Army 68F Physical Therapy Specialist to Civilian: Your Complete Career Transition Roadmap (With Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

Army 68F Physical Therapy Specialists transitioning out—you're not just leaving the military, you're entering one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions in America with projected 16% job growth through 2034. Your patient care experience, therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, gait training, manual therapy techniques, rehabilitation documentation, equipment operation, and clinical assessment skills make you highly competitive for civilian Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) positions. Realistic first-year salaries range from $50,000-$65,000 for entry-level PTAs after passing the NPTE, scaling to $70,000-$85,000 with 5+ years experience. Specialized PTAs in orthopedics, sports medicine, or acute care can earn $75,000-$95,000+, while therapy clinic managers command $85,000-$110,000+. If you bridge to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), salaries jump to $80,000-$100,000+. You've got options—choose strategically.

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 68F separating hears two opposite narratives: "Your military PT experience translates perfectly to civilian physical therapy," and "You'll need extensive additional education and licensing."

Both are partially true. Here's the reality: Your 68F clinical experience translates directly to Physical Therapist Assistant roles—but you must pass the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam) and earn state PTA licensure to practice legally.

You didn't just "help with physical therapy." You:

Provided direct patient care implementing treatment plans designed by licensed physical therapists
Administered therapeutic exercises, stretching, strengthening, and functional mobility training to 500+ patients
Applied physical therapy modalities including ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hot/cold therapy, and traction
Conducted gait training, transfer training, and assisted with ambulation using assistive devices
Performed manual therapy techniques including soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization
Documented patient progress, treatment responses, and functional outcomes in electronic health records
Operated rehabilitation equipment including parallel bars, treatment tables, exercise equipment, and modality devices
Educated patients and families on home exercise programs, body mechanics, and injury prevention
Assessed patient vital signs, pain levels, and range of motion before, during, and after treatments

That's clinical rehabilitation expertise, patient education, therapeutic intervention, and healthcare documentation. The civilian physical therapy world needs exactly these skills—you just need the PTA license that allows you to practice legally and get paid what you're worth.

Best civilian career paths for Army 68F Physical Therapy Specialists

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where 68F specialists consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (most common path)

Civilian job titles:

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Orthopedic Physical Therapist Assistant
Sports Medicine PTA
Acute Care PTA (hospital-based)
Outpatient Rehabilitation PTA
Geriatric Physical Therapist Assistant
Pediatric PTA

Salary ranges:

Entry-level PTA (0-2 years): $50,000-$65,000
Experienced PTA (3-7 years): $60,000-$75,000
Senior PTA (8+ years): $70,000-$85,000
Specialized PTAs (sports medicine, acute care): $75,000-$95,000
Travel PTA (13-week contracts): $1,200-$1,800/week ($62K-$94K annually)
National median salary (BLS 2024): $65,510
Top 10% earners: $87,630+
Hourly rates: $28-$42/hour

Geographic salary variations (2024 data):

California: $72,000-$95,000 (highest-paying state)
Texas: $68,000-$85,000
New Jersey: $70,000-$88,000
New York: $68,000-$82,000
Florida: $55,000-$70,000

What translates directly:

All hands-on patient treatment and therapeutic interventions
Exercise prescription and instruction
Physical therapy modalities and equipment operation
Patient assessment and progress documentation
Gait training and functional mobility
Manual therapy techniques
Patient and family education
Treatment plan implementation under PT supervision

Certifications needed:

Associate degree from CAPTE-accredited PTA program: Most 68F specialists can apply for advanced standing or military pathway programs. Some schools accept military training for course credits. Cost: $0 with GI Bill (2-year degree). If you don't have this, it's required before sitting for NPTE.
NPTE for PTAs (National Physical Therapy Examination): Required in all 50 states for PTA licensure. Cost: $485 exam fee + $82.60 Prometric testing fee = $567.60 total. Pass rate: approximately 90% for first-time test takers. Study time: 2-4 months.
State PTA license: Each state requires licensure. Application fees: $50-$200. Background checks required.
CPR/BLS certification: Required by all employers. Cost: $50-$100.

Reality check: Here's the challenge: Most states require you to graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program before sitting for the NPTE. Your 68F training alone doesn't satisfy this requirement in most states, even though your clinical skills are equivalent or superior to most PTA graduates.

Your best pathways:

Military bridge programs: Lake Superior College offers a PTA Military Bridge program specifically for 68F specialists. You may get advanced standing and complete the degree faster than traditional 2 years.
Advanced standing in civilian PTA programs: Some schools evaluate military transcripts (JST—Joint Services Transcript) and grant credit for 68F training, reducing time to degree completion to 12-18 months.
Challenge exams and portfolio assessment: A few states allow experienced practitioners to demonstrate competency through portfolio review and challenge exams, though this is rare for PTAs.
Online/hybrid PTA programs: Use your GI Bill for accelerated online programs with clinical rotations in your area. Programs like Pima Medical Institute, Keiser University, and St. Catherine University offer flexible options for veterans.

The investment pays off: Median PTA salary is $65,510—significantly higher than military E-5 or E-6 pay. The field is growing 16% through 2034 (much faster than average), with 26,400 openings projected annually.

Licensed PTAs work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home health, sports medicine clinics, and schools. You choose your setting based on your interests and lifestyle preferences.

Best for: 68F specialists willing to complete PTA degree requirements (12-24 months with military credits), who want a stable healthcare career with excellent growth prospects and direct patient care.

Corporate Physical Therapy Chains (fastest hiring path)

Major employers actively hiring 68F veterans:

ATI Physical Therapy: 900+ clinics across 25 states. Starting PTA salary: $55,000-$70,000. Military-friendly hiring, structured mentorship, CEU allowances, competitive benefits. Rated 3.1/5 by employees.
Select Medical (NovaCare Rehabilitation): 1,800+ locations nationwide. Starting PTA salary: $58,000-$72,000. Excellent training programs, career advancement paths.
Athletico Physical Therapy: 900+ clinics in 25 states. Starting PTA salary: $56,000-$70,000. Sports medicine focus, performance bonuses.
Pivot Physical Therapy: 350+ locations. Starting PTA salary: $55,000-$68,000. Employee-owned, strong culture.
Rehab Without Walls (post-acute rehabilitation): Starting PTA salary: $60,000-$75,000. Home health and neuro-rehab focus.

Salary ranges:

Entry-level PTA at corporate chains: $55,000-$70,000
Experienced PTA (3+ years): $65,000-$80,000
Senior/Lead PTA: $75,000-$90,000
Regional trainer/clinical specialist: $80,000-$95,000

What translates directly: Everything from your 68F training, plus corporate chains value high patient volume productivity, documentation efficiency, and ability to work independently under PT supervision.

Certifications needed:

NPTE and state PTA license (required)
CPR/BLS (required)
APTA membership (preferred—$150-$300/year)

Reality check: Corporate chains hire new PTA graduates and military-trained PTAs aggressively because they have high patient volumes and structured training systems. They're excellent first civilian positions.

Why? They offer new-graduate mentorship, continuing education allowances ($1,000-$2,500/year), standardized documentation systems, flexible scheduling, and clear advancement paths from staff PTA to senior PTA to clinic director.

ATI Physical Therapy specifically recruits veterans and understands military training. Select Medical's NovaCare division has partnerships with military transition programs.

The pace is faster than military PT clinics—you'll treat 10-15 patients daily (each for 30-60 minutes). Productivity expectations are high, but so is earning potential with bonuses tied to patient volume and outcomes.

Starting salaries ($55K-$70K) are competitive, and experienced PTAs at these chains earn $70K-$85K within 3-5 years. Benefits typically include health insurance, 401k with matching, PTO (15-25 days), and CEU funding.

If you want to specialize (sports medicine, orthopedics, geriatrics), these chains offer specialty residencies and mentorship programs that accelerate your expertise.

Best for: 68F specialists with PTA license who want immediate employment, structured corporate environments, mentorship, and plan to build experience for 2-5 years before potentially moving to private practice or specialty settings.

VA Healthcare System (best benefits and job security)

Civilian job titles:

Physical Therapy Assistant (GS-7 to GS-9)
Senior Physical Therapy Assistant (GS-9 to GS-11)
Physical Therapy Clinic Coordinator
Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant (cross-trained PT/OT)

Salary ranges:

GS-7 Physical Therapy Assistant: $44,000-$57,000 (varies by locality)
GS-8 PTA: $49,000-$63,000
GS-9 Senior PTA: $54,000-$70,000
GS-11 Lead PTA/Coordinator: $66,000-$85,000
With locality pay adjustments: Add 15-35% in high-cost areas (DC, NYC, SF, LA)

What translates directly:

All your 68F clinical rehabilitation skills
Military medical documentation and VA electronic health records (CPRS)
Understanding of military/VA patient populations (TBI, amputations, PTSD, blast injuries)
Security clearance (if still active—advantage for VA hiring)
Veteran preference in federal hiring (5-10 point preference)

Certifications needed:

NPTE and state PTA license: Required
CPR/BLS: Required
Federal background check: Standard for VA employment

Reality check: VA hiring is slower (3-6 months from application to start date), but the benefits are exceptional: federal health insurance (FEHB), pension (FERS), TSP matching (5%), 13-26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 federal holidays, job security, and clear promotion paths.

As a veteran, you get hiring preference. If you're a disabled veteran (10% or higher VA rating), you get 10-point preference, putting you at the top of hiring lists for federal jobs.

VA physical therapy departments specifically need PTAs who understand military injuries—blast-related TBI, combat amputations, PTSD comorbidities, complex orthopedic trauma, and the warrior mindset. Your 68F background and veteran status make you uniquely qualified to connect with and treat VA patients.

The GS pay scale means predictable advancement: Start at GS-7 ($44K-$57K), promote to GS-8 after 1 year with good performance ($49K-$63K), then GS-9 after 2-3 years ($54K-$70K). With continued performance and time-in-grade, you can reach GS-11 ($66K-$85K) within 5-8 years.

The federal pension is substantial: Work 20+ years, retire with pension paying 40-60% of your high-3 average salary, plus TSP (with compound growth from matching), plus Social Security. That's a secure retirement comparable to military pension.

VA also offers student loan repayment ($10,000+ annually for hard-to-fill positions), relocation allowances, and tuition assistance if you want to bridge to DPT.

Best for: 68F specialists who want job security, excellent benefits, serve veteran populations, and prefer the structure and mission of federal service over private sector compensation volatility.

Acute Care/Hospital Physical Therapy (higher complexity, higher pay)

Civilian job titles:

Acute Care Physical Therapist Assistant
Inpatient Rehabilitation PTA
ICU Rehabilitation Assistant
Trauma/Orthopedic PTA
Stroke/Neuro Rehabilitation PTA

Salary ranges:

Hospital-based PTA: $60,000-$80,000
Acute care PTA (ICU, trauma): $70,000-$90,000
Inpatient rehabilitation PTA: $65,000-$82,000
Weekend/evening differential: Additional $3-$8/hour
Major medical centers (Mayo, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins): $72,000-$95,000

What translates directly:

High-acuity patient care and medical complexity
Working with trauma, post-surgical, and critically ill patients
Interdisciplinary team collaboration (physicians, nurses, OTs, SLPs)
Handling medical equipment (ventilators, IV lines, monitors)
Documentation in complex electronic health record systems
Responding to rapid patient status changes

Certifications needed:

NPTE and state PTA license (required)
CPR/BLS (required)
ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)—preferred for ICU/acute care ($200-$300)
Specialty certifications through APTA (orthopedics, geriatrics, neurology)—optional but valuable

Reality check: Hospital-based physical therapy is more medically complex than outpatient clinics. You'll treat patients post-surgery (joint replacements, spinal surgeries, cardiac surgeries), stroke survivors, trauma victims, and critically ill patients in ICU settings.

Your 68F experience with military patients—many of whom had complex trauma, burns, amputations, TBI, and multi-system injuries—prepares you exceptionally well for acute care environments. Civilian PTAs without military backgrounds often struggle with the intensity and medical complexity.

Major hospital systems (HCA Healthcare, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Kaiser Permanente, Johns Hopkins, NYU Langone) actively recruit PTAs for inpatient rehabilitation. They offer:

Higher salaries ($65K-$90K) than outpatient clinics
Shift differentials for evenings/weekends/nights (additional $5K-$12K annually)
Excellent benefits with large healthcare systems
Advanced training and CEU opportunities
Exposure to diverse patient populations and complex cases

The work is demanding—lifting patients, working with confused or agitated patients, managing multiple competing priorities, and collaborating with large medical teams. But if you enjoyed the medical complexity and intensity of military medical environments, acute care is your niche.

Career progression: Start as staff PTA ($65K-$75K), advance to senior PTA ($75K-$85K), then rehabilitation coordinator or manager ($85K-$110K+).

Best for: 68F specialists who thrive in fast-paced, medically complex environments, want higher salaries, and prefer hospital settings to outpatient clinics.

Travel Physical Therapist Assistant (highest short-term pay)

Civilian job titles:

Travel Physical Therapist Assistant
Contract PTA (13-week assignments)
Per diem PTA

Salary ranges:

Travel PTA (13-week contracts): $1,200-$1,800/week gross ($62K-$94K annually)
Per diem PTA (local contracts): $40-$60/hour (no benefits)
High-demand locations (rural, underserved): Up to $2,000+/week
Housing stipend (if applicable): $1,000-$2,000/month (tax-free)
Meal per diem: $200-$400/month (tax-free)

What translates directly:

Adaptability to new clinical environments (just like PCS moves)
Ability to integrate quickly into new teams
Clinical competence across diverse patient populations
Self-directed learning and problem-solving
Flexibility with living situations and travel

Certifications needed:

NPTE and state PTA license (required)
Compact license (if working in Compact states—allows practice in multiple states with one license)
CPR/BLS (required)
Professional liability insurance ($150-$300/year)

Reality check: Travel therapy is lucrative but requires flexibility, independence, and comfort with change. You'll work 13-week contracts in different locations (your choice), live in temporary housing (often provided), and move every 3-6 months.

Major travel therapy companies:

AMN Healthcare/Club Staffing: Largest travel therapy company
Fusion Medical Staffing: Veteran-friendly, excellent benefits
Med Travelers: Competitive pay packages
Core Medical Group: Strong reputation in PT staffing

Weekly pay of $1,400-$1,800 sounds great, but understand what it includes: Taxable base rate ($800-$1,200/week) plus tax-free stipends for housing and meals ($400-$600/week)—but you must maintain a tax home to receive tax-free stipends.

Travel PTAs work in understaffed facilities (rural hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics with staffing gaps). You're filling temporary needs, so you must be competent, independent, and able to learn new documentation systems quickly.

Lifestyle benefits: You choose your locations (want to try living in Colorado? Hawaii? Arizona?), control your schedule (take 1-2 months off between contracts), and earn significantly more than permanent staff PTAs.

After 2-3 years of travel, many PTAs settle into permanent positions with 3-5 years of diverse experience commanding $75K-$85K salaries.

Best for: 68F specialists with PTA license, no family ties keeping them in one location, who want to travel, maximize short-term earnings ($70K-$90K+), and gain diverse clinical experience.

Bridge to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)—long-term highest earning

Civilian job titles:

Physical Therapist (DPT)
Orthopedic Physical Therapist
Sports Medicine Physical Therapist
Clinical Director/Clinic Owner

Salary ranges:

Entry-level Physical Therapist: $70,000-$85,000
Experienced PT (5+ years): $80,000-$100,000
Specialized PT (sports medicine, orthopedics): $90,000-$115,000
PT Clinic Director: $95,000-$130,000
PT practice owner: $120,000-$200,000+

Education requirements:

PTA to DPT bridge programs: Only 3-4 accredited programs nationwide (University of Findlay, UTMB, Concordia Wisconsin, New England Institute of Technology)
Traditional DPT pathway: Complete bachelor's degree (if you don't have one—use GI Bill), then 3-year DPT program (also covered by GI Bill if benefits remain)
Total time investment: 3-5 years depending on pathway
Total cost: $0-$50,000 (GI Bill covers most, may need private loans for living expenses)

Reality check: Advancing from PTA to PT significantly increases earning potential ($65K to $90K+ median), autonomy (you evaluate patients and design treatment plans), and career options (clinic ownership, specialty practice, teaching).

The challenge: Very few PTA-to-DPT bridge programs exist. Most 68F specialists pursuing DPT must complete a bachelor's degree first (2-3 years), then apply to traditional DPT programs (3 years). That's 5-6 years total.

Is it worth it? If you're young (under 30), have no dependents, and are passionate about physical therapy as a 20-30 year career, yes. The salary difference ($25K-$35K more annually) over a 30-year career equals $750K-$1M+ in additional lifetime earnings.

If you're over 35 with family obligations, the 5-6 year investment may not make financial sense. You could work as a PTA earning $65K-$85K immediately versus being a full-time student for 5-6 years.

Best for: Young 68F specialists (under 30) passionate about physical therapy, willing to invest 5-6 years in education for significantly higher long-term earning potential and career autonomy.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Army 68F Physical Therapy Specialist" on your resume and assuming civilian employers understand what that means. Translate it:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
68F Physical Therapy Specialist	Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with 4+ years clinical rehabilitation experience
Therapeutic exercise instruction	Designed and instructed 1,000+ individualized therapeutic exercise programs for orthopedic, neurological, and post-surgical patients
Physical therapy modalities	Administered ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hot/cold therapy, and traction to 500+ patients with documented pain reduction and functional improvement
Gait training and functional mobility	Conducted mobility training for 300+ patients post-injury/surgery, improving ambulation independence by 80%
Manual therapy techniques	Performed soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and stretching techniques on 400+ patients with documented ROM improvements
Patient assessment and documentation	Conducted initial assessments, documented progress notes, and discharge summaries for 600+ patient cases using electronic health records
Rehabilitation equipment operation	Operated parallel bars, treatment tables, therapeutic exercise equipment, CPM machines, and modality devices for 1,000+ treatment sessions
Patient and family education	Educated 500+ patients and families on home exercise programs, body mechanics, and injury prevention with 95% compliance rates

Use quantifiable results: "Treated 15-20 patients daily in high-volume outpatient clinic," "Achieved 92% patient satisfaction scores across 500+ treatment episodes," "Reduced patient fall risk by 40% through targeted balance and strengthening interventions."

Drop military jargon. Don't write "provided rehabilitation services to brigade combat team soldiers." Write "treated 500+ orthopedic, post-surgical, and sports injury patients in fast-paced military medical facility."

Certifications that actually matter

Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill as a 68F transitioning out:

High priority (get these):

CAPTE-accredited PTA degree (if you don't have it) - Required in all 50 states to sit for NPTE. Cost: $0 with GI Bill (2-year associate degree). Time: 12-24 months with military credits/advanced standing. Value: Required for licensure—non-negotiable. Research military-friendly programs: Lake Superior College Military Bridge, Pima Medical Institute, Keiser University.

NPTE for PTAs (National Physical Therapy Examination) - Required for state licensure in all 50 states. Cost: $485 exam + $82.60 testing fee = $567.60. Time: 2-4 months study preparation. Pass rate: ~90% first attempt. Value: Required for legal PTA practice and employment. Study resources: TherapyEd ($200-$400), Scorebuilders ($150-$300).

State PTA License - Required in all 50 states. Cost: $50-$200 application fee + background check. Time: 4-8 weeks processing. Value: Non-negotiable—you cannot work as PTA without state license. Research your state's requirements at Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (fsbpt.org).

CPR/BLS Certification - Required by all employers. Cost: $50-$100. Time: 4-8 hours. Renew every 2 years. Get through American Heart Association.

Medium priority (if it fits your career path):

APTA membership (American Physical Therapy Association) - Professional association for PTs and PTAs. Cost: $150-$300/year (discounted veteran rates available). Value: Access to continuing education, networking, job boards, and clinical resources. Demonstrates professional commitment to employers.

Specialty certifications through APTA:

Orthopedic PTA specialization: Additional training in orthopedic rehabilitation. Cost: $500-$1,500. Value: Increases marketability for sports medicine and orthopedic positions.
Geriatric PTA specialization: Focus on aging populations. Cost: $500-$1,500. Value: Valuable for skilled nursing, home health, and senior care facilities.
Neurologic PTA specialization: Stroke, TBI, spinal cord injury rehabilitation. Cost: $500-$1,500. Value: Positions you for acute care and neuro-rehab facilities.

ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) - If pursuing acute care/ICU physical therapy. Cost: $200-$300. Time: 2-day course. Value: Required or preferred for hospital-based acute care positions.

Compact License (if applicable) - Physical Therapy Compact allows PTAs licensed in one compact state to practice in other compact states. Cost: Varies by state. Value: Essential for travel PTAs; useful for anyone considering relocation. Check fsbpt.org for participating states.

Lower priority (helpful but not critical):

Kinesiology Taping certification - Popular adjunct treatment. Cost: $200-$400 for certification course. Value: Nice skill to have but not required.

Dry needling certification - Some states allow PTAs to perform dry needling with additional training. Cost: $1,000-$2,000. Value: Adds treatment option in states that allow PTA dry needling.

Specialty equipment training - AlterG anti-gravity treadmill, Biodex, blood flow restriction training. Often provided by employers. Value: Differentiator but not required.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Be brutally honest. There are civilian skills you don't have:

Physical therapy evaluation and plan of care development: Military 68F specialists work under PT supervision implementing treatment plans. In civilian settings, PTAs must deeply understand PT evaluation findings, patient goals, and treatment progressions to modify treatments appropriately within the plan of care. You'll need to study anatomy, kinesiology, and clinical decision-making more deeply than military training covered.

Insurance, billing, and documentation requirements: Civilian physical therapy is driven by insurance reimbursement. You'll need to learn insurance authorization requirements, billing codes (CPT codes for PT services), documentation that justifies medical necessity, and compliance with Medicare/Medicaid regulations. Military medicine doesn't deal with these business aspects.

Patient communication in service-oriented culture: Civilian patients pay for services (through insurance or out-of-pocket) and expect customer service. They can choose to stop coming if they don't like their experience. You'll need softer communication skills, empathetic listening, and patient engagement techniques beyond military healthcare's more directive approach.

Productivity and efficiency standards: Civilian PT clinics require PTAs to treat 10-15 patients daily, document treatments within 24 hours, and contribute to clinic profitability. Military PT clinics prioritize readiness and access without productivity pressures. You'll need to work faster while maintaining quality.

State practice act regulations: Each state defines PTA scope of practice differently—what procedures PTAs can perform, required PT supervision ratios, and documentation requirements. You must learn your state's specific regulations. Practicing beyond your scope risks license suspension or legal liability.

Real 68F success stories

James, 28, former 68F (E-5) → Licensed PTA at ATI Physical Therapy

After 6 years at Fort Bragg and Fort Lewis, James completed PTA degree through Lake Superior College's Military Bridge program (18 months using TA/GI Bill). Passed NPTE on first attempt, obtained Washington state PTA license. Hired by ATI Physical Therapy at $62,000, now makes $68,000 after 2 years with performance bonuses. Treats 12-14 patients daily in outpatient orthopedic clinic. Plans to pursue geriatric specialization.

Maria, 32, former 68F (E-6) → VA Physical Therapy Assistant

Maria served 10 years including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Completed PTA degree through online/hybrid program while still active duty. Applied to VA 6 months before separation using veteran preference. Started at GS-8 PTA ($52,000) at VA Medical Center in San Diego. Promoted to GS-9 after 18 months ($58,000), now GS-10 ($64,000) after 4 years. Values federal benefits, pension, and treating fellow veterans. Plans 20+ year VA career.

Kevin, 26, former 68F (E-4) → Travel Physical Therapist Assistant

Kevin separated after one enlistment (4 years). Completed PTA degree quickly (15 months with military credits), passed NPTE, obtained compact license. Worked 6 months at Select Medical ($58,000) to gain civilian experience, then transitioned to travel therapy. Now makes $1,600/week gross ($83K annually) on 13-week contracts. Has worked in Montana, Hawaii, and Colorado. Plans to travel 3-4 years, then settle into private practice ownership.

Lisa, 34, former 68F (E-7) → Hospital Acute Care PTA → Pursuing DPT

Lisa served 12 years, left as Sergeant First Class. Completed PTA degree, passed NPTE, worked 3 years at Cleveland Clinic in inpatient rehabilitation ($72,000). Loved the work and decided to pursue DPT. Using remaining GI Bill benefits for DPT program. Will graduate in 2 years as a Doctor of Physical Therapy, projected starting salary $85,000-$95,000. Plans to specialize in orthopedics and eventually open private practice.

Action plan: your first 180 days out

Here's your transition roadmap:

Months 1-2: Education and certification pathway

Get 10 certified copies of DD-214 (you'll need these for veteran benefits and educational applications)
Request JST (Joint Services Transcript) showing your 68F training from Fort Sam Houston (use this for college credit evaluation)
Research PTA programs accepting military credits: Lake Superior College Military Bridge, Pima Medical Institute, Keiser University, community colleges with veteran services
Apply to 3-5 PTA programs using GI Bill benefits (tuition, housing allowance covered)
If already have PTA degree, register for NPTE exam ($567.60) and begin studying using TherapyEd or Scorebuilders prep materials
Get CPR/BLS certification if yours expired ($50-$100)
Research your state's PTA licensure requirements at fsbpt.org
Create LinkedIn profile highlighting 68F clinical experience
Connect with civilian PTAs and PTs on LinkedIn (50+ connections—ask about their career paths)

Months 3-4: Complete education/pass NPTE

If in PTA program: Focus on coursework and clinical rotations; maintain 3.0+ GPA for graduation
If studying for NPTE: Dedicate 15-20 hours/week to studying; take practice exams; schedule test date
Pass NPTE exam: 400+ scaled score required (2.5-hour exam, 180 questions)
Apply for state PTA license immediately after passing NPTE ($50-$200)
Join APTA (American Physical Therapy Association) for networking and job resources ($150-$300)
Research employers: ATI Physical Therapy, Select Medical, VA healthcare, local hospitals, private practices
Consider SkillBridge internship (last 180 days of active duty) at civilian PT clinic—gives you civilian experience before separation

Months 5-6: Job search and employment

Apply to 20-30 PTA positions across multiple settings (outpatient, hospital, VA, corporate chains)
Target military-friendly employers: ATI Physical Therapy, Select Medical, VA Medical Centers
Prepare for interviews: Practice translating military experience to civilian terms; bring documentation (DD-214, PTA license, NPTE score, JST transcripts)
Network with local APTA chapter and attend PT/PTA networking events
Consider travel therapy if you want higher pay and flexibility (research Fusion Medical, AMN Healthcare, Med Travelers)
Accept position (don't wait for "perfect" job—get civilian experience first)
Excel in first 90 days: Demonstrate military reliability, learn documentation systems, ask questions, build relationships
After 6-12 months civilian experience: Reassess salary, consider specialty certifications, and leverage experience to negotiate raise or advance to higher-paying positions

Bottom line for Army 68F Physical Therapy Specialists

Your 68F experience isn't just valuable—it's directly applicable to one of America's fastest-growing healthcare professions with 16% projected growth through 2034.

You've proven you can provide skilled rehabilitation care, instruct therapeutic exercise, operate modality equipment, document patient progress, work under PT supervision, and deliver results in fast-paced medical environments. The civilian physical therapy industry desperately needs these skills—you just need the PTA license that allows you to practice legally and command competitive salaries.

Corporate PT chains, VA healthcare, hospital-based acute care, and travel therapy are proven paths. Thousands of 68F specialists have successfully transitioned before you. You're not starting from zero—you're ahead of civilian PTA graduates who spent 2 years in school while you spent years treating real patients with complex injuries.

First-year income of $55K-$70K is realistic for licensed PTAs. Within 3-5 years, $70K-$85K is achievable. Specialized PTAs in acute care or sports medicine earn $80K-$95K. If you advance to clinic director or bridge to DPT, $95K-$130K+ is within reach.

Your clinical experience, military discipline, and 68F credentials are assets. Complete your PTA degree (if needed), pass the NPTE, obtain state licensure, target military-friendly employers, and be patient with the transition process.

You've accomplished harder things than this transition. Execute the plan.

Ready to build your transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your skills, research salaries, and track your certifications.

Bottom Line Up Front

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 68F separating hears two opposite narratives: "Your military PT experience translates perfectly to civilian physical therapy," and "You'll need extensive additional education and licensing."

You didn't just "help with physical therapy." You:

Provided direct patient care implementing treatment plans designed by licensed physical therapists
Administered therapeutic exercises, stretching, strengthening, and functional mobility training to 500+ patients
Applied physical therapy modalities including ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hot/cold therapy, and traction
Conducted gait training, transfer training, and assisted with ambulation using assistive devices
Performed manual therapy techniques including soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization
Documented patient progress, treatment responses, and functional outcomes in electronic health records
Operated rehabilitation equipment including parallel bars, treatment tables, exercise equipment, and modality devices
Educated patients and families on home exercise programs, body mechanics, and injury prevention
Assessed patient vital signs, pain levels, and range of motion before, during, and after treatments

Best civilian career paths for Army 68F Physical Therapy Specialists

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where 68F specialists consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.

Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (most common path)

Civilian job titles:

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Orthopedic Physical Therapist Assistant
Sports Medicine PTA
Acute Care PTA (hospital-based)
Outpatient Rehabilitation PTA
Geriatric Physical Therapist Assistant
Pediatric PTA

Salary ranges:

Entry-level PTA (0-2 years): $50,000-$65,000
Experienced PTA (3-7 years): $60,000-$75,000
Senior PTA (8+ years): $70,000-$85,000
Specialized PTAs (sports medicine, acute care): $75,000-$95,000
Travel PTA (13-week contracts): $1,200-$1,800/week ($62K-$94K annually)
National median salary (BLS 2024): $65,510
Top 10% earners: $87,630+
Hourly rates: $28-$42/hour

Geographic salary variations (2024 data):

California: $72,000-$95,000 (highest-paying state)
Texas: $68,000-$85,000
New Jersey: $70,000-$88,000
New York: $68,000-$82,000
Florida: $55,000-$70,000

What translates directly:

All hands-on patient treatment and therapeutic interventions
Exercise prescription and instruction
Physical therapy modalities and equipment operation
Patient assessment and progress documentation
Gait training and functional mobility
Manual therapy techniques
Patient and family education
Treatment plan implementation under PT supervision

Certifications needed:

Associate degree from CAPTE-accredited PTA program: Most 68F specialists can apply for advanced standing or military pathway programs. Some schools accept military training for course credits. Cost: $0 with GI Bill (2-year degree). If you don't have this, it's required before sitting for NPTE.
NPTE for PTAs (National Physical Therapy Examination): Required in all 50 states for PTA licensure. Cost: $485 exam fee + $82.60 Prometric testing fee = $567.60 total. Pass rate: approximately 90% for first-time test takers. Study time: 2-4 months.
State PTA license: Each state requires licensure. Application fees: $50-$200. Background checks required.
CPR/BLS certification: Required by all employers. Cost: $50-$100.

Your best pathways:

Military bridge programs: Lake Superior College offers a PTA Military Bridge program specifically for 68F specialists. You may get advanced standing and complete the degree faster than traditional 2 years.
Advanced standing in civilian PTA programs: Some schools evaluate military transcripts (JST—Joint Services Transcript) and grant credit for 68F training, reducing time to degree completion to 12-18 months.
Challenge exams and portfolio assessment: A few states allow experienced practitioners to demonstrate competency through portfolio review and challenge exams, though this is rare for PTAs.
Online/hybrid PTA programs: Use your GI Bill for accelerated online programs with clinical rotations in your area. Programs like Pima Medical Institute, Keiser University, and St. Catherine University offer flexible options for veterans.

Corporate Physical Therapy Chains (fastest hiring path)

Major employers actively hiring 68F veterans:

ATI Physical Therapy: 900+ clinics across 25 states. Starting PTA salary: $55,000-$70,000. Military-friendly hiring, structured mentorship, CEU allowances, competitive benefits. Rated 3.1/5 by employees.
Select Medical (NovaCare Rehabilitation): 1,800+ locations nationwide. Starting PTA salary: $58,000-$72,000. Excellent training programs, career advancement paths.
Athletico Physical Therapy: 900+ clinics in 25 states. Starting PTA salary: $56,000-$70,000. Sports medicine focus, performance bonuses.
Pivot Physical Therapy: 350+ locations. Starting PTA salary: $55,000-$68,000. Employee-owned, strong culture.
Rehab Without Walls (post-acute rehabilitation): Starting PTA salary: $60,000-$75,000. Home health and neuro-rehab focus.

Salary ranges:

Entry-level PTA at corporate chains: $55,000-$70,000
Experienced PTA (3+ years): $65,000-$80,000
Senior/Lead PTA: $75,000-$90,000
Regional trainer/clinical specialist: $80,000-$95,000

Certifications needed:

NPTE and state PTA license (required)
CPR/BLS (required)
APTA membership (preferred—$150-$300/year)

ATI Physical Therapy specifically recruits veterans and understands military training. Select Medical's NovaCare division has partnerships with military transition programs.

If you want to specialize (sports medicine, orthopedics, geriatrics), these chains offer specialty residencies and mentorship programs that accelerate your expertise.

VA Healthcare System (best benefits and job security)

Civilian job titles:

Physical Therapy Assistant (GS-7 to GS-9)
Senior Physical Therapy Assistant (GS-9 to GS-11)
Physical Therapy Clinic Coordinator
Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant (cross-trained PT/OT)

Salary ranges:

GS-7 Physical Therapy Assistant: $44,000-$57,000 (varies by locality)
GS-8 PTA: $49,000-$63,000
GS-9 Senior PTA: $54,000-$70,000
GS-11 Lead PTA/Coordinator: $66,000-$85,000
With locality pay adjustments: Add 15-35% in high-cost areas (DC, NYC, SF, LA)

What translates directly:

All your 68F clinical rehabilitation skills
Military medical documentation and VA electronic health records (CPRS)
Understanding of military/VA patient populations (TBI, amputations, PTSD, blast injuries)
Security clearance (if still active—advantage for VA hiring)
Veteran preference in federal hiring (5-10 point preference)

Certifications needed:

NPTE and state PTA license: Required
CPR/BLS: Required
Federal background check: Standard for VA employment

As a veteran, you get hiring preference. If you're a disabled veteran (10% or higher VA rating), you get 10-point preference, putting you at the top of hiring lists for federal jobs.

VA also offers student loan repayment ($10,000+ annually for hard-to-fill positions), relocation allowances, and tuition assistance if you want to bridge to DPT.

Acute Care/Hospital Physical Therapy (higher complexity, higher pay)

Civilian job titles:

Acute Care Physical Therapist Assistant
Inpatient Rehabilitation PTA
ICU Rehabilitation Assistant
Trauma/Orthopedic PTA
Stroke/Neuro Rehabilitation PTA

Salary ranges:

Hospital-based PTA: $60,000-$80,000
Acute care PTA (ICU, trauma): $70,000-$90,000
Inpatient rehabilitation PTA: $65,000-$82,000
Weekend/evening differential: Additional $3-$8/hour
Major medical centers (Mayo, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins): $72,000-$95,000

What translates directly:

High-acuity patient care and medical complexity
Working with trauma, post-surgical, and critically ill patients
Interdisciplinary team collaboration (physicians, nurses, OTs, SLPs)
Handling medical equipment (ventilators, IV lines, monitors)
Documentation in complex electronic health record systems
Responding to rapid patient status changes

Certifications needed:

NPTE and state PTA license (required)
CPR/BLS (required)
ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)—preferred for ICU/acute care ($200-$300)
Specialty certifications through APTA (orthopedics, geriatrics, neurology)—optional but valuable

Major hospital systems (HCA Healthcare, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Kaiser Permanente, Johns Hopkins, NYU Langone) actively recruit PTAs for inpatient rehabilitation. They offer:

Higher salaries ($65K-$90K) than outpatient clinics
Shift differentials for evenings/weekends/nights (additional $5K-$12K annually)
Excellent benefits with large healthcare systems
Advanced training and CEU opportunities
Exposure to diverse patient populations and complex cases

Career progression: Start as staff PTA ($65K-$75K), advance to senior PTA ($75K-$85K), then rehabilitation coordinator or manager ($85K-$110K+).

Best for: 68F specialists who thrive in fast-paced, medically complex environments, want higher salaries, and prefer hospital settings to outpatient clinics.

Travel Physical Therapist Assistant (highest short-term pay)

Civilian job titles:

Travel Physical Therapist Assistant
Contract PTA (13-week assignments)
Per diem PTA

Salary ranges:

Travel PTA (13-week contracts): $1,200-$1,800/week gross ($62K-$94K annually)
Per diem PTA (local contracts): $40-$60/hour (no benefits)
High-demand locations (rural, underserved): Up to $2,000+/week
Housing stipend (if applicable): $1,000-$2,000/month (tax-free)
Meal per diem: $200-$400/month (tax-free)

What translates directly:

Adaptability to new clinical environments (just like PCS moves)
Ability to integrate quickly into new teams
Clinical competence across diverse patient populations
Self-directed learning and problem-solving
Flexibility with living situations and travel

Certifications needed:

NPTE and state PTA license (required)
Compact license (if working in Compact states—allows practice in multiple states with one license)
CPR/BLS (required)
Professional liability insurance ($150-$300/year)

Major travel therapy companies:

AMN Healthcare/Club Staffing: Largest travel therapy company
Fusion Medical Staffing: Veteran-friendly, excellent benefits
Med Travelers: Competitive pay packages
Core Medical Group: Strong reputation in PT staffing

After 2-3 years of travel, many PTAs settle into permanent positions with 3-5 years of diverse experience commanding $75K-$85K salaries.

Best for: 68F specialists with PTA license, no family ties keeping them in one location, who want to travel, maximize short-term earnings ($70K-$90K+), and gain diverse clinical experience.

Bridge to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)—long-term highest earning

Civilian job titles:

Physical Therapist (DPT)
Orthopedic Physical Therapist
Sports Medicine Physical Therapist
Clinical Director/Clinic Owner

Salary ranges:

Entry-level Physical Therapist: $70,000-$85,000
Experienced PT (5+ years): $80,000-$100,000
Specialized PT (sports medicine, orthopedics): $90,000-$115,000
PT Clinic Director: $95,000-$130,000
PT practice owner: $120,000-$200,000+

Education requirements:

PTA to DPT bridge programs: Only 3-4 accredited programs nationwide (University of Findlay, UTMB, Concordia Wisconsin, New England Institute of Technology)
Traditional DPT pathway: Complete bachelor's degree (if you don't have one—use GI Bill), then 3-year DPT program (also covered by GI Bill if benefits remain)
Total time investment: 3-5 years depending on pathway
Total cost: $0-$50,000 (GI Bill covers most, may need private loans for living expenses)

If you're over 35 with family obligations, the 5-6 year investment may not make financial sense. You could work as a PTA earning $65K-$85K immediately versus being a full-time student for 5-6 years.

Best for: Young 68F specialists (under 30) passionate about physical therapy, willing to invest 5-6 years in education for significantly higher long-term earning potential and career autonomy.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Army 68F Physical Therapy Specialist" on your resume and assuming civilian employers understand what that means. Translate it:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
68F Physical Therapy Specialist	Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant with 4+ years clinical rehabilitation experience
Therapeutic exercise instruction	Designed and instructed 1,000+ individualized therapeutic exercise programs for orthopedic, neurological, and post-surgical patients
Physical therapy modalities	Administered ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hot/cold therapy, and traction to 500+ patients with documented pain reduction and functional improvement
Gait training and functional mobility	Conducted mobility training for 300+ patients post-injury/surgery, improving ambulation independence by 80%
Manual therapy techniques	Performed soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and stretching techniques on 400+ patients with documented ROM improvements
Patient assessment and documentation	Conducted initial assessments, documented progress notes, and discharge summaries for 600+ patient cases using electronic health records
Rehabilitation equipment operation	Operated parallel bars, treatment tables, therapeutic exercise equipment, CPM machines, and modality devices for 1,000+ treatment sessions
Patient and family education	Educated 500+ patients and families on home exercise programs, body mechanics, and injury prevention with 95% compliance rates

Certifications that actually matter

Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill as a 68F transitioning out:

High priority (get these):

CPR/BLS Certification - Required by all employers. Cost: $50-$100. Time: 4-8 hours. Renew every 2 years. Get through American Heart Association.

Medium priority (if it fits your career path):

Specialty certifications through APTA:

Orthopedic PTA specialization: Additional training in orthopedic rehabilitation. Cost: $500-$1,500. Value: Increases marketability for sports medicine and orthopedic positions.
Geriatric PTA specialization: Focus on aging populations. Cost: $500-$1,500. Value: Valuable for skilled nursing, home health, and senior care facilities.
Neurologic PTA specialization: Stroke, TBI, spinal cord injury rehabilitation. Cost: $500-$1,500. Value: Positions you for acute care and neuro-rehab facilities.

ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) - If pursuing acute care/ICU physical therapy. Cost: $200-$300. Time: 2-day course. Value: Required or preferred for hospital-based acute care positions.

Lower priority (helpful but not critical):

Kinesiology Taping certification - Popular adjunct treatment. Cost: $200-$400 for certification course. Value: Nice skill to have but not required.

Dry needling certification - Some states allow PTAs to perform dry needling with additional training. Cost: $1,000-$2,000. Value: Adds treatment option in states that allow PTA dry needling.

Specialty equipment training - AlterG anti-gravity treadmill, Biodex, blood flow restriction training. Often provided by employers. Value: Differentiator but not required.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Be brutally honest. There are civilian skills you don't have:

Real 68F success stories

James, 28, former 68F (E-5) → Licensed PTA at ATI Physical Therapy

Maria, 32, former 68F (E-6) → VA Physical Therapy Assistant

Kevin, 26, former 68F (E-4) → Travel Physical Therapist Assistant

Lisa, 34, former 68F (E-7) → Hospital Acute Care PTA → Pursuing DPT

Action plan: your first 180 days out

Here's your transition roadmap:

Months 1-2: Education and certification pathway

Get 10 certified copies of DD-214 (you'll need these for veteran benefits and educational applications)
Request JST (Joint Services Transcript) showing your 68F training from Fort Sam Houston (use this for college credit evaluation)
Research PTA programs accepting military credits: Lake Superior College Military Bridge, Pima Medical Institute, Keiser University, community colleges with veteran services
Apply to 3-5 PTA programs using GI Bill benefits (tuition, housing allowance covered)
If already have PTA degree, register for NPTE exam ($567.60) and begin studying using TherapyEd or Scorebuilders prep materials
Get CPR/BLS certification if yours expired ($50-$100)
Research your state's PTA licensure requirements at fsbpt.org
Create LinkedIn profile highlighting 68F clinical experience
Connect with civilian PTAs and PTs on LinkedIn (50+ connections—ask about their career paths)

Months 3-4: Complete education/pass NPTE

If in PTA program: Focus on coursework and clinical rotations; maintain 3.0+ GPA for graduation
If studying for NPTE: Dedicate 15-20 hours/week to studying; take practice exams; schedule test date
Pass NPTE exam: 400+ scaled score required (2.5-hour exam, 180 questions)
Apply for state PTA license immediately after passing NPTE ($50-$200)
Join APTA (American Physical Therapy Association) for networking and job resources ($150-$300)
Research employers: ATI Physical Therapy, Select Medical, VA healthcare, local hospitals, private practices
Consider SkillBridge internship (last 180 days of active duty) at civilian PT clinic—gives you civilian experience before separation

Months 5-6: Job search and employment

Apply to 20-30 PTA positions across multiple settings (outpatient, hospital, VA, corporate chains)
Target military-friendly employers: ATI Physical Therapy, Select Medical, VA Medical Centers
Prepare for interviews: Practice translating military experience to civilian terms; bring documentation (DD-214, PTA license, NPTE score, JST transcripts)
Network with local APTA chapter and attend PT/PTA networking events
Consider travel therapy if you want higher pay and flexibility (research Fusion Medical, AMN Healthcare, Med Travelers)
Accept position (don't wait for "perfect" job—get civilian experience first)
Excel in first 90 days: Demonstrate military reliability, learn documentation systems, ask questions, build relationships
After 6-12 months civilian experience: Reassess salary, consider specialty certifications, and leverage experience to negotiate raise or advance to higher-paying positions

Bottom line for Army 68F Physical Therapy Specialists

Your 68F experience isn't just valuable—it's directly applicable to one of America's fastest-growing healthcare professions with 16% projected growth through 2034.

You've accomplished harder things than this transition. Execute the plan.

Ready to build your transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your skills, research salaries, and track your certifications.