Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physical Therapist in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Public Protection Cabinet • Board of Physical Therapy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$97,500 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of 97,500, Physical Therapists in Kentucky earn 3% below the national median of $101,020. Kentucky ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$97,500Hourly estimate
$46.883% below national median
Difference: -$3,520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Salary Ranking
#36 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $97,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $99,310 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $99,740 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $101,210 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $100,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $100,660 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $93,750 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $103,380 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be 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
Public Protection Cabinet • Board of Physical Therapy
312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 102, Louisville, KY, 40222
Phone: 5024297140
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in Kentucky?
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 Therapists in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Physical Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Physical Therapist in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physical Therapist licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Physical Therapist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapists in Kentucky is 97,500. Salaries range from $61,810 (10th percentile) to $121,590 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Physical Therapists in Kentucky earn 3% below the national median of $101,020, with a state median of 97,500.
How many Physical Therapists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 3,570 Physical Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Kentucky 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 Therapists in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Public Protection Cabinet / Board of Physical Therapy. Review agency details at https://pt.ky.gov/.