From board exam to your first assignment — the complete licensure roadmap by discipline.
Register for your board exam ASAP. PT/PTA: NPTE through FSBPT. OT/COTA: NBCOT exam. SLP: Praxis SLP exam through ETS. Study aggressively — first-attempt pass saves months.
Apply for your home state license immediately after passing. Simultaneously apply for compact privilege if your state is a member.
PT/PTA: PT Compact gives you 40+ states with one application. For non-compact states, apply individually. OT/COTA: OT Compact (growing list). SLP: Individual state applications only — start 2-3 states you'd like to work in.
Don't wait for all licenses to arrive. Sign with agencies, start browsing assignments, and begin your compliance packet. Your recruiter can submit you for positions as soon as your license is active.
| Discipline | Exam | Home State License | Compact/Multi-State | Ready to Travel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PT/PTA | 2-4 weeks | 2-4 weeks | Days (compact) | 4-8 weeks |
| OT/COTA | 2-4 weeks | 2-6 weeks | Days-weeks (compact) | 4-10 weeks |
| SLP | 2-4 weeks | 3-8 weeks | 3-8 weeks per state | 6-14 weeks |
SLPs have the longest timeline because there's no compact. Start applications early and in parallel.
Board exam: $500-$700. Home state license: $100-$400. Compact privilege: $75-$150 per state. Individual state licenses: $150-$400 each. Background check: $50-$100.
Total for a new grad PT with compact: approximately $800-$1,200. Total for a new grad SLP with 3 state licenses: approximately $1,500-$2,500.
Most agencies reimburse licensing costs after you start your first assignment. But you'll pay upfront. Factor this into your financial preparation.
Connect with professionals who specialize in placing new grad travelers.