Therapy Requirements &Certification Page

The Physical Therapy Compact is a game-changer, making it easier for PTs to work across state lines and improve job opportunities. It’s an agreement between member states that boosts mobility for eligible physical therapists, so you can help more people in more places.

Ready to kickstart your Travel therapy journey? Here are the therapy requirements needed to make it happen:

Experience: Got at least 1 year of travel healthcare experience under your belt? You’re in! (Therapists don’t require clinical experience, while therapy assistants do require 1 year of experiencet—new grads, you’re good to apply right away.)

Recent Practice: Make sure you’ve worked in your field for at least 6 months within the last 2 years.

Skills Checklist: Keep it fresh! Submit a Skills Checklist completed within the past year (aim for a 3.0 score or higher).

References: We need two solid references—ideally one from a manager, lead, or supervisor and one from a peer.

Got everything? Let’s get you on the road!

National Certification vs State Licensure

The Physical Therapy Compact Commission, made up of member states, is the powerhouse behind this initiative, ensuring everything runs smoothly and by the book.

In the Therapy world, “Licensure” and “Certification” often get mixed up, but they’re actually two different things. To make it even trickier, these terms can mean different things depending on the law or everyday language.

National Certification

Certification is like your official stamp of approval. It’s proof that you’ve got the skills and expertise in a specific area, granted by private organizations that set the standards. Some certifications you might recognize include National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

State Licensure

State Licensure is your official green light to practice in a regulated profession. It’s how a state grants you the authority to call yourself “licensed” and ready to work. Through “practice acts,” states set up boards to oversee and regulate the profession, all to keep the public safe and ensure quality care.

Not sure which license you need?

Use the nursing licensure guide and United States map below to determine what type of license you may need for your next assignment.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

No. A therapist professional cannot begin an assignment without a state license. Even if they are not working with patients directly, they must be licensed.
You'll need to follow the specific requirements of each state where you plan to work. Typically, this involves completing an application, providing proof of your current therapy license in the discipline you are applying to work in, and sometimes passing additional exams or background checks. It's crucial to start this process well in advance of your desired start date to ensure you have all the necessary travel therapy licensing in place. Contact a specialist for further assistance with licensing.
The time it takes to obtain a therapy license can vary depending on the state and your individual circumstances. Some states have expedited processes for out-of-state applicants, while others may have more extensive requirements or longer processing times. The timing to secure your licensing varies state by state, so we recommend starting as early as possible so you are ready to start your travel assignment.
A temporary license is a “bridge” toward licensure; the end goal is always to upgrade from temporary to permanent. In most cases, a temporary license can be a great option for a quick turnaround, but a traveler will need to pursue permanent licensure to make sure they can complete their assignment. Not all states offer temporary licensure, so be sure to ask a Licensing Specialist about state-specific details.

Start Your Journey Today

Sign Up

Got questions? We’ve got answers.

EmailGive Us A Call