Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist in Ohio, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physical Therapist in Ohio
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$99,740 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 Ohio
With a median salary of 99,740, Physical Therapists in Ohio earn 1% below the national median of $101,020. Ohio ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$99,740Hourly estimate
$47.951% below national median
Difference: -$1,280
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Salary Ranking
#26 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $99,740 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $98,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $99,570 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $101,210 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $97,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $99,310 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 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. |
| 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. |
- 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
Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board
77 S. High Street, 16th Floor, Columbus, OH, 43215-6108
Phone: 6144663774
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $76,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $81,110 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,890 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,330 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in Ohio?
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 Ohio?
Ohio lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Physical Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Physical Therapist in Ohio?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physical Therapist licensure in Ohio.
What is the typical Physical Therapist salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapists in Ohio is 99,740. Salaries range from $75,070 (10th percentile) to $123,330 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Physical Therapists in Ohio earn 1% below the national median of $101,020, with a state median of 99,740.
How many Physical Therapists work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 9,240 Physical Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Ohio 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 Ohio?
The licensing agency is Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board. Review agency details at https://www.otptat.ohio.gov/.