Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in a Related Field Typically, students will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in a field related to health science, exercise, and/or sports. For some graduate programs, students may also be required to complete specific prerequisites, such as courses in physics, kinesiology, biology, chemistry, physiology, and anatomy. Step 2: Pass the NPTE In order to become a licensed physical therapist, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is given by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).  Step 3: Obtain a License to Practice Licensure looks different within each state. Most states require practitioners not only to pass the NPTE but also to fulfill additional criteria, such as compliance training, background checks, etc. To maintain licensure, physical therapists must meet continuing education requirements every two years in most states. Step 4: Complete a Residency Program (optional) A clinical residency is a post-graduate program that includes additional training, coursework, and clinical experiences. A residency is a good way to begin specializing in your area of greatest interest. Step 5: Earn Board Certification (optional) After becoming licensed and gaining work experience in the field, physical therapists have the opportunity to become board-certified clinical specialists through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS).