How to Become a Physical Therapist in Texas
In Texas, a Physical Therapist license typically requires a 225-question national plus state exam, and a $485 exam fee.
Diagnoses and treats movement and mobility disorders. Requires a DPT and the NPTE administered by FSBPT. Requirements change — always confirm with Texas Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners before paying.
Licensing steps in Texas
- 1Meet the basic requirements
Age and background check rules vary — confirm with the state board.
- 2Complete pre-license education
Required training hours are not published here — check with the state board for the current figure.
- 3Register and pass the exam
The exam is administered by FSBPT (NPTE) — Prometric with a 300-minute time limit.
- 4Pay fees and get licensed
Exam fee $485 · application $190 · license $190
- 5Stay current
License renews every 2 years with 30 hours of continuing education.
Physical Therapist requirements — Texas at a glance
| Education hours | — |
| Exam vendor | FSBPT (NPTE) — Prometric |
| Questions (national/state) | 225 / — |
| Passing score | — |
| Exam fee | $485 |
| Application fee | $190 |
| License fee | $190 |
| First-attempt pass rate | not published |
| Retake rule | — |
| Renewal | every 2 years · 30 CE |
| Reciprocity | Yes — PT Compact member; TX Jurisprudence Assessment Module (JAM) required each renewal ($48) |
Official source: Texas Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners ↗
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a Physical Therapist license in Texas?
After completing the required education, most candidates need 4-12 weeks of study before the exam. Total timeline depends on scheduling.
How hard is the Physical Therapist exam in Texas?
Official first-attempt pass rates are not published by Texas; check the state board.
What does the Physical Therapist license cost in Texas?
The exam fee is $485, the application fee is $190, and the license fee is $190
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Texas?
Reciprocity: Yes — PT Compact member; TX Jurisprudence Assessment Module (JAM) required each renewal ($48).
Plan your Physical Therapist licensing in Texas
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Requirements change frequently — verify all figures with Texas Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners (retrieved 2026-08-20).