How to Become a Physical Therapist in 2025
To become a physical therapist, you need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which typically takes three years to complete after earning a bachelor's degree. You must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and obtain state licensure. The entire process typically takes 7-8 years, with median annual salaries of $101,020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data).
Physical therapy ranks among the most rewarding healthcare careers, combining hands-on patient care with the opportunity to make a lasting impact on people's lives. Whether you're a high school student exploring career options or a professional considering a career change, understanding the pathway to becoming a physical therapist is your first step toward this fulfilling profession.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about becoming a physical therapist, from educational requirements and licensing to salary expectations and job outlook. You'll discover the six essential steps to launch your PT career and learn what it takes to succeed in this growing field.
Table of Contents
What Is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapists (PTs) provide essential care to people of all ages, helping them manage pain and improve movement after injuries or due to chronic conditions. As critical members of multidisciplinary treatment and rehabilitation teams, they work with patients recovering from accidents, work-related injuries, sports injuries, fractures, sprains, arthritis, neurological disorders, and other conditions affecting mobility and quality of life.
PTs may choose to specialize in specific areas like geriatrics, working primarily with older adults, or sports medicine, developing treatment plans for athletes. Most physical therapists work across various specialties and patient populations throughout their careers. The work varies significantly from patient to patient, with treatment plans customized around individual needs, goals, and circumstances.
A typical day for a physical therapist includes performing diagnostic tests, assessing patient conditions, designing personalized treatment programs, and guiding patients through therapeutic exercises. They employ various techniques, including manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and assistive devices such as canes or crutches. PTs also educate patients about injury prevention and coordinate care with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
Beyond clinical skills, physical therapists need strong interpersonal abilities. Patients often feel vulnerable during treatment, so PTs must demonstrate compassion, empathy, and patience while building trust. They need excellent communication skills to explain treatment plans clearly and motivational abilities to encourage patients through challenging recovery processes. Physical stamina is also essential, as the job requires standing, bending, and lifting throughout the workday.
Working Conditions of a Physical Therapist
Physical therapists work in diverse settings across the healthcare spectrum. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 37% of physical therapists work in offices alongside other healthcare specialists and various types of therapists. This variety of work environments allows PTs to find settings that match their interests and lifestyle preferences.
Typical workplaces for physical therapists include:
- Hospitals (general medical, surgical, and specialty units)
- Private physical therapy clinics
- Outpatient care centers
- Nursing homes and long-term care facilities
- Athletic training centers and sports facilities
- Rehabilitation centers
- Schools and educational institutions
- Patients' homes (home health services)
- Corporate wellness programs
The physical demands of the job are significant. Physical therapists spend most of their time on their feet, actively demonstrating exercises and providing hands-on treatment. They need strength and stamina to assist patients with mobility challenges and to perform manual therapy techniques throughout the day.
Most PTs work full-time schedules, typically Monday through Friday during business hours. However, many positions require flexibility for evening, weekend, and holiday shifts to accommodate patient needs. Those working in home health services travel between patient homes, while hospital-based PTs may work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends. The variety in scheduling options allows physical therapists to find positions that fit their work-life balance preferences.
How to Become a Physical Therapist in Six Simple Steps
The journey to becoming a physical therapist requires dedication, extensive education, and clinical training. From completing your bachelor's degree to obtaining licensure and potentially pursuing specialization, each step builds toward a successful career in physical therapy. Let's break down exactly what you need to do.
Step 1: Get Your Bachelor's Degree
Your path to a career in physical therapy begins with earning a bachelor's degree, which typically takes four years to complete. While your primary choice is flexible, most successful DPT applicants pursue degrees in health science, exercise science, kinesiology, biology, or sports science. These fields provide the foundational knowledge you'll need for graduate-level PT coursework.
Graduate programs often require specific prerequisite courses, so it's smart to research your target DPT programs early in your undergraduate career. Typical prerequisites include physics, biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and statistics. Many students also complete observation hours in physical therapy settings during their undergraduate years, which strengthens their graduate school applications and confirms their career choice. Note that some DPT programs require a minimum number of observation hours for admission, so check individual program requirements early in your planning process.
Step 2: Graduate From a DPT Program
The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) has been the required entry-level degree for new physical therapists since the early 2010s, following a profession-wide transition that began in the mid-2000s. DPT programs typically take three years to complete, encompassing both rigorous classroom instruction and extensive clinical experience.
Your DPT coursework encompasses essential topics such as biomechanics, neuroscience, pharmacology, pathophysiology, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic interventions. The curriculum combines scientific knowledge with practical skills, preparing you to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of conditions affecting human movement and function.
Clinical education forms a critical component of DPT training. Most programs require at least 30 weeks of supervised clinical work, providing you with hands-on experience in various settings, including orthopedic clinics, acute care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient facilities. This clinical training allows you to apply classroom knowledge to genuine patient care under the guidance of experienced physical therapists.
To find accredited programs, use the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS), which streamlines the application process for most DPT programs nationwide.
Step 3: Take and Pass the NPTE
After completing your DPT degree, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) to become eligible for licensure. The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) administers this computer-based exam, which tests your knowledge and clinical decision-making skills.
The NPTE consists of 250 multiple-choice questions, divided into five sections, that cover all aspects of physical therapy practice. Scores range from 200 to 800, with a passing score of 600 or higher. The exam is offered four times a year, administered in January, April, July, and October, providing multiple opportunities to test.
If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam up to three times per year. Most candidates prepare using study guides, review courses, and practice exams. Your DPT program likely provides resources and guidance for NPTE preparation.
Step 4: Get Licensed to Practice
All 50 states require physical therapists to hold a valid license to practice their profession. While passing the NPTE is a universal requirement, each state has additional licensing requirements that may include background checks, jurisprudence exams, and application fees.
Most states also require continuing education to maintain your license, typically every two years. These continuing education requirements ensure you stay current with evolving best practices, new treatment techniques, and emerging research in physical therapy. Requirements vary by state, so check with your state's physical therapy board for specific details.
Important note: Some states participate in the Physical Therapy Compact, which allows licensed PTs to practice in multiple compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This can be particularly beneficial if you plan to work across state lines or relocate during your career. Verify whether your state participates in this interstate compact to explore easier multi-state practice opportunities.
Step 5: Complete Your Residency (Optional)
While not required to practice as a physical therapist, completing a clinical residency can significantly enhance your expertise and career prospects. PT residencies typically last 9-36 months and provide intensive training in a specific area of practice.
A residency program combines continued clinical work with structured coursework and mentorship from experienced specialists. This advanced training prepares you for board certification in your chosen specialty and positions you as an expert in your field. For physical therapists interested in rehabilitation psychology or working with patients recovering from neurological conditions, specialized residency training can be particularly valuable.
Step 6: Get Board Certified (Optional)
Board certification represents the highest level of clinical expertise in physical therapy. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) offers board certification in ten specialty areas:
- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy
- Clinical Electrophysiology
- Geriatric Physical Therapy
- Neurology Physical Therapy
- Oncology Physical Therapy
- Orthopedic Physical Therapy
- Pediatric Physical Therapy
- Sports Physical Therapy
- Wound Management
- Women's Health Physical Therapy
To become board-certified, you must either complete an APTA-accredited residency program or accumulate 2,000 hours of clinical work in your specialty area, then pass a rigorous examination. Board certification demonstrates your advanced knowledge and commitment to excellence in your chosen specialty area.
Physical Therapist Salary and Wage Expectations
Physical therapy offers competitive compensation that reflects the extensive education and valuable skills required for the profession. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, physical therapists earned a median annual salary of $101,020 as of May 2024. These figures represent the most recent comprehensive data available at the time of publication. For the latest salary information, consult the current BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. Actual earnings vary significantly based on experience, location, specialty, and work setting.
| Percentile | Annual Salary (2022) | Typical Experience Level |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,420 | Entry-level positions, new graduates |
| 25th Percentile | $83,470 | 1-3 years of experience |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $101,020 | Mid-career professionals |
| 75th Percentile | $117,190 | Experienced PTs, specialists |
| 90th Percentile | $132,500+ | Senior practitioners, practice owners |
Geographic location has a significant impact on physical therapist salaries. Metropolitan areas and states with higher costs of living typically offer higher wages to attract qualified professionals. Rural areas may offer lower base salaries but often provide signing bonuses, student loan repayment assistance, or other incentives to address workforce shortages.
Work settings also influence earning potential. Physical therapists in home health services and nursing care facilities often earn at the higher end of the salary range. In contrast, those in school or university settings may earn less but enjoy benefits such as academic schedules and holidays. Private practice owners have the potential for higher earnings but also shoulder business operation costs and responsibilities.
Most physical therapists work full-time, with standard Monday-through-Friday schedules being common in outpatient clinics. However, positions in hospitals, home health, and some rehabilitation centers may require evening, weekend, and holiday shifts, often with additional compensation for these less desirable hours.
Job Outlook for Physical Therapists
The demand for physical therapists continues to grow at an impressive rate. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% employment growth for physical therapists for the decade 2024-2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates to approximately 29,300 new positions over the decade.
Several factors drive this strong job outlook. The aging baby boomer generation remains active longer than previous generations, resulting in an increased demand for physical therapy services to maintain mobility and manage age-related conditions. Additionally, advances in medical care mean more people survive traumatic injuries and strokes, creating a greater need for rehabilitation services.
The rising prevalence of chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity contributes to increased demand for physical therapy. These conditions often lead to mobility issues and related health problems that benefit from PT intervention. Furthermore, medical advances continue to improve, leading to more outpatient surgeries and faster hospital discharges, with patients continuing their recovery through outpatient physical therapy.
Physical therapists also play an expanding role in preventive care. Many employers and insurance companies now recognize the value of PT services in preventing injuries and managing chronic conditions before they require more expensive interventions. This preventive focus creates new opportunities in corporate wellness programs, sports medicine, and community health initiatives.
Essential Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Success as a physical therapist requires a unique combination of scientific knowledge, technical skills, and interpersonal abilities. Movement is fundamental to quality of life and human function, and physical therapists must understand the complex factors that affect mobility, from biomechanics to psychology. The role demands expertise across multiple domains to effectively assess, treat, and support patients with diverse needs.
Essential Knowledge Areas
Physical therapists must possess a comprehensive understanding of medical principles and diagnostic techniques used to identify and treat injuries and deformities. This medical knowledge, combined with strong customer service principles, provides patient-centered care that addresses individual needs and goals. Understanding human behavior and performance through psychology helps PTs work effectively with patients who may be frustrated, anxious, or unmotivated during recovery.
Thorough anatomical knowledge forms the foundation of physical therapy practice. PTs must understand the structure of the human body down to the cellular level, including how tissues, organs, and systems interact. This anatomical expertise is integrated with knowledge of therapy and counseling principles to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address both the physical and mental aspects of recovery.
Biology knowledge helps PTs understand how organisms function and interact with their environment, which is crucial for treating patients with various conditions. Sociology and anthropology offer valuable insights into group behavior, cultural influences, and social dynamics that impact patient care and outcomes. Business and management skills become crucial for those who advance to supervisory roles or open private practices, requiring knowledge of strategic planning, resource allocation, and human resources management.
Critical Skills and Abilities
Compassion and Empathy: Physical therapists work with patients experiencing pain, frustration, and vulnerability. The ability to empathize with their circumstances and provide compassionate care builds trust and improves outcomes.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills: PTs must clearly explain complex treatment plans, demonstrate exercises effectively, and motivate patients to adhere to their programs. Strong communication helps build therapeutic relationships and ensures patients understand their role in recovery.
Analytical and Observational Skills: Successful physical therapists possess strong analytical skills to diagnose problems and develop effective treatment plans accurately. Keen observation skills enable them to monitor patient progress, identify issues early, and adjust treatments as needed to provide safe and effective care.
Manual Dexterity: Physical therapists must skillfully use their hands to provide manual therapy techniques, including massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue manipulation. These hands-on skills require precision, control, and the ability to adjust pressure and technique in response to the patient's needs.
Physical Stamina and Strength: The job demands significant physical endurance. PTs spend most of their day standing, bending, and moving. They must have the strength to assist patients with transfers, support them during exercises, and demonstrate proper techniques repeatedly throughout the day.
Resourcefulness and Flexibility: Every patient presents unique challenges. Physical therapists must think creatively to customize treatment plans, adapt exercises for varying ability levels, and find solutions when standard approaches are ineffective. This flexibility extends to adjusting plans as patients progress or encounter setbacks.
Related Careers
If you're interested in physical therapy, you might also consider these related healthcare careers that work with patients to improve function and quality of life:
Occupational Therapists: OTs help patients develop, recover, or maintain the daily living and work skills they need for independence. They focus on fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, and adapting environments to support patient function and independence. Like physical therapists, OTs work in various settings and often collaborate on patient care teams.
Recreational Therapists: These professionals utilize activities, games, and leisure pursuits as therapeutic interventions to enhance patients' physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being. They help patients develop skills, build confidence, and participate more fully in community life after illness or injury.
Speech-Language Pathologists: Speech therapists diagnose and treat communication disorders, speech impediments, language difficulties, and swallowing problems. They work with patients of all ages, from children with developmental delays to adults recovering from strokes or traumatic brain injuries.
Chiropractors: These practitioners use hands-on spinal manipulation and other manual techniques to align the body's musculoskeletal structure properly. While their approach differs from physical therapy, chiropractors share the goal of helping patients manage pain and improve their function without resorting to surgery or medication.
Audiologists: Audiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders. They evaluate auditory function, prescribe hearing aids and assistive devices, and provide rehabilitation for patients with hearing loss or vestibular problems.
Exercise Physiologists: These healthcare professionals develop fitness and exercise programs for patients recovering from chronic diseases or cardiovascular events. They work closely with physical therapists to improve patient strength, endurance, and overall health through targeted exercise interventions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Physical Therapist
How long does it take to become a physical therapist?
It takes 7-8 years total to become a physical therapist: 4 years for a bachelor's degree and 3 years for a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. If you complete prerequisite courses during your bachelor's degree, you can streamline this timeline. Adding a residency (optional) extends the timeline by 1 to 3 years.
Can you become a physical therapist with just a bachelor's degree?
No. The DPT has been the required entry-level degree for new physical therapists since the early 2010s. Bachelor's degree programs in physical therapy are no longer sufficient for licensure in all states. You need a bachelor's degree to enter a DPT program, but you can't practice as a PT without the doctoral degree.
How much do physical therapists make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2022), physical therapists earn a median annual salary of $97,720. Entry-level PTs earn around $67,910, while experienced practitioners in the 90th percentile earn more than $128,830. Salaries vary by location, specialty, work setting, and years of experience. Refer to the latest BLS data for the most up-to-date figures.
Is it challenging to gain admission to a DPT program?
DPT programs are competitive, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 25% to 40%. Strong performance in prerequisite courses, a competitive GPA (normally 3.5 or higher), completion of clinical observation hours, and satisfactory GRE scores (if required) are essential for admission. Many successful applicants also demonstrate leadership skills, volunteer experience, and a clear commitment to the profession.
Do physical therapists need to be licensed in every state?
Yes. All 50 states require physical therapists to be licensed. Requirements include graduating from an accredited DPT program, passing the NPTE exam, and meeting state-specific requirements like background checks and jurisprudence exams. Most states require continuing education every 1-2 years to maintain licensure. Some states participate in the Physical Therapy Compact, which allows for easier multi-state practice.
Can physical therapists specialize in specific areas? of practice
Yes. Physical therapists can pursue board certification in ten specialty areas through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS). Specialties include orthopedics, sports medicine, neurology, pediatrics, geriatrics, cardiovascular and pulmonary medicine, oncology, women's health, wound management, and clinical electrophysiology. Specialization requires additional training and examination.
What's the difference between a PT and a PTA?
Physical therapists (PTs) hold doctoral degrees and are responsible for patient evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) hold associate degrees and work under PT supervision to implement treatment plans. PTs can open their own practices, while PTAs cannot practice independently. The salary and educational requirements differ significantly between these roles.
Key Takeaways: Becoming a Physical Therapist
- Education requirement: DPT degree mandatory (3 years post-bachelor's), total 7-8 years of education to begin practicing
- Licensure essentials: Must pass the NPTE exam and obtain state licensure, with continuing education required for renewal
- Strong career outlook: 17% job growth projected for 2021-2031, driven by aging population and increased focus on preventive care
- Competitive compensation: Median salary of $97,720 annually (2022 BLS data), with potential to earn $128,830+ with experience and specialization
- Specialization opportunities: Optional residency training and board certification available in ten specialty areas for career advancement
- Diverse work settings: PTs work in hospitals, private clinics, schools, homes, sports facilities, and rehabilitation centers
Ready to Start Your Physical Therapy Career?
Becoming a physical therapist offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives while building a stable, well-compensated career. Explore accredited DPT programs to take your first step toward this rewarding profession.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Physical Therapists are based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
