State Licensure
The ATCBE Exam for State Licensure
Individuals seeking art therapy/creative arts licensure in Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, and Washington D.C. use the ATCBE for their state licensure efforts. Candidates for licensure must apply to take the ATCBE via the MYATCB portal. However, it’s crucial to remember that before applying, candidates must have a letter of authorization from the state they are taking the exam. Without this state authorization, the ATCB cannot process any state licensure exam application, which could significantly delay the licensure process.
Washington DC, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, and New York Exam Pathways
EXAM FOR STATE LICENSURE
Special Examination Accommodations for State Examinees
If you plan to test for state licensure and need testing accommodations, you must contact your state licensure board for information and approvals. The ATCB cannot provide accommodations without permission from your state licensure board.
The Difference Between Certificates, Credentials and Licensure
Certificate
Completion of a course or program
Educational institutions, companies, organizations
Exam Required:
No
Continuing Education Required:
No, but may count for CE credits
Legally Required:
No
Credential
Verifies advanced skills in a field
Issued by:
Private organizations, industry associations
Exam Required:
Yes, usually
Continuing Education Required:
Varies
Legally Required:
Sometimes, depending on industry
Certification
Verification of expertise and industry standards
Issued by:
Professional associations, certifying bodies
Exam Required:
Yes
Continuing Education Required:
Yes, to maintain certification
Legally Required:
Sometimes (depends on the field)
License
Legal authority to work in a regulated profession
Issued by:
Government agencies, licensing boards
Exam Required:
Yes
Continuing Education Required:
Varies by profession and state
Legally Required:
Yes, for regulated professions
Did you know
The requirements for state licensure in art therapy are similar to the ATCB’s requirements for becoming a Registered Art Therapist (ATR). Candidates seeking state licensure can use their ATCBE exam scores for licensure and also become board-certified, but they need to hold the ATR credential to do so. Candidates should consider becoming an ATR-P while obtaining the required supervision for state licensure, as this supervision can be counted towards qualifying for the ATR. Pursuing both paths simultaneously allows candidates to meet state licensure requirements and attain credentials and board certifications recognized nationally and internationally.