Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Athletic Trainer Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for athletic trainer in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Athletic Trainer in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
Certification: Certification may substitute for license requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS An applicant for an athletic trainer certificate shall possess one of the following qualifications: (1) Have met the athletic training curriculum of a college or university approved by the board and give proof of graduation and be certified by the National Trainer's Association
- however, the board may grant an exception using the following criteria: (a) graduate of an accredited college or university
- and (b) show proof of one thousand five hundred (1,500) hours as an apprentice athletic trainer
- (2) Hold a certificate or a degree in physical therapy and have completed the following: (a) a basic athletic training course
- (b) a first aid and a cardiopulmonary resuscitation course
- (c) a nutrition course
- and (d) have spent a minimum of six hundred (600) clock hours working under the direct supervision of an approved athletic trainer.
- 7
The board may waive or alter the hour requirements if the applicant can demonstrate equivalent experience
- or (3) have completed at least four (4) years beyond the secondary school level, while either an undergraduate or graduate student, as an apprentice athletic trainer at a college or university under the direct supervision of an athletic trainer approved by the board.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- certificate shall possess one of the following qualifications: (1) Have met the athletic training curriculum of a college or university approved by the board and give proof of gradua
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Medical Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$51,550 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Kentucky eligibility requirements for Athletic Trainer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS An applicant for an athletic trainer certificate shall possess one of the following qualifications: (1) Have met...).
- 6. Submit the application to Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Medical Licensure and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $51,550, Athletic Trainers in Kentucky earn 14% below the national median of $60,250. Kentucky ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$51,550Hourly estimate
$24.7814% below national median
Difference: -$8,700
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationAthletic Trainer Salary Ranking
#48 of 50 statesfor Athletic Trainer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New Jersey | $77,350 |
| #2 | California | $74,150 |
| #3 | Hawaii | $70,930 |
| #4 | Connecticut | $67,090 |
| #5 | Texas | $66,430 |
Nearby States Comparison
Athletic Trainer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $51,550 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $57,750 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $60,900 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $45,140 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $58,200 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $54,040 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 3 months |
| Missouri | $54,340 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $62,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Medical Licensure
310 Whittington Parkway, Suite 1B, Louisville, KY, 40222
Phone: 5024297150
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Athletic Trainer in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Athletic Trainers in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Athletic Trainers.
What education do you need to become a Athletic Trainer in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Athletic Trainer licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Athletic Trainer salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Athletic Trainers in Kentucky is $51,550. Salaries range from $42,000 (10th percentile) to $64,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Athletic Trainer salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Athletic Trainers in Kentucky earn 14% below the national median of $60,250, with a state median of $51,550.
How many Athletic Trainers work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 640 Athletic Trainers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Athletic Trainer license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Athletic Trainers in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Medical Licensure. Review agency details at http://kbml.ky.gov/.
How often do you renew a Athletic Trainer license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.