Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Physical Therapist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physical therapist in Virginia, 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 Virginia
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
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Physical Therapy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$100,710 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 100,710, Physical Therapists in Virginia earn 0% below the national median of $101,020. Virginia ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$100,710Hourly estimate
$48.420% above national median
Difference: -$310
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysical Therapist Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $100,710 | Degree 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 |
| Kentucky | $97,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $100,660 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $96,670 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 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
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Physical Therapy
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043674674
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $85,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $94,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,910 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia 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 Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physical Therapist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Physical Therapist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Physical Therapists in Virginia is 100,710. Salaries range from $75,830 (10th percentile) to $129,440 (90th percentile).
How does the Physical Therapist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Physical Therapists in Virginia earn 0% below the national median of $101,020, with a state median of 100,710.
How many Physical Therapists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 6,700 Physical Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Physical Therapy. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/PhysicalTherapy/.