Physical Therapist / Georgia
2026 data Georgia board official source

Georgia 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 Georgia data shows for Physical Therapists

To practice as a physical therapist in Georgia, the state licensing board requires 3,459 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam). A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Georgia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

Upfront cost is $201, with renewal running $178 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.

On reciprocity, physical therapists should know: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states.

Licensing Requirements in Georgia

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,459 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$201
Renewal Fee
$178
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Georgia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in Georgia?
Georgia requires 3459 education/training hours, passing an exam (NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)), and an initial fee of $201. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in Georgia?
Georgia licenses physical therapists who complete its requirements (3459 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Georgia licensing board.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Georgia from another state?
Reciprocity for physical therapists nationally works like this: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Georgia. Verify the specifics with the Georgia licensing board.
Does Georgia require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for physical therapist licensing in Georgia. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physical Therapist in Georgia?
Licensed physical therapists in Georgia must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $178.

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