National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc (NBCOT) is a national not-for-profit certification body that credentials occupational therapy professionals in the United States. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland, it validates professional competence through competency-based examinations and ongoing professional development. Its certification programmes are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

NBCOT administers two principal credentials: the OTR Certification (Occupational Therapist Registered), an examination and credential for aspiring occupational therapists that validates professional competence, ethical conduct and public safety; and the COTA Certification (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant) for occupational therapy assistants. More than 220,000 occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants are certified nationwide.

The organisation's work spans test development and examination administration, competency validation and assessment, and evidence-based certification standards. Candidates are supported by the NBCOT StudyPack, a set of study tools for the certification journey, while certified professionals use NBCOT Navigator, an award-winning platform for continuing professional development.

NBCOT describes its mission as protecting the public through validation of the essential competencies required for safe and effective practice. As a not-for-profit, its activities centre on excellence in professional credentialing, evidence-based standards and continuous professional development across the healthcare, occupational therapy and education sectors.