Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Assistant Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist assistant in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physical Therapist Assistant in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$64,630 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Physical Therapist Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $64,630, Physical Therapist Assistants in Illinois earn 1% below the national median of $65,510. Illinois ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$64,630Hourly estimate
$31.071% below national median
Difference: -$880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Assistant Salary Ranking
#20 of 50 statesfor Physical Therapist Assistant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $79,410 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $77,780 |
| #3 | Alaska | $76,310 |
| #4 | Texas | $76,250 |
| #5 | New Jersey | $74,780 |
Nearby States Comparison
Physical Therapist Assistant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $64,630 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $61,890 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $60,720 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $60,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 21 years |
| Kentucky | $62,400 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $62,890 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | 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
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $301,580 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $62,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $84,520 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist Assistant in Illinois?
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 Physical Therapist Assistants in Illinois?
Illinois lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Physical Therapist Assistants.
What education do you need to become a Physical Therapist Assistant in Illinois?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physical Therapist Assistant licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Physical Therapist Assistant salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapist Assistants in Illinois is $64,630. Salaries range from $51,560 (10th percentile) to $86,310 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist Assistant salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Physical Therapist Assistants in Illinois earn 1% below the national median of $65,510, with a state median of $64,630.
How many Physical Therapist Assistants work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 4,320 Physical Therapist Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist Assistant license to Illinois 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 Physical Therapist Assistants in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.
How often do you renew a Physical Therapist Assistant license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.