Physical Therapy License Lookup by State: Verify Physical Therapist Status

In the United States, the licensing of physical therapy professionals serves as a critical mechanism for protecting public health and safety. The primary purpose of licensure is to ensure that every practitioner - whether a physical therapist (PT) or a physical therapist assistant (PTA) - possesses the requisite clinical knowledge, educational background (typically a Doctor of Physical Therapy), and ethical standing to treat patients. These state-mandated standards act as a quality control measure, guaranteeing that practitioners are trained to evaluate complex movement dysfunctions and implement safe, evidence-based rehabilitation programs.

Choosing an unlicensed practitioner carries significant risks. Because unlicensed individuals have not passed rigorous national exams (NPTE) or background checks, patients may be subjected to substandard care that could exacerbate existing injuries or cause new physical harm, such as nerve damage or bone fractures. Furthermore, unlicensed practice lacks regulatory oversight, meaning there is no governing board to investigate complaints of professional misconduct, negligence, or fraudulent billing. In the absence of a license, a practitioner also lacks the legal accountability required to maintain professional liability insurance, leaving patients with little recourse in the event of medical malpractice.

To safeguard their well-being, consumers are encouraged to verify the credentials of their providers. State regulatory authorities, such as state physical therapy boards, offer online license lookup tools that are generally free to use. These portals allow the public to search by name or license number to confirm a professional's status and check for any history of disciplinary action. Utilizing these resources ensures that the therapist is not only qualified but currently authorized by the state to provide care

Licensing requirements for Physical Therapists vary from State to State. To facilitate the verification of the license status of practitioners, most States provide Physical Therapy License Lookup web tools as detailed below. A few States do not provide such online Physical Therapy License Lookup or verification, so for States not listed below, please contact the appropriate State Physical Therapy Board for additional information. License lookup tools for other health practitioners can be found at Health License Lookup or, for lookup tools organized by State, at U.S. Medical License Lookup. To find National Provider Identifier (NPI) numbers, go to NPI NUMBER Lookup.