Delaware Physical Therapist License: Requirements & How to Apply (2026)

Who This Guide Is For

• Physical therapists applying for a new Delaware license by examination or reciprocity
• PTs relocating to Delaware from another state, including reciprocity applicants already licensed elsewhere
• Travel physical therapists evaluating Delaware assignments, including those planning to use PT Compact privileges instead of a full license

Delaware Licensing Overview

Delaware requires anyone practicing physical therapy in the state to hold a license issued by the Examining Board of Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers, part of the Division of Professional Regulation. This requirement applies even to therapists already licensed in another state — Delaware does not automatically recognize out-of-state licenses outside of the PT Compact privilege process.

Two standard pathways exist: licensure by examination for first-time applicants who need to sit for the NPTE, and licensure by reciprocity for applicants already licensed in another jurisdiction. A temporary license by examination is also available for applicants awaiting their NPTE results who meet the Board’s interim requirements.

PT Compact

Delaware is an active member of the PT Compact and both issues and accepts compact privileges. A therapist holding an active Delaware license can obtain a compact privilege to practice in other member states without seeking a separate full license in each one. Compact privileges are purchased individually per remote state and remain tied to the status of the underlying home-state license — if the Delaware license lapses or is placed on inactive status, associated compact privileges are affected as well.

Requirements

• Graduation from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy program (transitional DPT degrees do not satisfy the original education requirement; foreign-trained applicants require a credential evaluation through FCCPT)
• Passage of the NPTE with the FSBPT-set passing score of 600
• Delaware and FBI fingerprint-based criminal background check completed through IdentoGO — background checks completed for other purposes, including licensure in other states, are not accepted
• Entry of a U.S. Social Security Number in DELPROS, or a formal attestation that one has never been issued
• Official transcripts sent directly from the applicant’s PT program

How to Apply

1. Create a DELPROS user account and select the Physical Therapist license type
2. Choose your pathway — by examination or by reciprocity — and complete the corresponding application
3. Submit official transcripts directly from your PT program and, for exam applicants, register with FSBPT for the NPTE
4. Complete the Delaware/FBI criminal background check through IdentoGO
5. Pay the applicable fee by credit or debit card through DELPROS
6. The Board reviews complete applications at its next scheduled monthly meeting (fourth Tuesday, except May and November)

Relevant Statutes

• 24 Del. C. Chapter 26 — Physical Therapy and Athletic Training
• 24 Del. Admin. Code 2600 — Board Rules and Regulations

Related Pages

• Delaware PT License Renewal Guide
• Physical Therapist Licensing — All States

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Delaware license if I’m already licensed as a PT in another state? Yes. Delaware law requires a Delaware license before practicing in the state regardless of licensure elsewhere, though the PT Compact provides an alternative pathway for compact privileges. DPR Physical Therapy FAQ

Is there a Delaware jurisprudence exam? No. Delaware’s official FAQ states directly that there is no examination on Delaware law and regulations, and that the TOEFL is not required. DPR Physical Therapy FAQ

What NPTE score do I need to pass? Delaware’s official FAQ states the passing score is 600, the criterion-referenced score set by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. DPR Physical Therapy FAQ

Is Delaware in the PT Compact? Yes. Delaware is one of 37 active member states currently issuing and accepting compact privileges, and has enacted the compact into state law. 24 Del. C. Chapter 26C — Physical Therapy Licensure Compact | PT Compact Commission member map

What kind of background check does Delaware require? A Delaware and FBI fingerprint-based criminal background check completed through IdentoGO. Checks completed for other purposes, including licensure elsewhere, are not accepted. DPR New Applicant Requirements page

What licensing pathways does Delaware offer? Licensure by Examination, Licensure by Reciprocity for applicants already licensed elsewhere, and a Temporary License by Examination for applicants awaiting NPTE results. DPR Physical Therapy FAQ