Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. Department 671 — Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy

Chapter 671-1 Organization

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-1-.01 Organization of Board {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-1-.01 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-1-.01}

The Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy shall consist of six members to be appointed by the Governor. The public may obtain information and submit requests at the office of the Joint Secretary, State Examining Boards.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. 43-28-4(b)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Organization of Board" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Amended: Rule repealed and a new Rule of the same title adopted. Filed November 27, 1984; effective December 17, 1984.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-1-.02 Officers {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-1-.02 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-1-.02}

The Board shall elect annually from its members a president and a vice president who shall have the privilege of reelection. In the event that one of these officers vacates their elected position, the Board will hold a new election. The president shall preside at meetings of the Board. The vice president shall preside at meetings in the absence of the president.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-2, 43-1-25, 43-28-4, 43-28-6
• History. Original Rule entitled "Officers" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Amended: F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-1-.03 Minutes {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-1-.03 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-1-.03}

Minutes shall be kept of all Board meetings and shall become the official minutes only upon approval by the Board.

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1976, pp. 993, 997; Ga. Code Ann., Sec. 84-7105
• History. Original Rule entitled "Minutes" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.

Chapter 671-2 Definitions

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.01 Law Defined {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-2-.01 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.01}

The Law as used in these rules shall mean the Georgia State of Occupational Therapy Licensing Act (Ga. Code Ann. Chapter 43-28).

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Ch. 43-28
• History. Original Rule entitled "Law Defined" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. July 11, 1984; eff. July 31, 1984.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.02 Supervision Defined {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-2-.02 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.02}

Supervision as used in the law shall mean personal involvement of the licensed occupational therapist in the supervisee's professional experience which includes evaluation of his or her performance. Further, supervision shall mean in person supervision with weekly verbal contact and consultation which may be done via telehealth, monthly review of patient care documentation, and specific delineation of tasks and responsibilities by the licensed occupational therapist and shall include the responsibility for personally reviewing and interpreting the results of any habilitative or rehabilitative procedures conducted by the supervisee. It is the responsibility of the licensed occupational therapist to ensure that the supervisee does not perform duties for which he or she is not trained. C.O.T.A.s and limited permit holders must be supervised.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-28-3, 43-28-7, 43-28-12
• History. Original Rule entitled "Supervision Defined" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. May 24, 1994; eff. June 13, 1994.
• Amended: F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.03 Direct Supervision Defined {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-2-.03 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.03}

Direct Supervision as used in the Law shall mean daily on-site, close contact whereby the supervisor is able to respond quickly to the needs of the client or supervisee. It requires specific delineation of task and responsibilities by a licensed Occupational Therapist and shall include the responsibility for personally reviewing and interpreting the result of any habilitative or rehabilitative procedures conducted by the supervisee. It is the responsibility of the licensed occupational therapist to ensure that the supervisee does not perform duties for which he/she is not trained.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-28-3, 43-28-7, 43-28-12
• History. Original Rule entitled "Direct Supervision Defined" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Jan. 29, 1997; eff. Feb. 18, 1997.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.04 Consultation Defined {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-2-.04 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.04}

(1) For purposes of O.C.G.A. Section 43-28-3(7) , consultation shall mean periodic meetings between the licensed occupational therapist and the occupational therapy assistant to review and to provide recommendations and resource information regarding methods of implementation of the occupational therapy programs.

(2) For purposes of O.C.G.A. Section 43-28-15(6) , consultation shall mean providing advice, resource information, and/or therapy demonstrations to an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant licensed in the State of Georgia, provided that any final decisions involving patient care shall be made by the Georgia licensee.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-28-3, 43-28-7
• History. Original Rule entitled "Consultation Defined" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. May 24, 1994; eff. June 13, 1994.
• Note: Correction of non-substantive typographical error in paragraph (2),"O.C.G.A. Section 43-28-15(b)" corrected to "O.C.G.A. Section 43-28-15(6)", as requested by the Agency. Effective May 17, 2016.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.05 Repealed {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-2-.05 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.05}

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-7
• History. Original Rule entitled "In Association With Defined" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: F. Mar. 25, 2008; eff. Apr. 14, 2008.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.06 Computation of Supervised Fieldwork Experience Defined {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-2-.06 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-2-.06}

For purposes of O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-9 -(a) (3), the Board defines four weeks as equal to one month to compute time for determining compliance with the fieldwork requirement.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-28-7, 43-28-9
• History. Original Rule entitled "Computation of Supervised Fieldwork Experience Defined" adopted. F. Jan. 29, 1988; eff. Feb. 18, 1988.

Chapter 671-3 License Requirements

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.01 Application. Amended {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.01 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.01}

(1) Any occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant who plans to practice as a licensed occupational therapist or licensed occupational therapy assistant in the State of Georgia shall apply for licensure to the Board, on forms provided by the Board.

(2) In order to meet the Georgia requirements for licensure, an applicant must submit an affidavit stating that the applicant is a U.S. citizen or an affidavit stating that the applicant is lawfully present in the U.S. under federal immigration law and O.C.G.A. § 50-36-1(f)(1) .

(3) Lawful presence in the U.S. must be documented by:

(a) submitting an identification document listed as a secure and verifiable document on the list maintained by the Office of the Georgia Attorney General under O.C.G.A. § 50-36-1 ; and,

(b) an affidavit of citizenship that complies with the provisions of federal immigration law and O.C.G.A. § 50-36-1(f)(1)(B) .

(4) Both the secure and verifiable document and affidavit of citizenship must be submitted to the Board to complete the licensure application.

(5) Applicants for occupational therapy or occupational therapy assistant licensure in Georgia must meet all requirements for licensure as defined within the statute and Board Rules prior to issuance of a license.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-3, 43-1-19, 43-1-25, 43-28-7, 43-28-8, 43-28-9, 43-28-10, 43-28-11, 50-36-1
• History. Original Rule entitled "Application" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Amended: New title "Application. Amended." F. June 1, 2017; eff. June 21, 2017.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.02 References. Amended {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.02 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.02}

Three references will be required on forms provided by the Board from individuals who have knowledge of the applicant's professional training or experience within the last five years. At least one professional reference must be from certified or licensed occupational therapy practitioner. The second professional reference may be from another certified or licensed occupational therapy practitioner or any other licensed healthcare professional. The third and final reference must be a personal reference.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-3, 43-1-19, 43-1-25, 43-28-7, 43-28-9, 43-28-10
• History. Original Rule entitled "References" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. May 25, 2010; eff. June 14, 2010.
• Amended: New title "Reference. Amended." F. June 1, 2017; eff. June 21, 2017.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.03 Examination {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.03 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.03}

All applicants for licensure as occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants are required to pass the nationally recognized examination administered by National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), except as otherwise provided in O.C.G.A. § 43-28-11.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-28-9(a) and (b), 43-28-10(a), (b), and (c)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Examination" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Amended: Rule repealed and a new Rule of the same title adopted. Filed July 11, 1984; effective July 31, 1984.
• Amended: F. Oct. 20, 2020; eff. Nov. 9, 2020.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.04 Passing Score {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.04 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.04}

Passing score of the examination will be determined by the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-28-9(a) and (b), 43-28-10(a), (b), and (c)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Passing Score" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977
• Amended: F. Oct. 20, 2020; eff. Nov. 9, 2020.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.05 Re-examination. Amended {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.05 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.05}

(1) An applicant who fails the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination may retake the examination to achieve a passing score.

(2) If an applicant has failed the NBCOT examination three (3) times before successfully passing, the applicant must do one of the following:

(a) Apply for a 90-day limited permit to complete a supervised clinical experience under the direct supervision of an occupational therapist, who is licensed in good standing in the state of Georgia, for a minimum of (45) forty-five days or 180 hours; or,

(b) Submit a proposal to participate in and complete a remedial program for Board approval. The proposal must include (45) forty-five days or 180 hours of didactic and supervised clinical experience and be completed under the direct supervision of an occupational therapist, who is licensed in good standing in the state of Georgia.

(3) If the applicant has failed the examination four (4) times or more before successfully passing; or, failed to successfully pass the examination within five years of completion of the academic requirements for licensure, the applicant must do one of the following:

(a) Apply for a 90-day limited permit to complete a supervised clinical experience under the direct supervision of an occupational therapist, who is licensed in good standing in the state of Georgia, for a minimum of (90) ninety days or 360 hours; or,

(b) Submit a proposal to participate in and complete a remedial program for Board approval. The proposal must include (90) ninety days or 360 hours of didactic and supervised clinical experience and be completed under the direct supervision of an occupational therapist, who is licensed in good standing in the state of Georgia.

(4) An applicant must not begin a supervised clinical experience or a proposed remedial program without first receiving notice of approval from the Board.

(5) If all requirements of this rule and the qualifications for a license are met in accordance with the laws and rules of the Board, a license will be issued.

(6) An applicant is exempt from the requirements of this rule if the applicant has:

(a) Held an active license as an occupational therapist or licensed occupational therapy assistant that is in good standing in another jurisdiction; and,

(b) Applied for that same license type in the state of Georgia; and,

(c) Can demonstrate active practice, in good standing, for a period of 12 months prior to the date of application.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-28-6, 43-28-10, 43-28-12
• History. Original Rule entitled "Re-examination" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. July 11, 1984; eff. July 31, 1984.
• Amended: New title, "Re-examination. Amended." F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.06 Limited Permit {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.06 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.06}

(1) Upon determination by the Board that all requirements for licensure have been met except for the examination, a ninety (90) day limited permit shall be issued and shall allow the applicant to practice occupational therapy under the supervision of an occupational therapist who holds a current license in this State. Prior to being issued a limited permit, applicants must submit a complete application and fee, to include Form A and any supplemental documents for approval by the Board. An applicant who fails the exam shall immediately surrender the limited permit.

(2) Applicants who are not able to document licensed practice in occupational therapy within the past 5 years may be issued a ninety (90) day limited permit to complete the required 320 hours of clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist if the applicant has successfully completed a national certification examination approved by the Board. Prior to being issued a limited permit, applicants must submit a complete application and fee, to include Form A, and any supplemental documents for approval by the Board.

(3) Applicants who have failed the examination three or more times or who have failed to pass the examination within five years of completing the academic requirements for licensure may, after passing the exam, be issued a ninety (90) day limited permit for the purposes of demonstrating competency prior to the issuance of a license. See O.C.G.A. § 43-28-20(c) . This permit shall allow the applicant to practice occupational therapy, for a period not to exceed 90 days, under the direct supervision of an occupational therapist who holds a current license in this state. Prior to being issued a limited permit, applicants must submit a complete application and fee, to include Form C, and any supplemental documents for approval by the Board.

(4) Supervised work experiences may not begin until Board approval is granted, a limited permit has been issued to the applicant, and a copy of the limited permit has been provided to the licensed occupational therapist who has been approved to supervise the applicant.

(5) Limited permits expire ninety (90) days from the date of issuance and shall not be renewed. If the licensed supervisor approved by the Board can no longer serve in that role, the applicant must submit a new Form C for approval to continue practicing under the limited permit.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-28-6, 43-28-7, 43-28-12
• History. Original Rule entitled "Limited License" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Amended: Rule repealed and a new Rule of the same title adopted. Filed July 11, 1984; effective July 31, 1984.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Limited Permit" adopted. F. May 25, 2010; eff. June 14, 2010.
• Amended: F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.07 Board Action on Applications {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.07 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.07}

Applications for licensure shall be reviewed at the next regularly scheduled general meeting of the Board after all requirements for licensure have been met and the examination scores, if applicable, have been received by the Board.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-28-6(a), (b), (c), and (e), 43-28-7, 43-28-9, 43-28-10
• History. Original Rule entitled "Board Action on Applications" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Amended: Filed July 11, 1984; effective July 31, 1984.
• Amended: F. Oct. 20, 2020; eff. Nov. 9, 2020.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.08 Renewal of License/Penalties/Continuing Education Requirements. Amended {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.08 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.08}

(1) A license issued by the Board shall expire on March 31st of even numbered years. The license may be renewed upon submission of the renewal application and payment of the required fee, provided all requirements have been met. Refer to fee schedule.

(2) A license that is not renewed on or before March 31st of the renewal year shall be deemed lapsed. A licensee may apply for late renewal of a license from April 1 st through April 30 th of the renewal year upon payment of a late renewal fee, submission of proof of continuing education as established by Board rules and completion of all appropriate forms.

(3) As of May 1 st of the renewal year, the license of an applicant who has not applied for renewal is expired and revoked by operation of law. An application for reinstatement shall be required as provided for in Rule 671-3-.09 in order to seek reinstatement of a lapsed license to practice in this State.

(4) Except as otherwise provided, each licensee is required is required to complete during each two (2) year renewal period a minimum of twenty-four (24) continuing education hours prior to the expiration date of the license. Failure to complete continuing education prior to expiration date can result in disciplinary action.

(5) Prior approval of continuing education courses is not required. Acceptable professional continuing education activities shall include activities relevant to occupational therapy practice that can be deemed to update or enhance knowledge and skills required for competent performance beyond entry level occupational therapy. Unacceptable activities include, but are not limited to:

(a) Orientation,

(b) Meetings for purposes of policy decisions,

(c) Non-educational meetings,

(d) Annual compliance training,

(e) Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) courses.

(6) A continuing education hour is defined as actual time spent in instruction or organized learning experiences excluding meals, breaks, welcome/introductions, and business meetings.

(a) At least twelve (12) hours of the required twenty-four (24) continuing education hours must be on a topic related to direct patient care. This includes occupational therapy assessment, treatment planning, occupational therapy implementation and diagnostic related information. This must include attendance at live presentations such as workshops, seminars, conferences, or formal academic coursework, or real-time, interactive webinars. To qualify as a real-time, interactive webinar, the licensee must have the ability to ask questions, receive an answer, and interact with other attendees at the time the session is taking place. It may not be a pre-recorded session.

(b) Each licensee must complete a minimum of two (2) hours of the required twenty-four (24) continuing education hours in the ethics of occupational therapy practice. These hours may be obtained online.

(c) A maximum of ten (10) of the required twenty-four (24) can be in "General" continuing education hours may be obtained by Level II fieldwork supervision, published professional writing and instructional presentations, pre-recorded electronic or web based courses, formal self-study courses, satellite broadcasts, computer learning activities, webinars, or viewing videotapes in a professional setting. These hours may also be related to administration, supervision, documentation, quality assurance and research.

(7) An individual who is applying for licensure in Georgia for the first time (never having held a Georgia OT or OTA license) and who is licensed during the second year of the biennium renewal period is not required to meet continuing education requirements for that initial renewal period only.

(8) Each licensee randomly selected for a CE audit must submit to the Board supporting documentation as specified in this rule.

(9) Persons licensed to practice as an occupational therapist or an occupational therapy assistant, or persons who file an application for reinstatement of licensure, must submit documentation of completed continuing education courses and experiences for renewal or issuance of a license.

(10) Licensees and applicants for reinstatement may register earned CE credits for courses and experiences with an online recording and reporting system approved by the Board. Licensees and applicants may register with a Board approved online system to document CE credits for license renewal and reinstatement.

(a) The Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy has approved the online recording and reporting system of CE Broker, Inc. for the purpose of this rule.

(b) Licensees and applicants shall incur no additional costs from CE Broker, Inc. for using this service.

(c) Every licensee or applicant subject to the rules of the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy shall be deemed to have given such person's consent to the Board and it's representatives to access their continuing competence record retained within the online database for the purposes of auditing and verifying completion of the Board's continuing competency requirements.

(d) If a licensee or applicant has not registered earned CE credits with the Board approved online recording and reporting system, the licensee or applicant must include all CE certificates of completion with the license renewal application or application for reinstatement.

(11) Procedures for verifying to the Board that the continuing education requirements for licensure renewal have been met:

(a) Respond accurately to questions on renewal of license application;

(b) Retain original continuing education documentation in personal files to submit to the Board if requested for a continuing education audit;

(c) Documentation as specified in this rule must be maintained by the licensee for no less than four (4) years from the beginning date of the renewal period or reinstatement.

(12) Documentation of continuing education which the Board deems as acceptable proof of completion includes the following:

(a) For continuing education courses that include attendance and participation at a live presentation such as a workshop, seminar, conference or in-service educational program:

1. A certificate of completion or similar documentation signed by program official, and

2. A program description including sponsor, course title, date(s), program objectives/learning outcomes, content description, and agenda or schedule. A shortened description may be accepted for programs specifically exempted by the Board such as AOTA and GOTA Conferences;

(b) For "General" continuing education as referenced in this rule, if obtained at a conference, workshop or live presentation, required documentation is as noted above. All other must include:

1. Explanation of the relationship of the activity to occupational therapy and your professional growth.

2. Date(s) and clock hours of the activity;

3. Other information as may be requested.

(c) A description of the fieldwork including name and type of facility, name of the fieldwork educator and times spent in direct supervision of the student is required in order to receive credit for serving as the primary clinical fieldwork educator for Level II occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant fieldwork students.

(d) For published professional writing, applied research, and instructional presentations, as referenced in this rule, including first time or significantly revised presentations or an academic class session, workshop, seminar, in-service or professional meeting program session:

1. Submit a description of the presentation or research including location, title, date, hours of presentation, general content description, and type of audience; and,

2. Verification of the presentation, research or formal thank you note signed by the sponsor or program official.

(e) Documentation of pre-recorded electronic or web based course, formal self-study courses, satellite broadcasts, computer learning activities or viewing of videotapes in a professional setting must include:

1. Verified instructional time by the course sponsor, a certificate of completion or similar documentation signed by the program official; and,

2. A program description including sponsor, course title, date(s), program objectives/learning outcomes, and content description.

(f) Continuing education should be documented on the appropriate board form, available on the Board website, upon request by the Board.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-3, 43-1-4, 43-1-7, 43-1-19, 43-1-25, 43-28-6, 43-28-7, 43-28-8, 43-28-9, 43-28-13, 43-28-14
• History. Original Rule entitled "Renewal" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. July 1, 1982; eff. July 21, 1982.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. July 11, 1984; eff. July 31, 1984.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Renewal of License/Penalties/Continuing Education Requirements" adopted. F. Apr. 14, 1988; eff. May 4, 1988.
• Amended: F. Nov. 20, 1991; eff. Dec. 10, 1991.
• Amended: F. Jan. 28, 1994; eff. Feb. 17, 1994.
• Amended: F. Feb. 1, 1996; eff. Feb. 21, 1996.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Dec. 2, 2002; eff. Dec. 22, 2002.
• Amended: F. May 4, 2005; eff. May 24, 2005.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. May 30, 2006; eff. June 19, 2006.
• Amended: F. Mar. 25, 2008; eff. Apr. 14, 2008.
• Amended: F. Feb. 20, 2009; eff. Mar. 12, 2009.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Renewal of License/Penalties/Continuing Education Requirements. Amended" adopted. F. Feb. 22, 2012; eff. Mar. 13, 2012.
• Amended: F. Oct. 2, 2013; eff. Oct. 22, 2013.
• Amended: F. Jan. 20, 2015; eff. Feb. 9, 2015.
• Amended: F. Jan. 20, 2015; eff. Feb. 9, 2015.
• Note: Correction of non-substantive typographical error in paragraph (3), removed duplicated wording of "is required" in second sentence, as requested by the Agency. Eff. October 11, 2016.
• Amended: F. June 1, 2017; eff. June 21, 2017.
• Amended: F. June 10, 2019; eff. June 30, 2019.
• Amended: F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.09 Reinstatement of a License {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.09 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.09}

(1) Reinstatement of an expired license is within the discretion of the Board.

(2) A license may be reinstated by submission of the following:

(a) Application for Reinstatement with appropriate fee, including references as required under Rule 671-3-.02 ; and

(b) Documentation of the completion of twenty-four (24) continuing education hours in accordance with Board rule 671-3-.08 Renewal of License/Penalties/Continuing Education Requirements obtained within the two (2) year period prior to the date of the application.

(c) Verification of current license in another state, if applicable; and

(d) Verification of Employment verifying last date of practice in Occupational Therapy, on the Board form, completed by the employer.

(3) An applicant for reinstatement of a license who has not practiced within five (5) years must also submit the following:

(a) Form A (Supervised Clinical Experience) indicating who will provide 320 hours of supervised clinical experience with a description of the training for Board approval. Upon approval by the Board a limited permit will be issued.

(b) Upon completion of the supervised clinical experience, an applicant must submit Form B (Certification of Completion of Supervised Clinical Experience) verifying the 320 hours of clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist, pursuant to Rule 671-3-.06 , for Board approval.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Secs. 43-1-19, 43-1-25, 43-28-7, 43-28-13, 43-28-14
• History. Original Rule entitled "Restored License" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. July 1, 1982; eff. July 21, 1982.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. July 11, 1984; eff. July 31, 1984.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Apr. 14, 1988; eff. May 4, 1988.
• Amended: F. May 13, 1991; eff. June 2, 1991.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Jan. 28, 1994; eff. Feb. 17, 1994.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Dec. 2, 2002; eff. Dec. 22, 2002.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. May 4, 2005; eff. May 24, 2005.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Aug. 4, 2006; eff. Aug. 24, 2006.
• Amended: F. Mar. 25, 2008; eff. Apr. 14, 2008.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. May 25, 2010; eff. June 14, 2010.
• Repealed: New Rule entitled "Reinstatement of a License. Amended" adopted. F. Feb. 22, 2012; eff. Mar. 13, 2012.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.10 Foreign Applicant. Amended {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.10 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.10}

(1) The Board requires that foreign trained applicants successfully complete the foreign trained occupational therapy practitioner's process as is required to take the board approved examination. The Board approved examination is administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

(2) In ascertaining whether such an applicant meets such standards for licensure, the Board shall consider whether the school or course of training has been approved by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) and whether the applicant's credentials have been evaluated and accepted by NBCOT.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-28-6, 43-28-7, 43-28-9, 43-28-10
• History. Original Rule entitled "Foreign Applicant" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. May 18, 1991; eff. June 2, 1991.
• Amended: New title "Foreign Applicant. Amended." F. June 1, 2017; eff. June 21, 2017.
• Amended: F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.11 Fees {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.11 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.11}

Refer to fee schedule for appropriate fees payable to the Board. Fees may be reviewed and changed at the discretion of the Board. Any request for refund must be submitted in writing. An indebtedness to the Board caused by a returned check will be dealt with in accordance with Code Section 16-9-20 of the Criminal Code of Georgia.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-7(a)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Fees" was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.
• Amended: Rule repealed and a new Rule of same title adopted. Filed July 1, 1982; effective July 21, 1982.
• Amended: Rule repealed and a new Rule of same title adopted. Filed July 11, 1984; effective July 31, 1984.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.12 Address/Name Changes {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.12 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.12}

(1) A licensee shall notify the Board in writing immediately of any address change, to include a current and valid email address. If a pocket license is requested, the appropriate fee must accompany the request.

(2) A licensee shall immediately notify the Board in writing of any name change of the licensee. The notification to the Board of the name change shall be accompanied by a copy of the court order, marriage certificate, or other legal document verifying the change in name. If the licensee requests a pocket license after the name change, the appropriate fee for a duplicate pocket license must accompany the request.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-3, 43-28-6, 43-28-7, 43-28-12
• History. Original Rule entitled "Address/Name Changes" adopted. F. Nov. 30, 1995; eff. Dec. 20, 1995.
• Amended: F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.13 Licensure and PAM certification of veterans and military spouses {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-3-.13 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-3-.13}

(1) As used in this Rule:

(a) "Military" means the United States armed forces, including the National Guard.

(b) "Military spouse" means the spouse of a service member or transitioning service member.

(c) "OT" or "occupational therapist" means a person licensed to practice occupational therapy as defined in O.C.G.A. Chapter 28 of Title 43.

(d) "OTA" or "occupational therapy assistant" means a person licensed to assist a licensed occupational therapist in the practice of occupational therapy, as defined in O.C.G.A Chapter 28 of Title 43, under the supervision of or with the consultation of an occupational therapist whose license is in good standing.

(e) "Physical agent modalities" or "PAMs" means the occupational therapy techniques that involve and utilize physical agent modalities as stated in the provisions of O.C.G.A. §§ 43-28-3 and 43-28-8.1.

(f) "Service member" means an active or reserve member of the United States armed forces, including the National Guard.

(g) "Transitioning service member" means a member of the military or active duty status or on separation leave who is within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.

(2) Licensure by reciprocity of service members, transitioning service members, and military spouses. A service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse may qualify for a license by reciprocity where the applicant:

(a) holds a license in good standing from another state for which the training, experience, and testing substantially meet or exceed the requirements under Georgia law to obtain a license as a OT or OTA;

(b) submits to the Board a verification of licensure from the appropriate licensing agency of another state showing that the applicant's active licensure is in good standing in that state;

(c) submits documentation satisfactory to the Board which verifies the applicant's status as a service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse.

(d) submits a completed application for licensure by reciprocity on a form approved by the Board, pays the required fee, and requests a license by reciprocity.

(3) Certification for utilization of occupational therapy techniques involving physical agent modalities ("PAMs") of service members, transitioning service members, and military spouses. A service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse may qualify to obtain PAM certification from the Board if he or she:

(a) is licensed in Georgia as a OT or OTA;

(b) has obtained certification and/or training in the use of PAMs while a service member which certification and/or training substantially meets or exceeds the requirements to obtain such certification in Georgia under the provisions of O.C.G.A. §43-28-8.1 and Board rules.

(c) submits documentation satisfactory to the Board which verifies the applicant's status as a service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse.

(d) submits a completed application for PAM certification on a form approved by the Board and pays the required fee.

(4) Limited permits for service members, transitioning service members, and military spouses.

(a) A service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse may qualify for a temporary permit issued by the Board, as authorized by the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 43-28-12 , if the applicant has taken the licensing examination and the applicant has:

1. completed the education and experience requirements for licensure as stated in the Board's statute and rules or has obtained training or experience in the military while a service member which substantially meets or exceeds the requirements to obtain a license in Georgia;

2. submitted a completed application for licensure on a form approved by the Board and has paid the required fee;

3. submitted documentation satisfactory to the Board which verifies the applicant's status as a service member, transitioning service member, or military spouse.

(b) The limited permit issued by the Board shall allow the applicant to practice occupational therapy under the supervision of an occupational therapist who holds a current Georgia license, subject to the conditions of Rule 671-3-.06 :

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-34, 43-28-7, 43-28-8, 43-28-9, 43-28-10, 43-28-11, 43-28-8.1, 43-28-12, 43-28-15
• History. Original Rule entitled "Licensure and PAM certification of veterans and military spouses" adopted. F. Aug. 31, 2017; eff. Sept. 20, 2017.

Chapter 671-4 Standards of Professional Conduct

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-4-.01 Ethics of Occupational Therapy {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-4-.01 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-4-.01}

The following Code of Ethics is hereby adopted by the Board to govern and serve as a guide for the conduct of licensed Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants in the practice of occupational therapy in this state. Reviews of numerous documents and guidelines published on occupational therapy ethics, including the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (A.O.T.A.) Code of Ethics, were utilized in the preparation of the following. Each licensed Occupational Therapist and Occupational Therapy Assistant shall:

(1) Adhere to the code of ethics as adopted and published by the Board;

(2) Demonstrate concern for the safety and well-being of the recipients of their services and ensure services and fees are provided in a fair and equitable manner;

(3) Take measures to ensure each recipient's safety and avoid imposing or inflicting harm, avoid exploitation in any manner in therapeutic relationships, use professional judgment and objectivity at all times, avoid any compromise in the provision of services, and accept responsibility for professional actions;

(4) Respect recipients, assuring their rights and observing confidentiality at all times;

(5) Strive to achieve and continually maintain high standards of competence and take responsibility for competence through professional development and educational activities;

(6) Comply with laws and rules of the State of Georgia and the Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy, encourage peers to adhere to the Code of Ethics of the profession, and reporting any breaches of the Code of Ethics to the proper authority;

(7) Provide accurate and complete information when representing the profession; and

(8) Treat all colleagues and other professionals with respect, fairness, discretion and integrity.

History

• Authority: Authority O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-7
• History. Original Rule entitled "Ethics of Occupational Therapy" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. July 11, 1984; eff. July 31, 1984.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Aug. 4, 2006; eff. Aug. 24, 2006.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-4-.02 Unprofessional Conduct Defined. Amended {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-4-.02 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-4-.02}

Unprofessional conduct shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) Obtaining or attempting to obtain a license by fraud, misrepresentation, or concealment of material facts;

(b) Violating the ethics of occupational therapy as set forth by the Georgia Board of Occupational Therapy;

(c) Being grossly negligent in the practice of occupational therapy or as an occupational therapy assistant;

(d) Using drugs or intoxicating liquors to the extent that these effect the licensee's professional competence;

(e) Practicing occupational therapy after being adjudged mentally incompetent by a court of competent jurisdiction;

(f) Being convicted of a crime other than minor offenses defined as "minor misdemeanors", "violations" or "offenses" in any court if the acts for which he or she was convicted are found by the Board to have a direct bearing on whether he or she should been trusted to serve the public in the capacity of an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant;

(g) Using or holding yourself out as being able to utilize occupational therapy techniques involving physical agent modalities when not certified by the Board to use physical agent modalities;

(h) Having committed any other conduct which ordinary and reasonable individuals would consider unprofessional.

(i) Failing to adhere to the provisions of the 'Health Care Practitioners Truth and Transparency Act' as codified in O.C.G.A. § 43-1-33 .

(j) Using deceptive or misleading terms or false representations which are misleading to the public.

(k) Using advertisements which do not disclose the licensee's name, or other words or phrases authorized in O.C.G.A. § 43-28-16(b) .

(l) Failing to respond to communications from the board relevant to alleged violations of the law, rules, and policies governing the practice of occupational therapy.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-19, 43-1-25, 43-1-33, 43-28-6, 43-28-7, 43-28-8, 43-28-12, 43-28-13
• History. Original Rule entitled "Unprofessional Conduct Defined" adopted. F. July 15, 1977; eff. August 4, 1977.
• Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Mar. 28, 2006; eff. Apr. 17, 2006.
• Amended: New title "Unprofessional Conduct Defined. Amended." F. Apr. 6, 2017; eff. Apr. 26, 2017.
• Amended: F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Chapter 671-5 Procedural Rules

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-5-.01 Procedural Rules {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-5-.01 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-5-.01}

The Georgia State Board of Occupational Therapy hereby adopts by reference as its permanent rules Chapters 295-3 through 295-13, and any future amendments thereto, Rules and Regulations of the Office of the Joint Secretary, State Examining Boards, relating to procedure for Hearings before the several Examining Boards.

History

• Authority: Ga. L. 1976, pp. 993, 997; Ga. Code Ann., Sec. 84-7105
• History. Original Rule was filed on July 15, 1977; effective August 4, 1977.

Chapter 671-6 Requirements

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-6-.01 Definitions {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-6-.01 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-6-.01}

Physical agent modalities means treatment techniques as specified in Code Section 43-28-3 - (9).

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-3(9)
• History. Original Rule entitled "Definitions" adopted. F. Nov. 20, 1991; eff. Dec. 10, 1991.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-6-.02 Requirements for Use of Physical Agent Modalities {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-6-.02 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-6-.02}

(1) Any occupational therapist and occupational therapy assistant who wishes to utilize O.T. techniques involving physical agent modalities, must document, successful completion of a minimum of 90 contact hours of instruction or training approved by the Board which covers:

(a) Principles of physics related to specific properties of light, water, temperature, sound, or electricity, as indicated by selected modality;

(b) Physiological, Neurophysiological, and Electrophysiological, changes, as indicated, which occur as a result of the application of selected modality;

(c) The response of normal and abnormal tissue to the application of the modality;

(d) Indications and contra indications related to the selection and application of the modality;

(e) The guidelines for treatment or administration of the modality within the philosophical framework of occupational therapy;

(f) The guidelines for educating the patient including instructing the patient to the process and possible outcomes of treatment, including risks and benefits;

(g) Safety rules and precautions related to the selected modality;

(h) Methods of documenting the effectiveness of immediate and longterm effects of treatment; and

(i) Characteristics of the equipment including safe operation, adjustment, and care of the equipment.

(2) No less than 36 contact hours must be directly related to the specific theories and practical application of physical agent modalities.

(3) Acceptable instruction or training shall include any activity relevant to the practice of physical agent modalities in occupational therapy and may include formal academic education, conferences, workshops, seminars, web based instructions, and in-service education.

(4) Each occupational therapist and occupational therapy assistant is responsible for submitting documentation of training. Documentation shall include:

(a) Identification of the specific course or training where the therapist learned content related to each subject area (a-i);

(b) Proof of 90 hours of instruction or training. This may be reported by:

1. A statement of attendance or a copy of the certificate of completion, either of which that shows the title of program, hours of the program, date the program was taught, the signature of a designated program official, and a brochure or program outline; or,

2. An official grade report/transcript and course outline to verify academic education.

(c) Additional documentation may be requested by the Board, if deemed necessary.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 43-1-3, 43-1-25, 43-28-3, 43-28-6, 43-28-7, 43-28-8, 43-28-12
• History. Original Rule entitled "Requirements" adopted. F. Nov. 20, 1991; eff. Dec. 10, 1991.
• Amended: F. Jan. 20, 2015; eff. Feb. 9, 2015.
• Note: Correction of non-substantive typographical error in sub-paragraph (1)(c), "nor mal" corrected to "normal"; sub-paragraph (4)(a), "w here" corrected to "where", as requested by the Agency. Effective Oct. 11, 2016.
• Amended: New title, "Requirements for Use of Physical Agent Modalities." F. June 25, 2026; eff. July 15, 2026.

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-6-.03 Enforcement {#sec-ga.-comp.-r.-regs.-r.-671-6-.03 omnilex-key=us-ga-regs-official--department-671--Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. r. 671-6-.03}

(1) Any licensed occupational therapist or licensed occupational therapy assistant who is not certified by the Board to use physical agent modalities and who uses the modalities for any purpose in the practice of occupational therapy is in violation of O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-8.1 and upon substantiation thereof may have the license disciplined.

(2) Any licensed occupational therapist or licensed occupational therapy assistant who is certified by the board to use physical agent modalities and who uses such modalities for purposes other than within the philosophical framework of occupational therapy is in violation of O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-8.1 and upon substantiation thereof may have the license disciplined.

(3) Any licensed occupational therapy assistant certified to use physical agent modalities under this rule may only use those modalities when supervised by a licensed occupational therapist certified to use physical agent modalities under this rule. Any OTA who uses physical agent modalities without the personal and direct involvement of the licensed occupational therapist certified to use those modalities is in violation of O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-8.1 and upon substantiation thereof may have the license disciplined.

History

• Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 43-28-8.1
• History. Original Rule entitled "Enforcement" adopted. F. Nov. 20, 1991; eff. Dec. 10, 1991.