Physical Therapist / Florida
2026 data Florida board official source

Florida Physical Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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

What the Florida data shows for Physical Therapists

Florida sets the entry bar for physical therapists at 3,622 training hours and a passing score on NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam). A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Florida's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

Upfront cost is $246, with renewal running $215 on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For physical therapists, the reciprocity picture is: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states.

Licensing Requirements in Florida

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,622 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$246
Renewal Fee
$215
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Physical Therapist All Florida licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Florida licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in Florida? ▼
Florida's requirements cover 3622 hours of education or training, the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam) exam, and an initial fee of $246. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in Florida? ▼
To become a licensed physical therapist in Florida, you must meet the state's requirements including 3622 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Florida licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Florida from another state? ▼
For physical therapists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Florida licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Florida require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for physical therapist licensing in Florida. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physical Therapist in Florida? ▼
Licensed physical therapists in Florida must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $215.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.