How to Get a Physical Therapist License in Pennsylvania
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Quick Facts
Education
4,500 hrs
Total Cost
$88,000
Governing Body
Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy
Pennsylvania is a varied market ranging from Philadelphia's urban core to rural communities, making it an excellent place to start a career as a physical therapist. Licensing in Pennsylvania is overseen by the Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy. The process requires 4500 hours of pre-license education and costs between $87,500 and $88,500 in total. You'll need to pass the NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination (administered by Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy) with a score of at least 70%.
At 4500 hours, Pennsylvania has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 4500 hours. Budget between $87,500 and $88,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring physical therapists complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
PennsylvaniaPhysical Therapist License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 4500 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $485 |
| Governing Body | Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Physical Therapist License in Pennsylvania
- 1
Earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Degree
Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program. DPT programs require a bachelor's degree for admission and take 3 years to complete.
Time: 7 years (4-year bachelor's + 3-year DPT) Cost: $350 - 2
Pass the NPTE
Register and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) administered by the FSBPT. The exam covers musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and integumentary systems. The exam fee is $485.
Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule Cost: $485 - 3
Pass the Jurisprudence Exam (if required)
Many states require a jurisprudence exam on state-specific PT practice laws. Check the Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy for your state's requirements.
Time: 1-2 weeks - 4
Apply for State Licensure
Submit your application to the Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy. Include NPTE scores, DPT transcripts, and the application fee of $50.
Time: 2-6 weeks for processing Cost: $50 - 5
Begin Your Physical Therapy Career
Once licensed, you can practice physical therapy in Pennsylvania. PTs work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, sports medicine, home health, and private practice.
Time: Immediate once licensed
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination is administered by Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: Pennsylvania requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Pennsylvania accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. .
How Pennsylvania Compares
Pennsylvania requires 4500 hours of pre-license education for physical therapists. This is close to the national average of 4500 hours. The average total cost in Pennsylvania is around $88,000, compared to the national average of $85,360.
How Much Does a Physical Therapist License Cost in Pennsylvania?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $485 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $87,500 - $88,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education:30 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $50
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 4500 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Maximize your clinical rotations: Your DPT clinical rotations expose you to different practice settings. Request placements in areas that interest you — orthopedic, neurological, pediatric, or sports PT — to discover your specialty and build connections.
- Use FSBPT practice exams and study tools: The FSBPT offers official NPTE practice exams and the PEAT tool. Scoring 600+ on the PEAT strongly predicts passing the NPTE. Budget 2-3 months of dedicated study after graduation.
- Budget approximately $88,500 for your Pennsylvania license: This includes $50 in application fees, $485 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $50 in renewal fees every 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a physical therapist license in Pennsylvania?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (4500 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a physical therapist license in Pennsylvania?
The total cost ranges from $87,500 to $88,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($50), and the exam fee ($485).
Can I get a Pennsylvania physical therapist license with a criminal record?
The Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a physical therapist in Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 4500 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Pennsylvania?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Pennsylvania State Board of Physical Therapy website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
Professional Associations & Resources
Connect with these national organizations for career resources, networking, and continuing education.
Compare With Other States
Physical Therapist in Other States
From Our Blog
10 Highest Paying Licensed Professions in 2026
The 10 highest paying licensed professions in 2026, ranked by median salary. See education requirements, costs, and best states for each career.
Cheapest States for Professional Licensing (2026)
Which states have the lowest professional licensing costs? We ranked all 50 states by average licensing cost across 49 professions.