North Dakota Physical Therapist Licensing Guide

North Dakota PT License Overview

North Dakota is a PT Compact member state that is issuing compact privileges.

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

North Dakota uses an online 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 $200 application fee.

1. Submit the application for licensure by endorsement online
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.

Background check: Fingerprint-based statewide and nationwide criminal history record check; you pay its costs. Submit your fingerprinting authorization as early as possible.

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

North Dakota PT License Fees

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

North Dakota Temporary PT License

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

North Dakota PT License Processing Time

North Dakota Physical Therapist endorsement applications typically take 2-6 weeks to process.

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 10 business days.

Common sources of delay:

• Jurisprudence exam is a mandatory sequential step after application review; cannot be taken until board processes initial application
• Endorsement needs license verification from every jurisdiction where you are currently licensed and your exam scores sent by a board-approved score transfer service; request both early
• Board processes applications in batches rather than continuously, so timing of submission relative to board meeting cycle affects turnaround

We have not found an expedited processing option on the North Dakota 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.

North Dakota PT Continuing Education

North Dakota requires 25 contact hours of continuing education every year for Physical Therapist license renewal (from our records; confirm with the board).

North Dakota PT License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every year — $100 via North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy portal
• Renewal timing: Licenses not renewed annually by January 31 expire (annual renewal).
• Renewal window: Opens November 1 through January 31 (renewals open November 1; deadline January 31)
• Late penalty: You may not practice until you renew and may owe a late renewal fee, and the board may reinstate an expired license for the renewal fee plus a reinstatement fee

North Dakota Licensing Board and Resources

North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy

Board Website · Application Portal

Phone: 701-352-0125