Take the National Occupational Therapy Certification Examination
	General practising certificate of registration for occupational therapy