Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist in Pennsylvania, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physical Therapist in Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Physical Therapy Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$99,570 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Pennsylvania eligibility requirements for Physical Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of State~Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs~Physical Therapy Board and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Pennsylvania
With a median salary of $99,570, Physical Therapists in Pennsylvania earn 1% below the national median of $101,020. Pennsylvania ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,364Median annual salary
$99,570Hourly estimate
$47.871% below national median
Difference: -$1,450
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $99,570 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $99,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Jersey | $106,310 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Delaware | $103,120 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $104,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $101,210 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $99,740 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Delaware | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Physical Therapy Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837134
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,970 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in Pennsylvania?
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 Therapists in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Physical Therapist licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Physical Therapist salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapists in Pennsylvania is $99,570. Salaries range from $74,000 (10th percentile) to $125,810 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Physical Therapists in Pennsylvania earn 1% below the national median of $101,020, with a state median of $99,570.
How many Physical Therapists work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 11,100 Physical Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Physical Therapy Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/PhysicalTherapy.
How often do you renew a Physical Therapist license in Pennsylvania?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.