How to Get a Physical Therapist License in Tennessee
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Tennessee is a rapidly growing market with Nashville leading as one of the hottest cities in the US, making it an excellent place to start a career as a physical therapist. Licensing in Tennessee is overseen by the Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy. The process requires 4500 hours of pre-license education and costs between $81,500 and $82,500 in total. You'll need to pass the NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination (administered by Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy) with a score of at least 70%.
At 4500 hours, Tennessee has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 4500 hours. Budget between $81,500 and $82,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring physical therapists complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
Tennessee Physical Therapist License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 4500 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $115 |
| Exam Fee | $485 |
| Governing Body | Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Physical Therapist License in Tennessee
- 1
Earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Degree
Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited DPT program. DPT programs require a bachelor's degree for admission and take 3 years to complete.
Time: 7 years (4-year bachelor's + 3-year DPT) Cost: $350 - 2
Pass the NPTE
Register and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) administered by the FSBPT. The exam covers musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and integumentary systems. The exam fee is $485.
Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule Cost: $485 - 3
Pass the Jurisprudence Exam (if required)
Many states require a jurisprudence exam on state-specific PT practice laws. Check the Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy for your state's requirements.
Time: 1-2 weeks - 4
Apply for State Licensure
Submit your application to the Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy. Include NPTE scores, DPT transcripts, and the application fee of $115.
Time: 2-6 weeks for processing Cost: $115 - 5
Begin Your Physical Therapy Career
Once licensed, you can practice physical therapy in Tennessee. PTs work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, sports medicine, home health, and private practice.
Time: Immediate once licensed
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination is administered by Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: Tennessee requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Tennessee accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. .
How Tennessee Compares
Tennessee requires 4500 hours of pre-license education for physical therapists. This is close to the national average of 4500 hours. The average total cost in Tennessee is around $82,000, compared to the national average of $85,360.
How Much Does a Physical Therapist License Cost in Tennessee?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $115 |
| Exam Fee | $485 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $81,500 - $82,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education: 24 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $115
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 4500 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Maximize your clinical rotations: Your DPT clinical rotations expose you to different practice settings. Request placements in areas that interest you — orthopedic, neurological, pediatric, or sports PT — to discover your specialty and build connections.
- Use FSBPT practice exams and study tools: The FSBPT offers official NPTE practice exams and the PEAT tool. Scoring 600+ on the PEAT strongly predicts passing the NPTE. Budget 2-3 months of dedicated study after graduation.
- Budget approximately $82,500 for your Tennessee license: This includes $115 in application fees, $485 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $115 in renewal fees every 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a physical therapist license in Tennessee?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (4500 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a physical therapist license in Tennessee?
The total cost ranges from $81,500 to $82,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($115), and the exam fee ($485).
Can I get a Tennessee physical therapist license with a criminal record?
The Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a physical therapist in Tennessee?
No. Tennessee does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 4500 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Tennessee?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: Tennessee Board of Physical Therapy