Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Before applying for an endorsement license as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in Washington, it's crucial to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. Visit the official website of the Washington State Department of Health's Health Systems Quality Assurance (HSQA) division to review the complete set of eligibility criteria for COTA endorsement licenses. You can find the specific requirements for education, examination, and experience on their website.
Step 2: Submit Application
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, it's time to submit your application. The HSQA division provides an online platform called the Washington Health Professions License Application (WPLA) where you can conveniently complete and submit your application. To access the WPLA, visit the HSQA's Online Services page and follow the instructions provided. Be sure to double-check all the information you enter to avoid any delays in the processing of your application.
Step 3: Provide Verification
As part of the endorsement process, you'll need to provide verification of your current certification as a COTA. This verification must be sent directly from the certification authority to the HSQA division. The specific instructions and necessary forms can be found on the HSQA's website under the 'Verification of Certification' section. Make sure to carefully follow the outlined procedures to ensure a smooth verification process.
Step 4: Pay Fees
To complete your endorsement license application, you'll need to pay the required fees. The fee structure and payment methods are outlined on the HSQA's website under the 'Fees' section. Please note that these fees are subject to change, so it's essential to refer to the official website for the most up-to-date information. The HSQA accepts various forms of payment, including credit card and electronic check.
Step 5: Await Review and Approval
After submitting your application, verification, and payment, you'll need to exercise patience while the HSQA reviews your documents and assesses your eligibility. The review process can take several weeks, so we recommend frequently checking the status of your application on the HSQA's Online Services page. Once your application is approved, you'll receive your endorsement license via mail or electronically through the online portal.
Additional Resources
To facilitate your licensing process further, here are some additional resources you may find helpful:
1. Washington State Department of Health's HSQA Website: [link](https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/OccupationalTherapistAssistant)
2. Washington Health Professions License Application (WPLA): [link](https://wa.health.wa.gov/WPLA/Default.aspx)
3. Verification of Certification Forms: [link](https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/Pubs/669057.pdf)