To practice physical therapy in the United States, every physical therapist and physical therapist assistant must go through a state-specific licensure process. Whether you’re a recent graduate, applying from another state, or received your physical therapy education abroad, you need to understand the licensing steps before applying for a position.

In this 2025 guide, I’m breaking down physical therapy license requirements by state, how the PT Compact works, what to expect during the exam and renewal process, and how Flagstar Rehab can support you every step of the way.

Understanding Physical Therapy Licensure in the U.S.

What is a Physical Therapy License?

A physical therapy license is a state-issued authorization required to legally practice physical therapy or work as a physical therapist assistant (PTA). Each state board manages its own licensure requirements and rules. Without a license, you cannot legally provide physical therapy services.

The National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)

To receive your initial licensure, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This exam is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). The NPTE exam includes 225 questions and must be completed within a five-hour time limit. It’s offered on fixed testing dates throughout the year and can be taken up to three times within 12 months.

Passing the NPTE is a national physical therapy requirement and part of every state’s licensure process. The exam fee is $485, with an additional Prometric testing center fee. This exam is required for PTs and PTAs.

General Licensure Requirements for PTs and PTAs

Every state has its own process, but most require the following:

Education Requirements

• Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program
• Completion of a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) for PTs or a PTA degree for assistants
• Submission of official transcripts as part of your completed application

Application Process and Documentation

• Completed application forms and required fees
• Proof of identity (government-issued ID or passport)
• License verification if applying by endorsement
• Any additional documents required by the state board

Background Check and Fingerprinting

• Most states require fingerprinting and a background check
• This is done through state agencies or the FBI
• Fees vary and are typically paid separately

Jurisprudence Exams

• Tests your knowledge of the state’s laws and regulations
• May be free, low-cost, or provided by FSBPT for a fee
• Passing is mandatory for most states

Temporary Permits and Provisional Licenses

Exam Temporary Permits

Some states offer temporary permits for recent graduates who are waiting to take the NPTE. These allow you to work under direct supervision until you receive your exam results.

• Duration varies (usually 90–180 days)
• Permit is revoked immediately if the applicant fails the NPTE

Provisional Licenses

Provisional licenses may also be available for applicants who meet all licensure requirements except for NPTE results or final approval.

• May require active supervision
• Not available in every state

Licensure by Endorsement

If you’re already licensed in one state and are moving to another, you may apply through licensure by endorsement.

Application by Endorsement

• Requires license verification from your current state
• Often includes submission of education documents and NPTE results
• Must meet the new state’s continuing education and jurisprudence exam requirements

Unencumbered License and Good Standing

• You must hold an unencumbered license in good standing
• Any disciplinary actions or license restrictions can delay or block your application

The Physical Therapy Licensure Compact (PT Compact)

The PT Compact is an agreement between participating states that allows licensed PTs and PTAs to practice in multiple states without needing a separate license for each.

How the Physical Therapy Compact Works

• You must reside in a compact member state
• You must have an active, unencumbered license in your home state
• Compact privilege is granted by purchasing a compact privilege to practice in other compact member states

Benefits of the PT Compact

• Faster job placement across multiple states
• Ability to provide telehealth services across state lines
• Reduced application processing time

2025 Compact Member States

• Over 30 states, including Texas, Florida, Arizona, and North Carolina
• Full list and updates available at ptcompact.org

Foreign-Educated Applicants

If you completed your physical therapy education outside of the U.S., you must meet additional requirements.

Credential Evaluation and English Proficiency

• Education must be reviewed by an FSBPT-approved credentialing agency
• Programs must be equivalent to U.S. CAPTE-accredited programs
• If education was not in English, a TOEFL score may be required

Clinical Practice and Supervision

• Some states may require supervised clinical hours
• You may need to pass a state jurisprudence exam as well

Continuing Education and License Renewal

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements

Licensed PTs and PTAs must complete professional development activities to maintain licensure.

• Most states require 20–40 hours per renewal period
• Topics may include ethics, cultural competence, and pain management

Renewal Schedule

• Licenses expire on a set date, often based on the licensee’s birthday or birth month
• Some states renew in odd years or on a fixed annual/biannual cycle

PT License Requirements by State

Notes:

• PT Compact Member = State participates in the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact, allowing licensed PTs to obtain compact privilege to work in other compact member states.
• Temporary Permit / Provisional License = Issued for recent graduates or applicants awaiting NPTE results. Most require direct supervision and expire automatically upon a failing score.
• Continuing Education Hours = Professional development activities required to maintain an active license.
• License Expiry Schedule = Based on the licensee’s birth month, licensee’s birthday, or set odd/even years depending on the state.

How Flagstar Rehab Supports Licensing and Job Placement

At Flagstar Rehab, we assist therapists with the entire licensure process so they can focus on practicing. Whether you’re applying for initial licensure, moving to a new state, or renewing your license, we provide resources and guidance.

What We Help With

• Application process support
• License verification and document preparation
• Compact privilege activation
• CE tracking and reminders

For Physical Therapists and PTAs

• Job placement in PT compact states
• Guidance for applicants with foreign education
• Supervised placements for recent graduates under temporary permits

Conclusion

Licensing requirements for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants vary by state, but the process always starts with meeting education requirements, passing the NPTE, and completing any state-specific steps such as jurisprudence exams or background checks. If you’re a new applicant, already licensed in another state, or educated internationally, understanding the full licensure process is key to starting or continuing your career.

At Flagstar Rehab, we work with licensed PTs and PTAs across the country. We provide guidance on state licensure, help with compact privilege, and support job placement in compact and non-compact states. Whether you’re applying for your first license or planning to work in multiple states, we’re here to help make the process easier and faster.

If you’re ready to apply, need help verifying your license, or want to explore job opportunities in your state or beyond, contact our team today.

Read these next:

• How many years does it take to become a therapist
• How Much Physical Therapists Earn
• How to find physical therapist jobs in New York

Frequently Asked Questions

Do physical therapists have to be licensed in each state?

Yes. Every physical therapist and physical therapist assistant must hold a license to practice in each state where they provide physical therapy services. If you are licensed in a compact member state and meet the eligibility requirements, you may apply for compact privilege through the PT Compact. This allows you to practice physical therapy in other compact states without obtaining a separate license for each one.

How long does it take to get a PT license in Washington?

In Washington, the average processing time to receive a physical therapy license is about four to six weeks. This includes submitting a completed application, passing the NPTE exam, completing a background check, and passing the state’s jurisprudence exam. Delays can occur if required documents, such as official transcripts or fingerprint results, are incomplete or late.

What are the requirements to be a physical therapist in New Jersey?

To become a licensed PT in New Jersey, you need to graduate from an accredited program, pass the national physical therapy examination, complete the state’s jurisprudence assessment module, and submit to a criminal background check with fingerprinting. You must also pay all state board application fees and meet any additional documentation requests before receiving full licensure.

What states are PT Compact states?

As of 2025, more than 30 states participate in the PT Compact. These participating states include Texas, Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington. If you hold an unencumbered license in a compact member state and live there, you may qualify to practice in other compact member states using compact privilege. The list of current member states is maintained at ptcompact.org.