Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Assistant Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist assistant in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
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
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$63,410 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island 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 RI Department of Health~Health Professions Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $63,410, Physical Therapist Assistants in Rhode Island earn 3% below the national median of $65,510. Rhode Island ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$63,410Hourly estimate
$30.493% below national median
Difference: -$2,100
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Assistant Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $63,410 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $77,780 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $74,120 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
3 Capitol Hill, Room 104, Providence, RI, 02908
Phone: 4012222828
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $80,530 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist Assistant in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physical Therapist Assistant licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Physical Therapist Assistant salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapist Assistants in Rhode Island is $63,410. Salaries range from $57,850 (10th percentile) to $75,770 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist Assistant salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Physical Therapist Assistants in Rhode Island earn 3% below the national median of $65,510, with a state median of $63,410.
How many Physical Therapist Assistants work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 550 Physical Therapist Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist Assistant license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.
How often do you renew a Physical Therapist Assistant license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.