Texas — desert road through Big Bend toward the Chisos Mountains

Texas Physical Therapist License

Texas Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners

Total Fee
$138
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (FAST Pass via DPS)
Temp License
Not available
See board

What You'll Need

  • Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the educational institution to the Board.
  • Passport-Type Photo — A 2x2 inch color photo taken within the last 6 months. View Photo Specs
  • NPTE Score Report — Official scores must be transferred from FSBPT to the Texas Board. Request Score Transfer
  • TX JAM Score Report — Proof of passing the Texas Jurisprudence Assessment Module. TX JAM Info
  • Fingerprint Receipt — Retain the receipt from IdentoGO as proof of completion.

How to Apply

  1. Create an Online Account
    All applicants must create a profile in the ECPTOTE Online Licensing System to begin the application process.
    Access Online Licensing System
  2. Submit Application and Pay Fee
    Complete the online application for 'Physical Therapist - Initial by Exam' and pay the non-refundable fee ($190 for PT).
    Apply Online
  3. Submit Passport-Type Photo
    Submit a recent 2x2 passport-type photo. This can be emailed as a digital attachment to exam@ptot.texas.gov or mailed to the board office.
    Photo Requirements
  4. Request Official Transcripts
    Contact your university registrar to have official transcripts sent directly to the Board. Electronic transcripts are accepted if sent via a secure third-party service to exam@ptot.texas.gov.
  5. Complete the Texas JAM
    Take the Texas Jurisprudence Assessment Module (TX JAM) through the FSBPT website. This is a requirement for all initial applicants.
    Take TX JAM
  6. Complete Fingerprinting
    Schedule a fingerprinting appointment with IdentoGO using the agency-specific service code (11HY44). Results are sent directly to the Board.
    Schedule Fingerprinting
  7. Register for the NPTE
    Register for the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) through the FSBPT. The Board will approve your eligibility once other application items are received.
    Register for NPTE
Total Fee
$138
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.
Apply to transfer

Steps

  1. Online Endorsement Application
    Submit the 'Physical Therapist - Initial by Endorsement' application and pay the required fee.
    Apply by Endorsement
  2. Verification of Licensure
    Request official verification of licensure from every state where you have ever held a PT license. Verifications must be sent directly to the Texas Board.
  3. NPTE Score Transfer
    Request an official score report from the FSBPT Score Transfer Service to be sent to Texas.
    Transfer Scores
  4. Complete TX JAM and Fingerprinting
    Endorsement applicants must also complete the Texas Jurisprudence Assessment Module and the criminal background check.
    Endorsement Requirements
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Texas Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners

Keeping Your License Active

Texas Physical Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Texas Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Renew on the board site

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$100
Endorsement application$100
Fingerprint check$38.25
Temporary permitSee board
Renewal50.0

Slow Downs

Incorrect Fingerprint Service Code
Using a generic code or a code for another agency will result in the Board not receiving your results. Ensure you use code 11HY44.
Transcript Delivery Issues
Transcripts must come directly from the registrar. Student-submitted copies or transcripts missing the degree conferral date are rejected.
Name Mismatches
Ensure the name on your application matches your transcripts and your ID exactly to avoid processing delays.
Missing Passport Photo
Applications are not considered complete until a valid 2x2 photo is received by the Board.

Questions

How long does the licensing process take?
Once all required documents and exam scores are received, a license is typically issued within 1 to 4 business days.
Can I get a temporary license in Texas?
Yes, if you have never taken the NPTE, you may apply for a temporary license to practice under supervision while waiting for your exam date.
Does the TX JAM count toward continuing education?
Yes, completing the TX JAM provides 2 Continuing Competence Units (CCUs) that can be applied to your first renewal.
How often must I renew my Texas PT license?
Licenses must be renewed every two years by the end of your birth month.

Board Info

Texas Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners (ECPTOTE)