Dry needling in Virginia: the rules for physical therapists

Virginia's PT rule (18VAC112-20-121, last amended June 2025) treats dry needling as an advanced procedure that needs post-graduate training.

Allowedfor PTs

Post-graduate dry needling training with face-to-face lab and theory and practical exams, from a board-approved sponsor (no set hours)training before you start

Rules to know

Training must cover emergency preparedness and response, contraindications and precautions, complications, palpation and needle technique, and physiological responses.
Don't go beyond the highest level of training you've completed.
Get informed consent covering risks and benefits, and keep the form in the record.
It can't be delegated to PTAs or support personnel.

Official sources

18VAC112-20-121, Practice of dry needling

A plain-language summary, last checked October 24, 2026. Dry needling rules change often and some states regulate it through board statements rather than law, so confirm with your board before you dry needle. OTs and athletic trainers have their own rules.

Dry needling courses in Virginia

4 upcoming in-person courses. Make sure a course's hours and format meet Virginia's rules before you register.

November 2026

Fri–Sun, Nov 6–8, 2026 · 3 days Dry Needling 3 (DN-3) $895 · Richmond AAMT· Richmond, VADry Needling Details and registration
Fri, Nov 6, 2026 Dry Needling Level 3: Spine Price on provider site · Centreville The Jackson ClinicsDry Needling Listed as approved by APTA Virginia. Check approval for your state with the provider. Details and registration

December 2026

Sat–Sun, Dec 5–6, 2026 · 2 days DN3: Dry Needling – Level 3 Price on provider site · Ashburn IAMTDry Needling Details and registration
Fri–Sun, Dec 11–13, 2026 · 3 days Dry Needling 2 (DN-2) $895 · Richmond AAMT· Richmond, VADry Needling Details and registration

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Common questions

Can physical therapists dry needle in Virginia?

Yes. Virginia's PT rule (18VAC112-20-121, last amended June 2025) treats dry needling as an advanced procedure that needs post-graduate training.

How much training do PTs need to dry needle in Virginia?

Post-graduate dry needling training with face-to-face lab and theory and practical exams, from a board-approved sponsor (no set hours).