Application Fee
See agencyVerified 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 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 Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 4
Generally requires formal training.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- 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 (6)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Physical Therapist Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course 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 Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $72,950, Physical Therapist Assistants in Washington earn 11% above the national median of $65,510. Washington ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $60,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist Assistant in Washington?
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 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 $37,420 (10th percentile) to $92,490 (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 $65,510, with a state median of $72,950.
How many Physical Therapist Assistants work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 2,110 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. Verify directly with the agency.
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/.
How often do you renew a Physical Therapist Assistant license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.