Compact PT and Non-Compact PT License Guide

All things licensure in just 2 Minutes ⏱️

PT Compact = Multi-State Licensing Agreement

This is a HUGE advantage and cost saver for travelers.

By definition, the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact is an interstate agreement that allows licensed PTs in member states to practice in other member states without obtaining separate licenses for each state.

Compact Privileges are only accessible if your home state is an Active Member State.

For those of you living in one of the 16 non-member states, you will have to apply for each state license directly through the State Licensing Board. (Process covered below)

Click to visit the official PT Compact License Website and apply for privileges.

Begin Your Journey!

Curious? Hit the link below to schedule a free consultation with a vetted Travel PT recruiter.

All recruiters with The PT Underground are DPTs and former travelers.

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How It Works

Without the PT Compact:

You get licensed in State A
You want to work in State B → Must apply for a separate license in State B (4-8 weeks, $100-400 fee)
You want to work in State C → Must apply for a separate license in State C (4-8 weeks, $100-400 fee)
Result: Multiple licenses, multiple applications, lots of time and money

With the PT Compact:

You get licensed in your home state (must be a Compact member)
Purchase a "Compact privilege" for the new state you'll be working in, and take the jurisprudence exam ($50-250 online payment, 1-3 business days)
You can work in as many Compact states as you want with just ONE home license
Result: One license, faster process, lower cost

Active vs. Inactive States

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin

16 Non - Compact states

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

California, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Wyoming

Pending:

Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan

Compact PT and Non-Compact PT License Guide

All things licensure in just 2 Minutes ⏱️

Begin Your Journey!

Why The Compact Matters

Compact Privileges are one of the travelers biggest advantages.

How It Works

Without the PT Compact:

With the PT Compact:

Active vs. Inactive States

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

16 Non - Compact states

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

State Licensing Board Links (for non- compact PTs)

Ready to Navigate Your First Contract?

Compact PT and Non-Compact PT License Guide

All things licensure in just 2 Minutes ⏱️

Begin Your Journey!

Why The Compact Matters

Compact Privileges are one of the travelers biggest advantages.

How It Works

Without the PT Compact:

With the PT Compact:

Active vs. Inactive States

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

16 Non - Compact states

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

37 Active PT Compact Member States:

State Licensing Board Links (for non- compact PTs)

Ready to Navigate Your First Contract?

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