CaliforniaPhysical Therapist License Requirements

CAPTE Details

Graduation from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) is required

Prerequisite Courses

Physical therapists must earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a CAPTE-accredited program. Programs typically take 3 years and include extensive clinical education hours. Prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics is required.

Format: Computer-based at Pearson VUE; 250 questions (200 scored + 50 pretest); multiple choice

Retake Policy

90-day waiting period between attempts; maximum 6 lifetime attempts

The NPTE is a computer-based exam administered by the FSBPT (Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy). It consists of 250 multiple-choice questions with a 5-hour time limit. Many states also require a separate jurisprudence exam on state-specific laws and regulations.

Limitations

45 calendar days or 12 visits, whichever occurs first

Referral Required For

Direct access allows patients to receive physical therapy services without a physician referral. Most states allow some form of direct access, though limitations on treatment duration, evaluation-only provisions, and conditions requiring referral vary by state.

Aide Supervision

Direct on-premises supervision required for physical therapist aides

Physical therapists are responsible for supervising physical therapist assistants (PTAs) and aides. Supervision ratios, types (direct vs. general), and telehealth supervision rules vary by state. PTAs must work under the direction and supervision of a licensed PT.

Required CE Topics

Regulatory Board

Physical therapist licenses must be renewed on schedule. Most states require continuing education hours covering topics such as ethics, pain management, and evidence-based practice. Some states also require minimum practice hours for renewal.

PT Compact Details

California is not a member of the PT Compact.

Endorsement Requirements

• •Active PT license in good standing in another state
• •Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program
• •Passage of the NPTE
• •Complete CAL-JAM jurisprudence assessment
• •Pass criminal background check with fingerprinting

The Physical Therapy Compact allows licensed PTs and PTAs to practice in other compact member states without obtaining additional licenses. Non-compact states require license by endorsement, which typically involves verifying credentials, passing the NPTE, and submitting additional documentation.