Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
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
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$102,900 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#11 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 Rhode Island
With a median salary of 102,900, Physical Therapists in Rhode Island earn 2% above the national median of $101,020. Rhode Island ranks #11 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$102,900Hourly estimate
$49.472% above national median
Difference: +$1,880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Salary Ranking
#11 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $102,900 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $102,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $103,720 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
RI Department of Health • Health Professions Regulation
3 Capitol Hill, Room 104, Providence, RI, 02908
Phone: 4012222828
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $80,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $81,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,060 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Physical Therapist licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Physical Therapist salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapists in Rhode Island is 102,900. Salaries range from $74,000 (10th percentile) to $130,180 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Physical Therapists in Rhode Island earn 2% above the national median of $101,020, with a state median of 102,900.
How many Physical Therapists work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,420 Physical Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Health Professions Regulation. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/.