Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Assistant Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist assistant in Washington, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physical Therapist Assistant in Washington
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$72,950 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Physical Therapist Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: State exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Health.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of 72,950, Physical Therapist Assistants in Washington earn 11% above the national median of 65510. Washington ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$72,950Hourly estimate
$35.0711% above national median
Difference: +$7,440
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Assistant Salary Ranking
#9 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Idaho | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $93,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $68,650 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $57,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist Assistant in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Physical Therapist Assistants in Washington?
Washington 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 Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Physical Therapist Assistant licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Physical Therapist Assistant salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapist Assistants in Washington is 72,950. Salaries range from 37420 (10th percentile) to 92490 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist Assistant salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Physical Therapist Assistants in Washington earn 11% above the national median of 65510, with a state median of 72,950.
How many Physical Therapist Assistants work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 2110 Physical Therapist Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist Assistant license to Washington 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.
Who is the licensing agency for Physical Therapist Assistants in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.