Physical Therapist / New Mexico
2026 data New Mexico board official source

New Mexico Physical Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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

What the New Mexico data shows for Physical Therapists

New Mexico's path to physical therapist licensure runs through 3,770 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. New Mexico folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

Budget $287 to get started, plus $248 at each renewal 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.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states.

Licensing Requirements in New Mexico

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,770 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$287
Renewal Fee
$248
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 New Mexico licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New Mexico licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in New Mexico? ▼
New Mexico's requirements cover 3770 hours of education or training, the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam) exam, and an initial fee of $287. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in New Mexico? ▼
New Mexico licenses physical therapists who complete its requirements (3770 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the New Mexico licensing board.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to New Mexico from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for physical therapists: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the New Mexico licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does New Mexico require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for physical therapist licensing in New Mexico. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physical Therapist in New Mexico? ▼
Licensed physical therapists in New Mexico must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $248.

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.