Nebraska Physical Therapist License
Nebraska DHHS — Physical Therapy
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Not available
See board
What You'll Need
- Physical Therapist License Application — The primary application form for initial licensure or endorsement. Download Form
- Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the issuing institution to the DHHS Licensure Unit.
- Proof of Lawful Presence — A copy of a government-issued ID such as a passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.
- Fingerprint Cards — Required for the criminal background check processed by the Nebraska State Patrol. Fingerprinting Info
- NPTE and NELAW Scores — Official score reports sent directly from FSBPT. FSBPT Scores
How to Apply
-
Pass Required Examinations ▾Register for and pass the National Physical Therapist Examination (NPTE) and the Nebraska Jurisprudence (NELAW) examination through FSBPT. Note: NELAW transitions to the NE JAM format on July 1, 2025.
Register with FSBPT -
Complete Application Form ▾Download and complete the Physical Therapist License Application. Ensure all sections, including practice history and conviction information, are filled out accurately.
Download Application PDF -
Submit Application and Fee ▾Mail the completed application along with the $168 licensure fee (check or money order) to the DHHS Licensure Unit. Fee waivers may apply for young workers or low-income individuals.
View Fee Schedule -
Complete Criminal Background Check ▾Submit fingerprints to the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP). Pay the $55 background check fee via the NSP PayPort system. Fingerprinting can be done via LiveScan in Nebraska or ink cards if out-of-state.
-
Submit Official Transcripts ▾Request that your physical therapy educational program send official transcripts directly to the Nebraska DHHS Licensure Unit.
-
Provide Proof of Citizenship ▾Submit a photocopy of a document proving U.S. citizenship or lawful presence (e.g., birth certificate, passport, or green card).
Total Fee
$100
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 Active License ▾Ensure you hold an active, unencumbered license in another state or jurisdiction.
-
Submit Endorsement Application ▾Use the standard Physical Therapist License Application form and check the box for licensure by endorsement.
Download Application -
Request License Verifications ▾Request official verification of licensure from every state where you have ever held a license to be sent directly to Nebraska DHHS.
-
Complete Nebraska Jurisprudence Exam ▾Even if licensed elsewhere, you must pass the Nebraska Law (NELAW) or NE JAM examination.
Jurisprudence Info
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Nebraska DHHS — Physical Therapy
Keeping Your License Active
Nebraska Physical Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Nebraska DHHS — Physical Therapy for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Visit board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $100 |
| Endorsement application | $100 |
| Fingerprint check | $35-$50 (varies by state) |
| Temporary permit | See board |
| Renewal | 50.0 |
Slow Downs
Incomplete Application Forms
▾
Missing signatures or unanswered questions on the paper application will halt processing until corrected.
Background Check Processing
▾
The Nebraska State Patrol background check can take several weeks; delays occur if fingerprints are rejected or fees are unpaid.
Transcript and Verification Delays
▾
Waiting for third-party institutions to send official transcripts or license verifications is a frequent cause of delay.
Questions
How many continuing education hours are required for renewal?
▾
Physical Therapists must complete 20 hours of acceptable continuing education every 24-month renewal period.
When does my Nebraska PT license expire?
▾
Licenses expire on November 1st of every odd-numbered year.
Is Nebraska a member of the Physical Therapy Compact?
▾
Yes, Nebraska is an active member of the PT Compact, allowing for compact privileges if you hold a home state license in another member state.
What is the fee for an initial PT license?
▾
The standard initial licensure fee is $168, plus a $55 fee for the criminal background check.
What is the NE JAM?
▾
Starting July 1, 2025, the Nebraska Jurisprudence Assessment Module (NE JAM) replaces the NELAW as the required law examination for licensure.