Physical Therapist License Guide 2026

Physical Therapist licensing in 2026 is regulated state-by-state: pre-license education requirements vary by state, the exam is most commonly administered by FSBPT (NPTE) — Prometric, and published first-attempt pass rates are not consistently published. A background check is required in 12 of 12 states with verified data.

By The LicenseFig Editorial Team · independent editorial research project

Diagnoses and treats movement and mobility disorders. Requires a DPT and the NPTE administered by FSBPT.

National overview — Physical Therapist at a glance

State-by-state essentials (top verified states)

How to get a Physical Therapist license — step by step

1. 1

   Meet the basic requirements

   Minimum age is 18 in every state with a published figure. A criminal background check is required in 12 of 12 verified states.

2. 2

   Complete pre-license education

   Approved training hours are not published in our verified dataset — check your state board for the current figure.

3. 3

   Register and pass the exam

   The exam is most often administered by FSBPT (NPTE) — Prometric. Schedule through the vendor portal after your education is reported.

4. 4

   Pay fees and submit your application

   Expect an exam fee of $485 and an application fee of $30–300. Submit any required background check results with your application.

5. 5

   Maintain your license

   The most common renewal cycle is every 2 years. Track continuing-education deadlines so your license never lapses.

Frequently asked questions

This guide is informational and not legal advice. Requirements change frequently — verify all figures with your state licensing board (data retrieved 2026-08-20).