National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for Physical Therapists

The National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for Physical Therapists is the national licensure exam administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). Physical therapy graduates seeking to practice as physical therapists in the United States generally take it as part of the licensing process. Passing the NPTE is not itself a license: candidates must also meet the requirements of the state or jurisdiction where they apply, which may include additional steps. Check the relevant licensing board for current eligibility rules.

The NPTE uses multiple-choice questions to assess entry-level knowledge and clinical judgment across physical therapy practice. Major areas include musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular and pulmonary, integumentary, and other body systems, along with examination, evaluation, diagnosis, interventions, safety, and professional responsibilities. Preparation calls for more than memorizing anatomy: connect kinesiology and biomechanics to patient cases, and review orthopedic and neurologic conditions, clinical decision-making, and appropriate interventions. Use the current FSBPT content outline to guide your review and timed NPTE practice questions to find gaps.