Complete licensure guide for travel PTs, PTAs, OTs, COTAs, and SLPs working in Michigan — including board contacts, fees, processing times, and compact membership status.
Last updated 2026-07-28. Licensing requirements and processing times change — verify current rules with the Michigan licensing board before you apply.
https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/bpl/health/hp-lic-health-prof/physical-therapy
This is the official licensing authority for physical therapists, occupational therapists, and/or speech-language pathologists in Michigan.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| PT Application Fee | $150 |
| OT Application Fee | $150 |
| SLP Application Fee | $100 |
| Processing Time | 4–6 weeks |
| Temporary License | No |
| CE Requirements | 30 hrs/2yr |
| PT Compact | Enacted, not issuing yet |
| OT Compact | Enacted, not issuing yet |
Membership and issuing are different things: 3 jurisdictions have enacted the PT Compact without issuing a single privilege yet. Our Compact Eligibility Checker takes your home state and your destination and tells you whether a privilege is actually available today — 38 PT, 8 OT and 4 ASLP-IC jurisdictions are issuing as of 2026-08-27.
Not yet — Michigan has enacted the PT Compact but is not issuing privileges yet, according to the PT Compact Commission, so PTs and PTAs still need a full endorsement application. Learn more about the PT Compact → · Full PT Compact guide
Not yet — Michigan has enacted the OT Compact but is not issuing privileges yet, so OTs and COTAs need a full Michigan license for now (OT Compact Commission, verified September 30, 2026). Learn more about the OT Compact →
SLPs must complete a full endorsement application. No formal SLP interstate compact is currently active. See our SLP Compact status page for updates.
Michigan has enacted the PT Compact but is not issuing privileges yet. Michigan has enacted the OT Compact but is not issuing privileges yet. Online applications available. Processing is generally on the faster side for a larger state. SNF and outpatient markets are both active for travel therapists.
Confirm your current license is active and unencumbered. If applying via compact, confirm both your home state and Michigan are compact members.
Typically required: diploma verification, NPTE/NBCOT/Praxis scores, license verifications from all current states, background check, and professional references.
Complete the online application through the Michigan licensing board portal. Pay all required fees. Submit supporting documents as instructed.
Most states require fingerprinting and/or a criminal background check. Processing time for this step varies — factor it into your overall timeline.
Check application status online or by contacting the board directly. Follow up if processing exceeds the estimated timeframe.
Once issued, verify your license number and expiration date. Note your CE deadline and renewal date immediately.
A travel therapy recruiter who specializes in Michigan can guide you through the application process, help you avoid common mistakes, and coordinate timing with your next assignment.
Get help navigating this state's licensing process from a travel therapy specialist.
Typical processing time is 4–6 weeks for a traditional endorsement application. Michigan does not issue PT Compact privileges yet, so PTs and PTAs use the endorsement route. Always verify current timelines directly with the Michigan licensing board as processing times can change.
Yes. Michigan accepts out-of-state licensure by endorsement. You'll need to submit verification of your current state license(s), educational credentials, and national exam scores. Requirements vary by discipline.
Not yet. Michigan has enacted the PT Compact but is not issuing privileges yet, according to the PT Compact Commission, so PTs and PTAs still need a full Michigan license. Check the Commission's compact map for changes.
Michigan requires 30 hrs/2yr of continuing education for license renewal. Requirements may differ slightly by discipline (PT vs OT vs SLP). Always verify the specific CE requirements for your discipline with the Michigan licensing board before your renewal deadline.