Healthcare Recruiting
How to Get a Physical Therapist License in Louisiana (2026)
Louisiana is a PT Compact member with licensing through the Louisiana State Board of Physical Therapy (LSBPT). New Orleans is anchored by Ochsner Health (the largest regional system in the Gulf South), Tulane Medical Center, LCMC Health, and LSU Health Sciences Center. Baton Rouge adds Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center and Baton Rouge General.
Louisiana PT license at a glance
- Issuing board: Louisiana State Board of Physical Therapy (LSBPT)
- PT Compact member: Yes
- Compact Privilege processing: 1–3 business days
- Endorsement processing: 6–8 weeks
- Application fee: ~$100
- Jurisprudence exam: Required
Louisiana PT compensation 2026
| Setting | Median Base | Sign-On Range |
|---|---|---|
| Outpatient clinic | $74,000 | $3,000–$10,000 |
| Acute care hospital (New Orleans) | $88,000 | $6,000–$16,000 |
| SNF / sub-acute rehab | $84,000 | $5,000–$14,000 |
| Home health | $86,000 | $5,000–$12,000 |
| Travel PT (13-week) | $96,000 + housing stipend | — |
Where PT demand is highest in Louisiana
New Orleans metro: Ochsner Medical Center (flagship, 40+ care centers statewide), Tulane Medical Center, University Medical Center New Orleans, Children's Hospital New Orleans. Baton Rouge: Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center (Franciscan), Baton Rouge General. Shreveport: Willis-Knighton Health System, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport. Rural North Louisiana: HPSA-designated areas with NHSC loan repayment availability.
Bottom line
Louisiana's Compact membership and Ochsner's system scale create a clear path for PTs entering the Gulf South market. New Orleans compensation is among the highest in the region. Rural northern Louisiana has persistent PT shortages with loan repayment incentives.
Related: PT License Florida 2026, Healthcare Recruiting in Louisiana 2026, PT Salary by State 2026.
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