Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist in Tennessee, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physical Therapist in Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$100,660 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 100,660, Physical Therapists in Tennessee earn 0% below the national median of $101,020. Tennessee ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$100,660Hourly estimate
$48.390% above national median
Difference: -$360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Salary Ranking
#22 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $100,660 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $97,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $100,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $96,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $101,930 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $97,040 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $97,080 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $96,840 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $93,750 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | 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. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
"665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd Floor", Na, 000TN-7243
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in Tennessee?
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 education do you need to become a Physical Therapist in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physical Therapist licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Physical Therapist salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapists in Tennessee is 100,660. Salaries range from $74,160 (10th percentile) to $123,800 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Physical Therapists in Tennessee earn 0% below the national median of $101,020, with a state median of 100,660.
How many Physical Therapists work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 4,420 Physical Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Tennessee from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Physical Therapists in Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.