How to become a physical therapy technician

Do you enjoy working with people and want to make a difference in their physical recovery? Discover how to become a physical therapy technician, a role that supports patients and physical therapists in achieving rehabilitation goals.

What does a physical therapy technician do?

Physical therapy technicians, or aides, assist and support licensed physical therapists. Most physical therapy technicians work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, or rehabilitation centers. They can perform many tasks, including:

• Prepare therapy spaces and ensure equipment is clean and functional
• Help patients with rehabilitation exercises under supervision
• Manage treatment records and administrative tasks
• Support physical therapists in creating a safe and effective therapy environment

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), similar roles such as physical therapy aides earned a median annual salary of $33,520 (2023).

Steps to become a physical therapy technician

You can consider the following steps to become a physical therapy technician:

Step 1: Earn a high school diploma or equivalent

To become a physical therapy technician, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. Science-based courses such as biology can give you the foundational knowledge for a career in physical therapy.

Step 2: Enroll in a physical therapy technician program

Physical therapy technician programs focus on rehabilitation techniques, patient care, and equipment handling. They can take between 6–12 months to complete.

Select a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education to be sure your education meets high standards and is recognized in the industry.

Step 3: Gain hands-on experience

Building practical skills is essential, and many training programs include clinical rotations or internships to give you real-world experience.

Volunteering at a local rehab center or clinic is another good way to get practical experience, work directly with patients, and learn more about providing care.

Step 4: Obtain licensure (if required)

While not all states require physical therapy technicians to be licensed, earning licensure can boost your job prospects and show your dedication to maintaining high standards in patient safety.

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