Check your country/state licensing requirements for physical rehabilitation therapy
Earn a bachelor’s degree (commonly pre-physical therapy or a related field)
Complete an accredited entry-level physical therapy degree (Doctor of Physical Therapy or equivalent)
Fulfill required prerequisite coursework (anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, exercise science, statistics)
Complete required clinical education/practicum hours at approved facilities
Pass the required national licensing exam (e.g., for the U.S., the NPTE)
Apply for state/provincial licensing and submit required documentation
Complete any jurisprudence/ethics or state-specific exams (if required)
Maintain licensure through continuing education and required renewals
Consider specialization through residency or fellowship programs (optional)
Pursue board certification in a specialty area (optional, if offered in your region)
Build experience through internships, clinical placements, and entry-level roles
Develop skills in patient assessment, treatment planning, documentation, and outcome measurement
Obtain CPR certification (often required by employers and/or clinical sites)
Join professional organizations and networks (optional but helpful for opportunities)