Physical Therapist / North Dakota
2026 data North Dakota board official source

North Dakota 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 North Dakota data shows for Physical Therapists

North Dakota sets the entry bar for physical therapists at 3,108 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 North Dakota's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

The initial price tag is $105, and renewal costs $99 every 2 years. 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.

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

Licensing Requirements in North Dakota

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,108 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$105
Renewal Fee
$99
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 North Dakota licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Dakota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in North Dakota? ▼
In North Dakota, the license path calls for 3108 education/training hours, a passing score on NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam), and a $105 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in North Dakota? ▼
North Dakota licenses physical therapists who complete its requirements (3108 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the North Dakota licensing board.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to North Dakota 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 North Dakota. Verify the specifics with the North Dakota licensing board.
Does North Dakota require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing? ▼
Yes, North Dakota 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 North Dakota? ▼
To stay licensed as a physical therapist in North Dakota, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $99.

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.