2026 data Utah board official source

Utah Physical Therapist License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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

What the Utah data shows for Physical Therapists

Becoming a licensed physical therapist in Utah means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,284 training hours, a passing score on NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam), plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Utah regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

Budget $153 to get started, plus $139 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in Utah

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,284 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$153
Renewal Fee
$139
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 Utah licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in Utah?
In Utah, the license path calls for 3284 education/training hours, a passing score on NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam), and a $153 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in Utah?
Certification as a physical therapist in Utah means clearing the state's checklist: 3284 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Utah licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Utah 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 Utah licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Utah require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing?
Utah does require a background check before issuing a physical therapist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physical Therapist in Utah?
Utah ties continued physical therapist licensure to 30 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $139 renewal fee.

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