Louisiana Physical Therapist Licensing Guide

Louisiana PT License Overview

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

For travelers, this means you may be able to work in Louisiana on a PT Compact privilege instead of a Louisiana 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 Louisiana PT License by Endorsement

Louisiana 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 $400 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 Louisiana Physical Therapy Board. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

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

Louisiana PT License Fees

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

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Louisiana Temporary PT License

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

Louisiana PT License Processing Time

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

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 4 weeks (with compact privilege, immediate; for endorsement, 4 weeks if all steps align).

Common sources of delay:

• Board processes applications in batches; applications submitted after monthly cutoff wait additional 30 days
• Jurisprudence exam scheduling may extend timeline if exam dates are limited or exam is failed on first attempt
• License verification from current state via FSBPT can experience delays if source state board is slow to respond

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Louisiana Physical Therapy Board'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.

Louisiana PT Continuing Education

Louisiana requires 20 contact hours of continuing education every year for Physical Therapist license renewal (from our records; confirm with the board).

• Mandatory topics: physical therapy ethics, jurisprudence and state-specific laws

Louisiana PT License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every year, expiring December 31 — $280 via Louisiana Physical Therapy Board portal
• CE topics: physical therapy ethics and Louisiana jurisprudence
• Renewal window: Opens 60 days before expiration
• Late penalty: License becomes lapsed, and must pay late fee and reinstate

Louisiana Licensing Board and Resources

Louisiana Physical Therapy Board

Board Website · Application Portal

Phone: (337) 262-1043

Email: [email protected]