Travel Therapy Requirements

PT: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from an accredited program + NPTE. OT: Master's or Doctorate in OT (MOT/OTD) from accredited program + NBCOT. SLP: Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology + Praxis + CCC-SLP. PTA: Associate degree from accredited PTA program + NPTE-PTA. COTA: Associate degree from accredited OTA program + NBCOT-COTA.

Active state license in every state where you practice. The PT Compact and OT Compact simplify this for PTs, PTAs, OTs, and COTAs. SLPs and audiologists can use the ASLP-IC in the states that issue its privileges and need individual state licenses elsewhere. Each state board sets its own processing time. See our compact states directory.

BLS/CPR: Required by virtually every facility. AHA BLS for Healthcare Providers is most accepted. ACLS: Some acute care settings require this. Specialty certifications (NCS, OCS, CHT, etc.) aren't required but can open higher-paying positions.

Every facility requires a compliance packet. See our complete credentialing guide for the full list. Key items: immunization titers (MMR, Varicella, Hep B), TB test, flu shot, drug screening, background check, professional references, and skills checklists.

There is no universal minimum. Many agencies and facilities accept new graduates, especially for SNFs and outpatient. Acute care and specialty settings often want prior experience. See our settings guide for new-grad accessibility by setting. New grads should read the dedicated New Grad Guide.

You'll need savings to cover upfront costs: housing deposits, licensing fees, moving expenses, and an emergency buffer. You also need a valid tax home to receive non-taxable stipends.