Minnesota — north shore lake at dawn

Minnesota Physical Therapist License

Minnesota Board of Medical Practice — PT

Total Fee
$132
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO / BCA
Temp License
Not available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Affidavit of Applicant — A notarized form with a 2x3 passport-type photograph affixed.
  • Certification of Education — Form completed by your university and mailed directly to the Board (for new graduates).
  • Recommendation Forms — Two forms completed by licensed Physical Therapists and mailed directly to the Board.
  • Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the educational institution to the Board office via secure email or mail.

How to Apply

  1. Create Online Account
    Register for a new user account on the Minnesota Health Licensing Boards (HLB) portal to begin the application process.
  2. Submit Application and Fees
    Complete the online application for 'Physical Therapist (New Grad)' and pay the required fees ($243.25 total, including application, initial license, and background check fees).
  3. Complete Criminal Background Check
    After paying fees, you will receive an email from the Criminal Background Check Program (CBCP) with instructions and a fingerprint packet. Follow these to submit your fingerprints.
    CBC Program Info
  4. Submit Required Documentation
    Mail the notarized Affidavit of Applicant (with photo), two recommendation forms, and request official transcripts to be sent directly from your school to the Board.
    View Required Forms
  5. Register for NPTE
    Register with the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
    Register for NPTE
  6. Pass Jurisprudence Exam
    Complete the open-book Jurisprudence Exam on the Minnesota Physical Therapy Practice Act, which is typically integrated into the online application or renewal process.
    Jurisprudence Info
Total Fee
$132
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

  1. Online Endorsement Application
    Select 'Physical Therapist (Another State)' in the online portal and pay the $193.25 fee.
  2. NPTE Score Transfer
    Request an official score transfer from FSBPT to be sent to the Minnesota Board.
    Request Score Transfer
  3. License Verification
    Request official verification of licensure from every state where you have ever held a license.
  4. Submit Endorsement Forms
    Submit the Affidavit of Applicant and two recommendation forms as required for endorsement applicants.
    Endorsement Instructions
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Minnesota Board of Medical Practice — PT

Keeping Your License Active

Minnesota Physical Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice — PT for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$100
Endorsement application$100
Fingerprint check$32.00
Temporary permitSee board
Renewal50.0

Slow Downs

Incomplete Application Files
The Board will not review an application until every required document (transcripts, recommendations, etc.) is received. Check your online checklist frequently.
Background Check Processing
Fingerprint processing through the BCA and FBI can take several weeks. Start this immediately after receiving the email instructions.
Transcript Issues
Transcripts must show the degree conferred date. Sending them before the degree is officially posted will result in the file remaining incomplete.

Questions

How often must I renew my Minnesota PT license?
Licenses must be renewed annually by December 31. The renewal window typically opens in mid-November.
What are the continuing education (CE) requirements?
PTs must complete 20 contact hours of CE every two years. At least 2 of these hours must be in professional ethics.
Is there a Jurisprudence Exam?
Yes, a passing score on the open-book Jurisprudence Exam is required for both initial licensure and annual renewal.
Can I get a temporary permit?
Yes, new graduates and endorsement applicants can apply for a temporary permit for a $25 fee while their full license application is pending.

Board Info

Minnesota Board of Medical Practice — PT
Sources
Last verified 2026-02-25