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Physical Therapist License in Colorado

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Physical Therapist license in CO. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$300

Processing Time

4-8 Weeks

Exam Required

NPTE

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Physical Therapist license in Colorado.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Physical Therapist training program in Colorado.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your CO application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NPTE.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Colorado licensing board and pay the $300 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-8 weeks in CO. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

To obtain your Physical Therapist license in Colorado, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Colorado requires all applicants to pass the NPTE before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in CO is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

The Colorado licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Physical Therapist professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the NPTE. CO also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Physical Therapist license in Colorado is approximately $300. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. CO also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Colorado may incur additional penalties of up to $75.

License Fee Calculator — Physical Therapist in Colorado

Base License Fee$300
Estimated Total$300

Renewal Process

Your Physical Therapist license in Colorado must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in CO is $200. Colorado requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in CO can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Physical Therapist in CO

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Colorado requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Colorado takes professional licensing seriously, and the Physical Therapist field is no exception. The state board in CO regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Physical Therapist in Colorado, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The CO licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Physical Therapist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Colorado Physical Therapist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts CO Physical Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize CO Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize CO Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize CO Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) FullCA accepts CO Physical Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts CO Physical Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Iowa (IA) PartialIA requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.

Where to File Locally in Colorado

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Denver

1560 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

(303) 894-7855

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Springs

30 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

(719) 385-5175

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Aurora

15151 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012

(303) 739-7000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fort Collins

300 LaPorte Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80521

(970) 221-6500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Boulder

1777 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80302

(303) 441-3388

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Colorado Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Colorado state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.