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Physical Therapy Assistant Certification

By an allied health world contributing writer
Published: February, 19 2010

A total of 45 states now require that all physical therapy assistants working obtain certification, licensure, or registration. Specific requirements regarding each differ from state-to-state. Individual states determine their own licensing guidelines for medical professionals. Legislature is in a constant state of change in the medical profession in order to ensure that patients are protected and medical professionals are held to the highest standards. For the most up-to-date information regarding requirements for PTAs in your state, contact the state board of licensing and regulations or the American Physical Therapist Association (APTA). Although obtaining physical therapy assistant certification, licensure or registration may not be required by your state, it may be required by your employer.

All 50 states and three additional jurisdictions require that physical therapist assistants pass an accredited PTA education program consisting of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Passing of the National Physical Therapy Exam is a prerequisite for obtaining a license in all states as well. The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) coordinates and administers all licensure examinations for potential PTAs. Proof that the exam has been passed will be required when applying for a physical therapy assistant license.

Some states also require PTAs to pass a state jurisprudence exam covering laws and regulations in the state in which you are becoming licensed. These are primarily multiple choice exams administered by the state. In many cases, they are open-book or can be completed at home or online.

Many states also require that physical therapy assistants complete training in CPR and First-Aid. A minimum number of clinical hours are also required in all states. Additionally, it is possible that background checks will be administered to PTA license applicants.

After accepting an application for certification, license or registration as a PTA, processing time varies from 30 days to six months. Most states offer online options that allow you to check the status of the processing of your application license.