Kentucky Physical Therapist Licensing Guide

Kentucky PT License Overview

Kentucky is a PT Compact member state that is issuing compact privileges.

For travelers, this means you may be able to work in Kentucky on a PT Compact privilege instead of a Kentucky license, provided your home-state license is in another PT Compact state that is also issuing privileges. A compact privilege is something you apply for through the compact before you start; it is not automatic.

How to Get a Kentucky PT License by Endorsement

Kentucky uses a mail/pdf application endorsement process for Physical Therapists already licensed in another state. You'll need to submit your completed application along with supporting documents and the $225 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application by mail
2. Request license verification from current state (via FSBPT or direct) (can run concurrently)
3. Pass state jurisprudence examination (can run concurrently)
4. Await board review and license issuance

License verification is handled through FSBPT or direct board verification. Request verification early so your application is not delayed.

Confirm the current fingerprinting and background check steps with the Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy website for status updates on your application.

Kentucky PT License Fees

Endorsement application and renewal: from our records; confirm with the board.

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Kentucky Temporary PT License

We have not found a temporary license option on the Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy's site. Confirm with the board before planning a start date.

Kentucky PT License Processing Time

Kentucky Physical Therapist endorsement applications typically take 4-6 weeks to process.

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 3 weeks (if jurisprudence exam passed immediately and application complete on first submission).

Common sources of delay:

• Jurisprudence examination must be passed before board review; exam scheduling delays can add 1-2 weeks
• Mail/PDF application submission creates processing lag; no online portal for endorsement applications
• Board review and license issuance cannot run concurrently with application submission; sequential processing adds minimum 2-3 weeks

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy's site. The best way to minimize your wait time is to ensure all application components — fingerprints, verification, and any required exams — are completed before or immediately after submitting your application.

Kentucky PT Continuing Education

Kentucky requires 30 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for Physical Therapist license renewal (from our records; confirm with the board).

• Mandatory topics: jurisprudence and state-specific laws
• Physical Therapist Assistants: 20 contact hours every 2 years (vs 30 for Physical Therapists)

Kentucky PT License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years, expiring December 31 of odd years — $190 via Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy portal
• CE topics: Kentucky jurisprudence
• Renewal window: Opens 60 days before expiration
• Late penalty: License becomes expired, and must reinstate and pay late fee

Kentucky Licensing Board and Resources

Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy

Board Website · Application Portal

Phone: (502) 429-7140

Email: [email protected]