By using this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. To find out more visit our privacy policy.
Licensure is managed by individual state regulatory boards and is required to practice as a PT or work as a PTA in the United States.
Licensure is required in order to practice as a physical therapist or work as a physical therapist assistant in the United States.
You must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam, which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
Recommended Content
May 1, 2020
The NPTE is administered by FSBPT. You must pass the NPTE if you are seeking to become a licensed PT or PTA in the United States.
May 1, 2020
Licensure is required in order to practice as a PT or work as a PTA in the United States. Licensure is managed by individual state regulatory boards.
May 30, 2020 / Website
FSBPT maintains a list of licensing authorities with links to each state's or jurisdiction’s practice act.
Aug 1, 2019 / Article
The compact creates a way for PTs and PTAs to practice or work in multiple states.
Aug 1, 2022 / Feature
The PT Compact has streamlined the process for PTs and PTAs to serve patients across state borders.
Additional Licensure Content
Jul 23, 2025 / Members Only
Jun 3, 2025 / News
May 7, 2025 / Article
The House will consider seven amendments to the Bylaws of the American Physical Therapy Association.
Apr 9, 2025 / News
Two APTA-supported bills from Congress' last session are back for consideration: making Medicare telehealth provisions permanent for PT services and streamlining the background check process for participation in the PT Compact.
Aug 5, 2020 / Podcast
T.J. Cantwell of FSBPT answers some common questions about the PT Compact, including requirements for eligibility, what happens if you move, and much more.
Jun 3, 2020 / Podcast
Scott Giles, PT, DPT, wants to make sure that you're not only prepared to take the NPTE, but you're over prepared.
Jun 1, 2020 / Column
An increasing number of states are joining the Physical Therapy Compact.
May 8, 2020 / News
Now available: a CMS resource verifying the agency’s recognition of interstate license compacts.
Feb 25, 2020 / News
CMS says that PTs and PTAs with Physical Therapy Compact privileges are considered valid license-holders for purposes of meeting Medicare licensure requirements.