Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by WI Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Assistant Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist assistant in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,890 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Wisconsin eligibility requirements for Physical Therapist Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: State exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the WI Department of Safety and Professional Services~Division of Professional Credential Processing.
Salary Insights in Wisconsin
With a median salary of 61,890, Physical Therapist Assistants in Wisconsin earn 6% below the national median of 65510. Wisconsin ranks #34 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$61,890Hourly estimate
$29.756% below national median
Difference: -$3,620
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Assistant Salary Ranking
#34 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $61,890 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $63,240 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $60,720 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $64,630 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $59,510 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Illinois | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Michigan | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
WI Department of Safety and Professional Services • Division of Professional Credential Processing
1400 E. Washington Ave., P.O. Box 8935, Madison, WI, 53708-8935
Phone: 6082662112
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,380 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $78,890 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $63,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,000 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist Assistant in Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physical Therapist Assistant licensure in Wisconsin.
What is the typical Physical Therapist Assistant salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapist Assistants in Wisconsin is 61,890. Salaries range from 47720 (10th percentile) to 76420 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist Assistant salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Physical Therapist Assistants in Wisconsin earn 6% below the national median of 65510, with a state median of 61,890.
How many Physical Therapist Assistants work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 2000 Physical Therapist Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist Assistant license to Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Department of Safety and Professional Services / Division of Professional Credential Processing. Review agency details at https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/Default.aspx.