Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist in Texas, 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 Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam 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
Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$103,710 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 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 Texas
With a median salary of 103,710, Physical Therapists in Texas earn 3% above the national median of $101,020. Texas ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$103,710Hourly estimate
$49.863% above national median
Difference: +$2,690
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Salary Ranking
#8 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $103,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $99,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $96,840 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $100,550 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $101,130 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 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
Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners
1801 Congress Ave, Ste 10.900, Austin, TX, 78701-1319
Phone: 5123056900
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $87,130 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $42,270 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas 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 Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physical Therapist licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Physical Therapist salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapists in Texas is 103,710. Salaries range from $74,380 (10th percentile) to $135,390 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Physical Therapists in Texas earn 3% above the national median of $101,020, with a state median of 103,710.
How many Physical Therapists work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 18,930 Physical Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners. Review agency details at https://ptot.texas.gov/.