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Physical Therapist License in Texas

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Physical Therapist license in TX. 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 Texas.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Physical Therapist training program in Texas.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your TX application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NPTE.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

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

Requirements

Texas has specific requirements for Physical Therapist licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility. A clean background check is mandatory in TX, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The NPTE must be passed with a minimum score set by the Texas board.

Fees & Costs

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

License Fee Calculator — Physical Therapist in Texas

Base License Fee$300
Estimated Total$300

Renewal Process

Texas requires Physical Therapist license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $200 in TX. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Texas offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Physical Therapist in TX

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

Additional Information

Working as a Physical Therapist in Texas offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. TX has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Texas also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Physical Therapist professionals.

Document Checklist — Physical Therapist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Texas 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) NoneAK does not recognize TX Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize TX Physical Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts TX Physical Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts TX Physical Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts TX Physical Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for TX license holders.

Where to File Locally in Texas

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

Austin

920 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701

(512) 463-6599

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

Houston

901 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002

(713) 837-7000

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

Dallas

1500 Marilla St, Dallas, TX 75201

(214) 670-3011

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

San Antonio

100 Military Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

(210) 207-7080

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

Fort Worth

200 Texas St, Fort Worth, TX 76102

(817) 392-2255

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

Official Texas Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Texas 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.