Physical Therapist / Kentucky
2026 data Kentucky board official source

Kentucky 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 Kentucky data shows for Physical Therapists

To practice as a physical therapist in Kentucky, the state licensing board requires 3,270 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 Kentucky's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

The initial price tag is $149, and renewal costs $136 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in Kentucky

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,270 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$149
Renewal Fee
$136
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 Kentucky licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Kentucky licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in Kentucky? ▼
Kentucky requires 3270 education/training hours, passing an exam (NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)), and an initial fee of $149. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in Kentucky? ▼
Certification as a physical therapist in Kentucky means clearing the state's checklist: 3270 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Kentucky licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky. Verify the specifics with the Kentucky licensing board.
Does Kentucky require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for physical therapist licensing in Kentucky. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physical Therapist in Kentucky? ▼
To stay licensed as a physical therapist in Kentucky, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $136.

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.