Physical Therapist / Colorado
2026 data Colorado board official source

Colorado Physical Therapist License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Evaluates and treats movement disorders and injuries. Requires doctoral degree.

What the Colorado data shows for Physical Therapists

To practice as a physical therapist in Colorado, the state licensing board requires 3,851 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam) examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Colorado's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

Upfront cost is $309, with renewal running $267 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Colorado

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,851 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$309
Renewal Fee
$267
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Colorado licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in Colorado?
Colorado requires 3851 education/training hours, passing an exam (NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)), and an initial fee of $309. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in Colorado?
To become a licensed physical therapist in Colorado, you must meet the state's requirements including 3851 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Colorado licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Colorado from another state?
Colorado has reciprocity provisions: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Colorado licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Colorado require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing?
Yes, Colorado requires a criminal background check as part of the physical therapist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physical Therapist in Colorado?
Licensed physical therapists in Colorado must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $267.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

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