If you’re a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant in New York, staying on top of your license renewal isn’t just paperwork; it’s what protects your ability to practice physical therapy legally. Missing your license expiration date can stop you from working, cost you extra in late fees, and even put your career at risk with disciplinary action.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the renewal process in New York, including deadlines, renewal fees, continuing education requirements, and step-by-step instructions to keep your active license in good standing.
Physical therapy license renewal in New York is the process required to keep your credentials up to date and legally practice physical therapy. Licenses must be renewed every three years, with the expiration date tied to your birth month.
To renew, you must complete a renewal application, pay a renewal fee, and fulfill continuing education requirements. Failing to renew on time can lead to a lapsed license, preventing you from practicing and possibly resulting in disciplinary action. Renewing your license on time ensures you can continue working without interruption.
Renewing your physical therapy license is essential to maintaining your ability to practice physical therapy legally in New York. An active license is required to provide care, bill for services, and maintain professional credibility.
Renewal ensures that you stay compliant with state regulations, meet continuing education standards, and avoid disciplinary action. By renewing on time, you ensure your career remains uninterrupted and that you’re equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to deliver the best care to your patients.
| Topic | What you need to know |
|---|---|
| Registration cycle | 3-year registration period; first cycle may be prorated to your birth month |
| Expiration date | Your registration aligns with your month of birth (renew by the last day of that month) |
| Online licensing system | Renew in the final 5 months using OP’s online licensing system (credit card payment; PIN from mailed notice) |
| CE / continuing competency | 36 contact hours each 3-year period (PT and PTA) |
| Renewal fee (PT) | $224 total each re-registration (includes $45 CE assessment line + $179 registration) |
| Renewal fee (PTA) | $103 total each re-registration (includes $45 CE assessment line + $58 registration) |
| Inactive status | You can inactivate during renewal; you cannot practice while inactive |
| Proof of CE | Keep CE records for 6 years; do not upload with your renewal unless audited |
Note: New York does not tie renewals to an even-numbered year cycle. Your expiration date is aligned to your birth month on a 3-year cycle.
For more information, visit the NYSED Questions & Answers for Physical Therapists
If you miss the expiration date:
Use these figures when you complete your renewal application:
| Role | Re-registration (renewal) fee | Limited Permit fee (if applicable) | Where it comes from |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapist (PT) | $224 total (CE line $45 + Registration $179) | $70 | OP Fees Chart |
| Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) | $103 total (CE line $45 + Registration $58) | $50 | OP Fees Chart |
Note: Payments by credit card are accepted through the online licensing system; paper checks are for other transactions/forms only.
You must meet the following requirements every three years to keep an active license:
Practicing while unregistered can lead to disciplinary action. The Department publishes enforcement actions, and the Education Law defines professional misconduct. Renew on time and avoid any gap.
Keep these on file for 6 years in case of audit or board request:
Note: Do not upload CE proof with your renewal unless the Department asks.
Weeks prior to expiration, complete the following requirements:
| Item | PT | PTA | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Re-registration (renewal) fee | $224 | $103 | Every 3 years |
| CE hours required | 36 | 36 | Every 3 years |
| Renewal window | Final 5 months before expiration date | Final 5 months | Final 5 months |
| Inactive status option | Yes (no practice while inactive) | Yes | During renewal |
Source: OP Fees Chart
Renewing your physical therapy license on time is critical to maintaining your right to practice in New York. By understanding your license expiration date, staying ahead of continuing education requirements, and completing the renewal process promptly, you can avoid costly penalties and disciplinary action. Don’t risk your career by letting your license lapse. Start the renewal process today and keep your license active. If you’re looking for new opportunities after renewing, Flagstar Rehab is here to connect you with top healthcare facilities across the country.
Now that your license renewal is complete, it’s the perfect time to explore new career opportunities. Flagstar Rehab connects licensed physical therapists and physical therapist assistants with top healthcare facilities across the country. Whether you’re looking for full-time, part-time, or contract positions, we’ll help you find the right fit.
Contact Flagstar Rehab today and let us help you advance your career with trusted job placements nationwide.
No. New York does not use an even-numbered year cycle. Your expiration date is tied to your birth month on a 3-year cycle.
New York supports online renewal for the final 5 months of your cycle. Paper processes exist for other changes, but online renewal is standard and faster.
Use the OP online verification tool. Employers can check your status the same way.
Plan your CE and profile checks 8–12 weeks prior to your expiration date so you can complete the steps without rushing. (Online renewal access opens in the final 5 months.)