Physical Therapist / Iowa
2026 data Iowa board official source

Iowa Physical Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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

What the Iowa data shows for Physical Therapists

Iowa's path to physical therapist licensure runs through 3,189 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Iowa folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

Upfront cost is $127, with renewal running $118 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 30 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

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

Licensing Requirements in Iowa

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,189 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$127
Renewal Fee
$118
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Compare & Explore

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in Iowa? ▼
Iowa's requirements cover 3189 hours of education or training, the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam) exam, and an initial fee of $127. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in Iowa? ▼
To become a licensed physical therapist in Iowa, you must meet the state's requirements including 3189 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Iowa licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Iowa from another state? ▼
Physical Therapist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Iowa licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Iowa require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the physical therapist licensing process in Iowa. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physical Therapist in Iowa? ▼
To stay licensed as a physical therapist in Iowa, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $118.

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.