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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physical Therapist in Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| New York | $99,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $106,310 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $103,120 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $104,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $101,210 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $99,740 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in Pennsylvania?
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 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. 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 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.