Florida Physical Therapist License
Florida Board of Physical Therapy Practice
Total Fee
$137
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
FDLE / Cogent Systems
Temp License
Not available
See board
What You'll Need
- Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the educational institution to the Board. A Letter of Completion is acceptable for initial eligibility.
- NPTE Score Report — Official scores must be transferred from FSBPT to the Florida Board. Transfer Scores
- Fingerprint Receipt — Proof of electronic fingerprint submission (TCN number) from an approved Livescan vendor. Clearinghouse Portal
- License Verification — If previously licensed in another state, verification must be sent directly from that state's board to Florida.
How to Apply
-
Submit Online Application ▾Create an account on the MQA Online Services Portal and submit the initial application for Physical Therapist by Examination.
Apply Online -
Register for Exams ▾Register with the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) for both the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and the Florida Laws and Rules exam.
Register with FSBPT -
Complete Background Screening ▾Undergo electronic fingerprinting through an approved Livescan vendor. Ensure the correct ORI number (EDOH4680Z) is used so results reach the Board.
Background Screening Info -
Submit Educational Credentials ▾Request your CAPTE-accredited program to send official transcripts or a Letter of Completion (LOC) directly to the Board office.
-
Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) ▾Once the Board approves your eligibility, FSBPT will email your ATT letter. Use this to schedule your exam dates with Prometric.
-
Pass Required Exams ▾Successfully pass the NPTE and the Florida Laws and Rules examination. Scores are automatically reported to the Board.
Total Fee
$137
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
Physical Therapists licensed in another state can often apply via endorsement by providing license verification and current certification.
Steps
-
Verify Eligibility ▾Ensure you hold a valid, active license in another state and have passed the NPTE.
-
Submit Endorsement Application ▾Complete the online application via the MQA portal and pay the required fees ($180).
Apply for Endorsement -
Request Score Transfer ▾Request an official NPTE score transfer from FSBPT to the Florida Board.
FSBPT Score Transfer -
Register for Laws and Rules Exam ▾All endorsement applicants must pass the Florida Laws and Rules examination.
Register for Laws Exam -
Complete Background Check ▾Submit fingerprints for a Level 2 background screening through an approved Florida vendor.
Fingerprinting Info
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Florida Board of Physical Therapy Practice
Keeping Your License Active
Florida Physical Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Florida Board of Physical Therapy Practice for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Visit board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $100 |
| Endorsement application | $100 |
| Fingerprint check | $37.25 |
| Temporary permit | See board |
| Renewal | 50.0 |
Slow Downs
Incorrect ORI Number
▾
Using the wrong Originating Agency Identifier (ORI) during fingerprinting prevents the Board from receiving results. Use EDOH4680Z for Physical Therapy.
Missing Transcripts
▾
Applications cannot be finalized until official transcripts or a formal Letter of Completion are received directly from the school.
Laws and Rules Exam Delay
▾
Applicants often forget to register for the Florida-specific Laws and Rules exam separately from the NPTE, delaying final approval.
Incomplete Disciplinary Documentation
▾
Failure to provide court documents or explanatory letters for past criminal or disciplinary history will halt the review process.
Questions
How many continuing education hours are required for renewal?
▾
Florida PTs must complete 24 contact hours every biennium, including 2 hours of Prevention of Medical Errors. First-time renewals also require 1 hour of HIV/AIDS education.
When does my Florida PT license expire?
▾
Licenses expire on November 30th of every odd-numbered year.
Does Florida allow 'Direct Access' for physical therapy?
▾
Yes, a PT may implement a plan of treatment for up to 30 days for a condition not previously assessed by a practitioner of record. Beyond 30 days, a practitioner of record must review and sign the plan.
Can I get a temporary permit in Florida?
▾
Temporary permits may be issued to applicants who have applied for the next available exam and are practicing under the direct supervision of a licensed Florida PT.
Is Florida part of the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact?
▾
Florida has passed legislation to join the Compact, but as of early 2025, it is not yet fully operational for issuing or accepting compact privileges.