If you're exploring travel occupational therapist jobs, you've likely heard about the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact (OT Compact). For years, one of the biggest hurdles for travel OTs was obtaining licenses in multiple states before starting an assignment.
Today, the OT Compact is making it easier for eligible Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants to expand their opportunities across the country. As more states join the compact and become operational, travel therapists have more flexibility than ever before.
Whether you're planning your first travel assignment or looking to maximize your career options, understanding the OT Compact can help you prepare for future opportunities.
What Is the OT Compact?
The Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact allows eligible Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants to obtain a privilege to practice in participating states without obtaining a separate full license in each state.
Think of it as a streamlined pathway that helps qualified therapists practice across multiple states more efficiently.
For travel Occupational Therapists, that means:
- Access to more travel assignments
- Less licensing paperwork
- Greater flexibility when choosing destinations
- Faster access to new opportunities
- Simplified career planning
Recent OT Compact Expansion
The OT Compact has seen significant growth in recent years, helping increase mobility for travel therapists.
Recent additions and milestones include:
- Kansas joining the compact in 2026
- North Dakota joining in 2025
- Rhode Island joining in 2024
- Vermont joining in 2024
- Minnesota joining in 2024
- Tennessee becoming operational for compact privileges in 2026
This continued expansion is excellent news for therapists who enjoy taking assignments in different regions throughout the year.
States Currently Issuing OT Compact Privileges
One important distinction many therapists don't realize is that not every compact member state is operational yet.
As of 2026, the following states are actively issuing and accepting OT Compact privileges:
- Indiana
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Ohio
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- West Virginia
Additional states are actively working through implementation and are expected to become operational over time.
How the OT Compact Benefits Travel Occupational Therapists
One of the biggest advantages of travel therapy is the ability to go where opportunities are strongest.
Maybe you've always wanted to:
- Work in the mountains of Colorado
- Spend a contract in North Carolina
- Explore the Pacific Northwest
- Experience life in Tennessee
- Travel through the Mid-Atlantic region
The OT Compact helps make those opportunities more accessible by reducing licensing barriers.
For travel OTs, that means more flexibility and potentially faster access to assignments when opportunities arise.
How Do You Get an OT Compact Privilege?
Step 1: Hold an Active OT License
You must hold an active Occupational Therapy license in your home state.
Step 2: Reside in a Compact State
Your primary state of residence must be a participating OT Compact state.
Step 3: Meet Eligibility Requirements
You must be in good standing and meet all compact requirements.
Step 4: Complete Required Background Checks
Many states require criminal background checks before issuing compact privileges.
Step 5: Purchase Your Compact Privilege
Once approved, you'll be able to obtain privileges to practice in participating states.
How Long Does It Take?
One of the biggest questions travel therapists ask is how far in advance they should begin planning.
If you already meet eligibility requirements and have the necessary documentation ready, obtaining compact privileges is often much faster than obtaining a traditional state license.
We recommend starting the process several weeks before you plan to begin traveling. This allows time for:
- Verifying eligibility
- Completing background checks
- Gathering documentation
- Working with recruiters
- Evaluating assignment opportunities
Best OT Compact States for Travel Occupational Therapist Jobs
Some compact states are especially attractive for travel therapists because of healthcare demand, lifestyle opportunities, and location flexibility.
Popular destinations include:
- Virginia
- Tennessee
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Colorado
- Washington
- Arizona
These states offer a mix of urban healthcare systems, outdoor recreation, coastal destinations, mountain communities, and strong demand for therapy professionals.
Travel Occupational Therapist Jobs With Anders Group
At Anders Group, we understand that travel therapy is about more than simply finding your next contract.
It's about building a career and lifestyle that aligns with your goals.
That's why we put relationships first.
Our recruiters take the time to understand:
- Your career goals
- Your preferred settings
- Your desired locations
- Your schedule preferences
- Your long-term plans
Whether you're looking for assignments in compact states or planning your first travel OT adventure, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Explore Current Anders Group Opportunities
Ready to Start Your Next Travel OT Assignment?
The OT Compact is creating more opportunities than ever for Occupational Therapists to explore new destinations and expand their careers.
Whether you're looking for your first assignment or planning your next adventure, Anders Group can help you find opportunities that fit your goals.
