Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physical Therapist in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Physical Therapy Board of California
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$123,300 median (22% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Physical Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Physical Therapy Board of California and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $123,300, Physical Therapists in California earn 22% above the national median of $101,020. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$123,300Hourly estimate
$59.2822% above national median
Difference: +$22,280
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Physical Therapist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $123,300 |
| #2 | Alaska | $108,640 |
| #3 | New Jersey | $106,310 |
| #4 | Nevada | $105,170 |
| #5 | Oregon | $104,430 |
Nearby States Comparison
Physical Therapist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $123,300 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $104,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $105,170 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $101,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Physical Therapy Board of California
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 2600, Sacramento, CA, 95815
Phone: 9165618200
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $77,640 | Varies by state board | 1-2 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | 1-12 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $74,150 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in California?
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 is the typical Physical Therapist salary in California?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapists in California is $123,300. Salaries range from $81,910 (10th percentile) to $161,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist salary in California compare to the national average?
Physical Therapists in California earn 22% above the national median of $101,020, with a state median of $123,300.
How many Physical Therapists work in California?
California employs approximately 24,380 Physical Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Physical Therapists in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Physical Therapy Board of California. Review agency details at https://www.ptbc.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Physical Therapist license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.