Physical Therapist / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia Physical Therapist License Requirements

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

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

What the Virginia data shows for Physical Therapists

To practice as a physical therapist in Virginia, the state licensing board requires 3,405 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam) examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Virginia's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)".

Upfront cost is $186, with renewal running $166 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
3,405 hours
Exam Requirement
NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$186
Renewal Fee
$166
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physical Therapist in Virginia?
Virginia requires 3405 education/training hours, passing an exam (NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam)), and an initial fee of $186. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Physical Therapist in Virginia?
To become a licensed physical therapist in Virginia, you must meet the state's requirements including 3405 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Virginia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Physical Therapist license to Virginia from another state?
Virginia has reciprocity provisions: PT Licensure Compact: 30+ member states. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Virginia licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Virginia require a background check for Physical Therapist licensing?
Yes, Virginia 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 Virginia?
Licensed physical therapists in Virginia must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $166.

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

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