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Illinois Physical Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

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Physical Therapist, Licensed

Illinois physical therapist license issued under the Illinois Physical Therapy Act (225 ILCS 90) and 68 Ill. Adm. Code Part 1340.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Professional Regulation (Physical Therapy Licensing and Disciplinary Board advising) · Application information

Licensure by endorsement for an applicant currently licensed in another U.S. state or territory
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Application Deadline
The application process must be completed within 3 years of application (225 ILCS 90/11).
Current Licensure Elsewhere
Current licensure under the laws of another U.S. state or territory, with certification from the state of original licensure and the state of current licensure and practice (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(a)(3); IDFPR qualifications document).
Education
Graduation from a physical therapist curriculum approved by the Department under 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20; CAPTE-accredited programs are approved; graduates after January 1, 2024 must hold at least a doctoral degree in physical therapy (225 ILCS 90/8(a)(2); 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20).
English Proficiency
Certification of TOEFL passage if the first language is not English, except for applicants licensed in a U.S. jurisdiction who have actively practiced in another U.S. jurisdiction for 3 years before applying (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(a)(4)).
Examination Record
The NPTE is not retaken in Illinois: 225 ILCS 90/11 allows licensure "without examination", and the applicant instead supplies a report of the examination record forwarded directly from the test reporting service (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(a)(5)); IDFPR names the NPTE as the approved competency examination for the qualifications in 1340.30 and 1340.50.
Foreign Educated
A foreign-educated applicant licensed elsewhere is evaluated using the version of the FSBPT Coursework Tool covering the graduation date (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(c)).
Practice Pending Endorsement
Qualified persons who have filed for endorsement may practice for up to one year or until licensure is granted or denied (225 ILCS 90/2(4)).
Substantial Equivalence
The Division determines whether the requirements of the other jurisdiction at the date of licensing were substantially equivalent to Illinois requirements then in force (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(b)).
Licensure by endorsement after 10 consecutive years of licensure without discipline in another jurisdiction
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Page Qualifications
The IDFPR qualifications document lists successful completion of the NPTE among the license qualifications for 1340.30 and 1340.50 generally; 225 ILCS 90/11 and 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(d) state the complete requirements for this applicant without an examination record.
Ten Year Licensure
Proof of licensure in another jurisdiction for at least 10 consecutive years without discipline, by certified verification of licensure from that jurisdiction, with a completed application and the required fee (225 ILCS 90/11; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(d)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Initial licensure by examination
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Age And Character
At least 21 years of age and of good moral character (225 ILCS 90/8(a)(1)).
Application Deadline
The application process must be completed within 3 years after filing or the application is denied (225 ILCS 90/12).
Board Interview
The Department may request a personal interview before the Board (225 ILCS 90/8(b); 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(g)).
Education
Graduation from a physical therapist curriculum approved by the Department under 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20; CAPTE-accredited programs are approved; graduates after January 1, 2024 must hold at least a doctoral degree in physical therapy (225 ILCS 90/8(a)(2); 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20).
English Proficiency
A graduate of a program outside the United States whose first language is not English must submit certification of passage of the TOEFL (and, under 225 ILCS 90/8(a)(3) and 8.1(3), the Test of Spoken English as defined by rule) before taking the licensure examination; TOEFL is not a registered examination and is a condition only.
Exam Application Process
Apply to IDFPR through CORE; after approval apply to Continental Testing Services (CTS) and register with FSBPT, which issues the Authorization to Test (IDFPR CTS Online Application Instructions).
Exam Before Graduation
An enrolled student may apply to take the examination no more than 120 days before graduation; results are void if certification of graduation is not received within 90 days after the scheduled graduation date (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(i)).
Exam Passed Elsewhere Unlicensed
An applicant who passed the examination recognized by the Division in another jurisdiction but was not licensed there applies under this route and has the scores sent to the Division by the reporting entity (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(f)).
Failed Three Times
An applicant who fails the examination 3 times in any jurisdiction must complete a Division- or Board-preapproved remedial training program of at least 3 months or 360 hours before sitting again (225 ILCS 90/12; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.40(d)).
Foreign Graduates
Graduates of a program outside the United States or its territories must have their education evaluated as equivalent by a credentialing service acceptable to the Department (FCCPT is recognized) (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20(e)).
Passing Score
The passing score is the passing score established by the testing entity (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.40(c)).
Practice Pending Exam
An applicant determined eligible except for passing the examination receives a letter of authorization to test permitting practice under on-site supervision of a licensed physical therapist (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(h); 225 ILCS 90/2(2)).
Prior Licensure Elsewhere
An applicant ever licensed in another U.S. state or territory must also submit licensure certification from the state of original licensure and the state of predominant practice (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(e)).
Testing Window
The applicant must take the examination within 60 days after approval or on the next test date, or forfeit the fee (225 ILCS 90/12; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(d)).
License renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
40 hours of continuing education per 24-month prerenewal period, at least 3 hours on ethical practice including jurisprudence (225 ILCS 90/14.1; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.61(a)(1)).
Expiration
The physical therapist license expires on September 30 of each even-numbered year (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.55(a)).
First Renewal
CE is not required for the first renewal after original issuance (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.61(a)(6)).
Renewal Window
Renew during the month preceding expiration by paying the renewal fee ($30 per year) (225 ILCS 90/14; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.55(a), 1340.57(b)(1)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration of a license expired for 5 years or less or on inactive status for less than 5 years
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Continuing Education
40 hours of continuing education per 24-month prerenewal period, at least 3 hours on ethical practice including jurisprudence (225 ILCS 90/14.1; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.61(a)(1)).
Military Service
A licensee whose license expired during qualifying military service may restore without lapsed renewal or restoration fees if application is made within 2 years after discharge (225 ILCS 90/15; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(b)(2)).
Reexamination Discretion
The NPTE is not listed among the filing requirements of 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(b)-(c); it is mounted because 225 ILCS 90/15 lets the Board require successful completion of an examination of a licensee who has not maintained active practice in another jurisdiction, and 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.40(e) preserves the Division's ability to require reexaminations for restoration.
Restoration Filing
Expired 5 years or less: completed application, the restoration fee ($50 plus lapsed renewal fees, not exceeding $200) and proof of the required CE earned within the preceding 2 years; inactive less than 5 years: payment of the current renewal fee and proof of the required CE (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(b), (c), 1340.57(c)).
Restoration of a license expired or on inactive status for more than 5 years
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Alternatives To Examination
Proof of passage of the examination in 1340.40 is one of four alternatives; the applicant may instead submit (A) certification of current licensure in another state or territory with proof of current active practice, (B) an affidavit of military service under Section 15 of the Act, or (D) evidence of maintained competence, accepted as 160 contact hours (lapsed 5-10 years) or 320 contact hours (lapsed 10 years or more) of Board-preapproved supervised clinical training (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(a)(3)).
Board Interview
The applicant may be asked to provide information or appear for a Board interview (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(d)).
Restoration Filing
Completed application, the required fee and proof of the required CE completed during the 24 months preceding application (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(a)(1)-(3)).
Statutory Evidence
The applicant files proof acceptable to the Department of fitness to have the license restored, including sworn evidence certifying to active practice in another jurisdiction (225 ILCS 90/15).

Physical Therapist Assistant, Licensed

Illinois physical therapist assistant license issued under the Illinois Physical Therapy Act (225 ILCS 90) and 68 Ill. Adm. Code Part 1340.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Professional Regulation (Physical Therapy Licensing and Disciplinary Board advising) · Application information

Licensure by endorsement for an applicant currently licensed in another U.S. state or territory
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Application Deadline
The application process must be completed within 3 years of application (225 ILCS 90/11).
Current Licensure Elsewhere
Current licensure under the laws of another U.S. state or territory, with certification from the state of original licensure and the state of current licensure and practice (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(a)(3); IDFPR qualifications document).
Education
Graduation from a physical therapist assistant program approved by the Department with at least an associate degree, meeting 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20(c); CAPTE-accredited programs are approved (225 ILCS 90/8.1(2); 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20).
English Proficiency
Certification of TOEFL passage if the first language is not English, except for applicants licensed in a U.S. jurisdiction who have actively practiced in another U.S. jurisdiction for 3 years before applying (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(a)(4)).
Examination Record
The NPTE is not retaken in Illinois: 225 ILCS 90/11 allows licensure "without examination", and the applicant instead supplies a report of the examination record forwarded directly from the test reporting service (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(a)(5)); IDFPR names the NPTE as the approved competency examination for the qualifications in 1340.30 and 1340.50.
Foreign Educated
A foreign-educated applicant licensed elsewhere is evaluated using the version of the FSBPT Coursework Tool covering the graduation date (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(c)).
Practice Pending Endorsement
Qualified persons who have filed for endorsement may practice for up to one year or until licensure is granted or denied (225 ILCS 90/2(4)).
Substantial Equivalence
The Division determines whether the requirements of the other jurisdiction at the date of licensing were substantially equivalent to Illinois requirements then in force (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(b)).
Licensure by endorsement after 10 consecutive years of licensure without discipline in another jurisdiction
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Page Qualifications
The IDFPR qualifications document lists successful completion of the NPTE among the license qualifications for 1340.30 and 1340.50 generally; 225 ILCS 90/11 and 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(d) state the complete requirements for this applicant without an examination record.
Ten Year Licensure
Proof of licensure in another jurisdiction for at least 10 consecutive years without discipline, by certified verification of licensure from that jurisdiction, with a completed application and the required fee (225 ILCS 90/11; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.50(d)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Initial licensure by examination
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Age And Character
At least 18 years of age and of good moral character (225 ILCS 90/8.1(1)).
Application Deadline
The application process must be completed within 3 years after filing or the application is denied (225 ILCS 90/12).
Board Interview
The Department may request a personal interview before the Board (225 ILCS 90/8(b); 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(g)).
Education
Graduation from a physical therapist assistant program approved by the Department with at least an associate degree, meeting 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20(c); CAPTE-accredited programs are approved (225 ILCS 90/8.1(2); 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20).
English Proficiency
A graduate of a program outside the United States whose first language is not English must submit certification of passage of the TOEFL (and, under 225 ILCS 90/8(a)(3) and 8.1(3), the Test of Spoken English as defined by rule) before taking the licensure examination; TOEFL is not a registered examination and is a condition only.
Exam Application Process
Apply to IDFPR through CORE; after approval apply to Continental Testing Services (CTS) and register with FSBPT, which issues the Authorization to Test (IDFPR CTS Online Application Instructions).
Exam Before Graduation
An enrolled student may apply to take the examination no more than 120 days before graduation; results are void if certification of graduation is not received within 90 days after the scheduled graduation date (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(i)).
Exam Passed Elsewhere Unlicensed
An applicant who passed the examination recognized by the Division in another jurisdiction but was not licensed there applies under this route and has the scores sent to the Division by the reporting entity (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(f)).
Failed Three Times
An applicant who fails the examination 3 times in any jurisdiction must complete a Division- or Board-preapproved remedial training program of at least 3 months or 360 hours before sitting again (225 ILCS 90/12; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.40(d)).
Foreign Graduates
Graduates of a program outside the United States or its territories must have their education evaluated as equivalent by a credentialing service acceptable to the Department (FCCPT is recognized) (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.20(e)).
Passing Score
The passing score is the passing score established by the testing entity (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.40(c)).
Practice Pending Exam
An applicant determined eligible except for passing the examination receives a letter of authorization to test permitting practice under on-site supervision of a licensed physical therapist (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(h); 225 ILCS 90/2(2)).
Prior Licensure Elsewhere
An applicant ever licensed in another U.S. state or territory must also submit licensure certification from the state of original licensure and the state of predominant practice (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(e)).
Testing Window
The applicant must take the examination within 60 days after approval or on the next test date, or forfeit the fee (225 ILCS 90/12; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.30(d)).
License renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
20 hours of continuing education per 24-month prerenewal period, at least 3 hours on ethical practice including jurisprudence (225 ILCS 90/14.1; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.61(a)(2)).
Expiration
The physical therapist assistant license expires on September 30 of each odd-numbered year (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.55(a)).
First Renewal
CE is not required for the first renewal after original issuance (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.61(a)(6)).
Renewal Window
Renew during the month preceding expiration by paying the renewal fee ($30 per year) (225 ILCS 90/14; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.55(a), 1340.57(b)(1)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration of a license expired for 5 years or less or on inactive status for less than 5 years
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Continuing Education
20 hours of continuing education per 24-month prerenewal period, at least 3 hours on ethical practice including jurisprudence (225 ILCS 90/14.1; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.61(a)(2)).
Military Service
A licensee whose license expired during qualifying military service may restore without lapsed renewal or restoration fees if application is made within 2 years after discharge (225 ILCS 90/15; 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(b)(2)).
Reexamination Discretion
The NPTE is not listed among the filing requirements of 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(b)-(c); it is mounted because 225 ILCS 90/15 lets the Board require successful completion of an examination of a licensee who has not maintained active practice in another jurisdiction, and 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.40(e) preserves the Division's ability to require reexaminations for restoration.
Restoration Filing
Expired 5 years or less: completed application, the restoration fee ($50 plus lapsed renewal fees, not exceeding $200) and proof of the required CE earned within the preceding 2 years; inactive less than 5 years: payment of the current renewal fee and proof of the required CE (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(b), (c), 1340.57(c)).
Restoration of a license expired or on inactive status for more than 5 years
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Alternatives To Examination
Proof of passage of the examination in 1340.40 is one of four alternatives; the applicant may instead submit (A) certification of current licensure in another state or territory with proof of current active practice, (B) an affidavit of military service under Section 15 of the Act, or (D) evidence of maintained competence, accepted as 160 contact hours (lapsed 5-10 years) or 320 contact hours (lapsed 10 years or more) of Board-preapproved supervised clinical training (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(a)(3)).
Board Interview
The applicant may be asked to provide information or appear for a Board interview (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(d)).
Restoration Filing
Completed application, the required fee and proof of the required CE completed during the 24 months preceding application (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1340.60(a)(1)-(3)).
Statutory Evidence
The applicant files proof acceptable to the Department of fitness to have the license restored, including sworn evidence certifying to active practice in another jurisdiction (225 ILCS 90/15).

Physical Therapist Licensure Examination

Provider
Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy; delivered at Prometric testing centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination in five sections
Exam questions
225 total items: 180 scored items and 45 pretest items
Time limit
5 hours testing time; 5 hours 30 minutes total appointment time
Passing score
Scaled score of 600
Examination outline
  • CARDIOVASCULAR & PULMONARY SYSTEMS — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination 7-8; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 7-9; Interventions 8-10; total per system 22-27 — Physical Therapy Examination — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of cardiovascular & pulmonary systems tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence, and their relevance to information collected from the history and systems review. The category includes the reaction of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to cardiovascular & pulmonary systems interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Cardiovascular & pulmonary systems tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Movement analysis as related to the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems (e.g., rib cage excursion, breathing pattern)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Cardiovascular & pulmonary systems diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the cardiovascular & pulmonary system on physical therapy management
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems
    • Interventions — Cardiovascular & pulmonary systems physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination 14-18; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 15-18; Interventions 15-18; total per system 44-54 — Physical Therapy Examination — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of musculoskeletal system tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence, and their relevance to information collected from the history and systems review. The category includes the reaction of the musculoskeletal system to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the musculoskeletal system. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions of the musculoskeletal system according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to musculoskeletal system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the musculoskeletal system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Musculoskeletal system tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Movement analysis as related to the musculoskeletal system
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Joint biomechanics and their applications
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Musculoskeletal system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of the musculoskeletal system (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the musculoskeletal system on physical therapy management
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the musculoskeletal system
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of regenerative medicine (e.g., platelet rich plasma, stem cells) on physical therapy prognosis and interventions related to musculoskeletal diseases/conditions
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Connective tissue diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the connective tissue
    • Interventions — Musculoskeletal system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the musculoskeletal system from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the musculoskeletal system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • NEUROMUSCULAR & NERVOUS SYSTEMS — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination 13-16; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 13-16; Interventions 13-16; total per system 39-48 — Physical Therapy Examination — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of neuromuscular & nervous systems tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence, and their relevance to information collected from the history and systems review. The category includes the reaction of the neuromuscular & nervous systems to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the neuromuscular & nervous systems. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions of the neuromuscular & nervous systems according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to neuromuscular & nervous systems interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the neuromuscular & nervous systems of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Neuromuscular & nervous systems tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Anatomy and physiology of the neuromuscular & nervous systems as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Movement analysis as related to the neuromuscular & nervous systems
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Neuromuscular & nervous systems (CNS, PNS, ANS) diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of the neuromuscular & nervous systems (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the neuromuscular and nervous systems on physical therapy management
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the neuromuscular & nervous systems (CNS, PNS, ANS)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of regenerative medicine (e.g., platelet rich plasma, stem cells) on physical therapy prognosis and interventions related to the neuromuscular and nervous systems
    • Interventions — Neuromuscular & nervous systems physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the neuromuscular & nervous systems as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the neuromuscular & nervous systems from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the neuromuscular & nervous systems from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
    • Interventions — Motor control as related to neuromuscular & nervous systems physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Motor learning as related to neuromuscular & nervous systems physical therapy interventions
  • INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination 2-3; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 3-4; Interventions 3-4; total per system 8-11 — Physical Therapy Examination — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of integumentary system tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence, and their relevance to information collected from the history and systems review. The category includes the reaction of the integumentary system to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the integumentary system. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions of the integumentary system according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to integumentary system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the integumentary system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Integumentary system tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Anatomy and physiology of the integumentary system as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Movement analysis as related to the integumentary system (e.g., friction, shear, pressure, and scar mobility)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Integumentary system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of the integumentary system (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the integumentary system on physical therapy management
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the integumentary system
    • Interventions — Integumentary system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the integumentary system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the integumentary system from physical therapy and medical/surgical interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the integumentary system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • METABOLIC & ENDOCRINE SYSTEMS — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination not allocated; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 2-3; Interventions 2-3; total per system 4-6 — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions of the metabolic & endocrine systems according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to metabolic & endocrine systems interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the metabolic & endocrine systems of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Metabolic & endocrine systems diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of the metabolic & endocrine systems (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the metabolic and endocrine systems on physical therapy management
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the metabolic & endocrine systems
    • Interventions — Metabolic & endocrine systems physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the metabolic & endocrine systems as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the metabolic & endocrine systems from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the metabolic & endocrine systems from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • GASTROINTESTINAL SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination 1-2; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 1-2; Interventions 1-2; total per system 3-6 — Physical Therapy Examination — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of gastrointestinal system tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence, and their relevance to information collected from the history and systems review. The category includes the reaction of the gastrointestinal system to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the gastrointestinal system. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions of the gastrointestinal system according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to gastrointestinal system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the gastrointestinal system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Gastrointestinal system tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence (e.g., bowel dysfunction impact questionnaires, Murphy test, Rovsing test, McBurney point sign)
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal system as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Movement analysis as related to the gastrointestinal system (e.g., effects of muscular tension or trigger points, positioning for bowel movement)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Gastrointestinal system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of the gastrointestinal system (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the gastrointestinal system on physical therapy management
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the gastrointestinal system
    • Interventions — Gastrointestinal system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence (e.g., positioning for reflux prevention, bowel programs)
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the gastrointestinal system from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the gastrointestinal system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • GENITOURINARY SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination 0-1; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 1-2; Interventions 1-2; total per system 2-5 — Physical Therapy Examination — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of genitourinary system tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence, and their relevance to information collected from the history and systems review. The category includes the reaction of the genitourinary system to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the genitourinary system. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions of the genitourinary system according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to genitourinary system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the genitourinary system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Genitourinary system tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Anatomy and physiology of the genitourinary system as related to tests/measures
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Genitourinary system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of the genitourinary system (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the genitourinary system on physical therapy management
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the genitourinary system
    • Interventions — Genitourinary system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence (e.g., bladder programs, biofeedback, pelvic floor retraining)
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the genitourinary system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the genitourinary system from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the genitourinary system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • LYMPHATIC SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination 1-2; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 1-2; Interventions 2-3; total per system 4-7 — Physical Therapy Examination — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of lymphatic system tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence, and their relevance to information collected from the history and systems review. The category includes the reaction of the lymphatic system to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the lymphatic system. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions of the lymphatic system according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to lymphatic system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the lymphatic system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Lymphatic system tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Examination — Movement analysis as related to the lymphatic system (e.g., compensatory movement, extremity range of motion)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Lymphatic system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of the lymphatic system (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions of the lymphatic system
    • Interventions — Lymphatic system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system as related to interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the lymphatic system from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the lymphatic system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • SYSTEM INTERACTIONS — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Examination not allocated; Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis 8-10; Interventions not allocated; total per system 8-10 — Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — This category refers to the interpretation of knowledge about diseases/conditions involving system interactions according to current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Diseases/conditions where the primary impact is on more than one system (e.g., cancer, multitrauma, sarcoidosis, autoimmune disorders, pregnancy) to establish and carry out a plan of care, including prognosis
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Nonpharmacological medical management of multiple systems (e.g., diagnostic imaging, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — The impact of pharmacology used to treat multiple systems, including polypharmacy, on physical therapy management
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Differential diagnoses related to diseases/conditions where the primary impact is on more than one system
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Impact of comorbidities/coexisting conditions on patient/client management (e.g., diabetes and hypertension; obesity and arthritis; dementia and hip fracture)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Psychological and psychiatric conditions that impact patient/client management (e.g., grief, depression, schizophrenia)
    • Foundations for Evaluation, Differential Diagnosis, & Prognosis — Dimensions of pain (acute or persistent) that impact patient/client management (e.g., psychological, social, physiological, neurological, mechanical)
  • EQUIPMENT, DEVICES, & TECHNOLOGIES — published total per nonsystem 5-6 items — This category refers to the different types of equipment, devices, & technologies, use requirements, and/or contextual determinants, as well as any other influencing factors involved in the selection and application of equipment, devices, & technologies, including consideration of current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Applications and adjustments, indications, contraindications, and precautions of assistive and adaptive devices/technologies (e.g., walkers, wheelchairs, adaptive seating systems and positioning devices, mechanical lifts)
    • Applications and adjustments, indications, contraindications, and precautions of prosthetic devices/technologies (e.g., lower-extremity and upper-extremity prostheses, microprocessor-controlled prosthetic devices)
    • Applications and adjustments, indications, contraindications, and precautions of protective, supportive, and orthotic devices/technologies (e.g., braces, helmets, taping, compression garments, serial casts, shoe inserts, splints)
  • THERAPEUTIC MODALITIES — published total per nonsystem 4-6 items — This category refers to the underlying principles for the use of therapeutic modalities as well as the justification for the selection and use of various types of therapeutic modalities, including consideration of current best evidence, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of thermal modalities
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of iontophoresis
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of electrotherapy modalities, excluding iontophoresis (e.g., neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), functional electrical stimulation (FES), interferential therapy, high-voltage pulsed current)
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of ultrasound modalities, excluding phonophoresis
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of mechanical modalities (e.g., mechanical motion devices, traction devices)
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of biofeedback
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of intermittent compression
  • SAFETY & PROTECTION — published total per nonsystem 5-7 items — This category refers to the critical issues involved in patient/client safety and protection and the responsibilities of health-care providers to ensure that patient/client management and health-care decisions take place in a secure environment.
    • Factors influencing safety and injury prevention (e.g., safe patient handling, fall prevention, equipment maintenance, environmental safety)
    • Function, implications, and related precautions of lines, tubes, catheters, monitoring devices, and mechanical ventilators/oxygen delivery devices
    • Emergency preparedness (e.g., CPR, first aid, disaster response)
    • Infection control procedures (e.g., standard/universal precautions, isolation techniques, sterile technique)
    • Signs/symptoms of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect
  • PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES — published total per nonsystem 4-5 items — This category refers to the responsibilities of health-care providers to ensure that patient/client management and health-care decisions take place in a trustworthy environment.
    • Standards of documentation
    • Patient/client rights (e.g., ADA, IDEA, HIPAA, patient bill of rights)
    • Human resource legal issues (e.g., OSHA, sexual harassment)
    • Roles and responsibilities of the physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, other health-care professionals, and support staff
    • Standards of professional ethics
    • Standards of billing, coding, and reimbursement
    • Obligations for reporting illegal, unethical, or unprofessional behaviors (e.g., fraud, abuse, neglect)
    • State and federal laws, rules, regulations, and industry standards set by state and accrediting bodies (e.g., state licensing entities, Joint Commission, CARF, CMS)
    • Risk management and quality assurance (e.g., policies and procedures, incident reports, peer chart review)
    • Cultural factors and/or characteristics that affect patient/client management (e.g., language differences, disability, ethnicity, customs, demographics, religion)
    • Socioeconomic factors that affect patient/client management
    • Applications and utilization of health information technology (e.g., electronic medical records)
    • The provision and utilization of telehealth (i.e., the use of telecommunication technologies to provide health care information and services)
  • RESEARCH & EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE — published total per nonsystem 3-5 items — This category refers to the application of measurement principles and research methods to make reasoned and appropriate assessment and to the interpretation of information sources and practice research to support patient/client management decisions fundamental to evidence-based practice.
    • Research methodology and interpretation (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, levels of evidence)
    • Data collection techniques (e.g., surveys, direct observation)
    • Measurement science (e.g., reliability, validity)
    • Techniques for accessing evidence (e.g., peer-reviewed publications, scientific proceedings, guidelines, clinical prediction rules)
    • Statistics (e.g., t-test, chi-square, correlation coefficient, ANOVA, likelihood ratio, effect size, confidence interval)
Examination sources

npte-pta

Provider
Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy; delivered at Prometric testing centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination in four sections
Exam questions
180 total items: 140 scored items and 40 pretest items
Time limit
4 hours testing time; 4 hours 30 minutes total appointment time
Passing score
Scaled score of 600
Examination outline
  • CARDIOVASCULAR & PULMONARY SYSTEMS — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection 5-8; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 7-9; Interventions 8-10; total per system 20-27 — Physical Therapy Data Collection — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of cardiovascular & pulmonary systems tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence. The category includes the reaction of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to cardiovascular & pulmonary systems interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Cardiovascular & pulmonary systems tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Movement analysis as related to the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems (e.g., rib cage excursion, breathing pattern)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Cardiovascular & pulmonary systems diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Nonpharmacological medical management of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the cardiovascular & pulmonary system on physical therapy management
    • Interventions — Cardiovascular & pulmonary systems physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the cardiovascular & pulmonary systems from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection 9-12; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 10-13; Interventions 12-15; total per system 31-40 — Physical Therapy Data Collection — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of musculoskeletal system tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence. The category includes the reaction of the musculoskeletal system to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the musculoskeletal system. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions of the musculoskeletal system to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to musculoskeletal system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the musculoskeletal system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Musculoskeletal system tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Movement analysis as related to the musculoskeletal system
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Joint biomechanics and their applications
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Musculoskeletal system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Nonpharmacological medical management of the musculoskeletal system (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the musculoskeletal system on physical therapy management
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Connective tissue diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Interventions — Musculoskeletal system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the musculoskeletal system from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the musculoskeletal system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • NEUROMUSCULAR & NERVOUS SYSTEMS — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection 8-10; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 9-12; Interventions 10-13; total per system 27-35 — Physical Therapy Data Collection — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of neuromuscular & nervous systems tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence. The category includes the reaction of the neuromuscular & nervous systems to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the neuromuscular & nervous systems. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions of the neuromuscular & nervous systems to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to neuromuscular & nervous systems interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the neuromuscular & nervous systems of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Neuromuscular & nervous systems tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Anatomy and physiology of the neuromuscular & nervous systems as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Movement analysis as related to the neuromuscular & nervous systems
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Neuromuscular & nervous systems (CNS, PNS, ANS) diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Nonpharmacological medical management of the neuromuscular & nervous systems (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the neuromuscular and nervous systems on physical therapy management
    • Interventions — Neuromuscular & nervous systems physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the neuromuscular & nervous systems as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the neuromuscular & nervous systems from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the neuromuscular & nervous systems from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
    • Interventions — Motor control as related to neuromuscular & nervous systems physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Motor learning as related to neuromuscular & nervous systems physical therapy interventions
  • INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection 1-2; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 1-3; Interventions 1-3; total per system 3-8 — Physical Therapy Data Collection — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of integumentary system tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence. The category includes the reaction of the integumentary system to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the integumentary system. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions of the integumentary system to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to integumentary system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the integumentary system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Integumentary system tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Anatomy and physiology of the integumentary system as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Movement analysis as related to the integumentary system (e.g., friction, shear, pressure, and scar mobility)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Integumentary system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Nonpharmacological medical management of the integumentary system (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the integumentary system on physical therapy management
    • Interventions — Integumentary system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the integumentary system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the integumentary system from physical therapy and medical/surgical interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the integumentary system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • METABOLIC & ENDOCRINE SYSTEMS — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection not allocated; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 2-3; Interventions 2-3; total per system 4-6 — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions of the metabolic & endocrine systems to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to metabolic & endocrine systems interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the metabolic & endocrine systems of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Metabolic & endocrine systems diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Nonpharmacological medical management of the metabolic & endocrine systems (e.g., diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — The impact of pharmacology used to treat the metabolic and endocrine systems on physical therapy management
    • Interventions — Metabolic & endocrine systems physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the metabolic & endocrine systems as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the metabolic & endocrine systems from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the metabolic & endocrine systems from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • GASTROINTESTINAL SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection not allocated; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 0-2; Interventions 0-2; total per system 0-4 — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions of the gastrointestinal system to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to gastrointestinal system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the gastrointestinal system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Gastrointestinal system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Nonpharmacological medical management of the gastrointestinal system (e.g., surgical procedures, diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests)
    • Interventions — Gastrointestinal system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence (e.g., positioning for reflux prevention, bowel programs)
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the gastrointestinal system from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the gastrointestinal system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • GENITOURINARY SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection not allocated; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 0-2; Interventions 0-2; total per system 0-4 — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions of the genitourinary system to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to genitourinary system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the genitourinary system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Genitourinary system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Nonpharmacological medical management of the genitourinary system (e.g., surgical procedures, diagnostic imaging, laboratory test values, other medical tests)
    • Interventions — Genitourinary system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence (e.g., bladder programs, biofeedback, pelvic floor retraining)
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the genitourinary system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the genitourinary system from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the genitourinary system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • LYMPHATIC SYSTEM — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection 0-2; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 1-2; Interventions 1-2; total per system 2-6 — Physical Therapy Data Collection — This category refers to knowledge of the types and applications of lymphatic system tests/measures, including outcome measures, according to current best evidence. The category includes the reaction of the lymphatic system to tests/measures and the mechanics of body movement as related to the lymphatic system. Information covered in these areas supports appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions of the lymphatic system to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan. — Interventions — This category refers to lymphatic system interventions (including types, applications, responses, and potential complications), according to current best evidence, as well as the impact on the lymphatic system of interventions performed on other systems in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Lymphatic system tests/measures, including outcome measures, and their applications according to current best evidence
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system as related to tests/measures
    • Physical Therapy Data Collection — Movement analysis as related to the lymphatic system (e.g., compensatory movement, extremity range of motion)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Lymphatic system diseases/conditions and their pathophysiology to carry out the established plan of care
    • Interventions — Lymphatic system physical therapy interventions and their applications for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance according to current best evidence
    • Interventions — Anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system as related to physical therapy interventions, daily activities, and environmental factors
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the lymphatic system from physical therapy interventions
    • Interventions — Adverse effects or complications on the lymphatic system from physical therapy interventions used on other systems
  • SYSTEM INTERACTIONS — published item ranges: Physical Therapy Data Collection not allocated; Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment 5-7; Interventions not allocated; total per system 5-7 — Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — This category refers to foundational scientific principles and knowledge of diseases and conditions involving system interactions to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Diseases/conditions where the primary impact is on more than one system (e.g., cancer, multitrauma, sarcoidosis, autoimmune disorders, pregnancy) to carry out the established plan of care
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Nonpharmacological medical management of multiple systems (e.g., diagnostic imaging, other medical tests, surgical procedures)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — The impact of pharmacology used to treat multiple systems, including polypharmacy, on physical therapy management
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Impact of comorbidities/coexisting conditions on patient/client management (e.g., diabetes and hypertension; obesity and arthritis; dementia and hip fracture)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Psychological and psychiatric conditions that impact patient/client management (e.g., grief, depression, schizophrenia)
    • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment — Dimensions of pain (acute or persistent) that impact patient/client management (e.g., psychological, social, physiological, neurological, mechanical)
  • EQUIPMENT, DEVICES, & TECHNOLOGIES — published total per nonsystem 8-10 items — This category refers to the different types of equipment, devices, & technologies, use requirements, and/or contextual determinants, according to current best evidence, as well as any other influencing factors involved in the application of equipment, devices, & technologies, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Application and adjustments, indications, contraindications, and precautions of assistive and adaptive devices/technologies (e.g., walkers, wheelchairs, adaptive seating systems and positioning devices, mechanical lifts)
    • Application and adjustments, indications, contraindications, and precautions of prosthetic devices/technologies (e.g., lower-extremity and upper-extremity prostheses)
    • Application and adjustments, indications, contraindications, and precautions of protective, supportive, and orthotic devices/technologies (e.g., braces, helmets, compression garments, shoe inserts, splints)
  • THERAPEUTIC MODALITIES — published total per nonsystem 5-7 items — This category refers to the different types of therapeutic modalities, use requirements, and/or contextual determinants, according to current best evidence, as well as any other influencing factors involved in the application of therapeutic modalities, in order to support appropriate and effective patient/client management for rehabilitation, health promotion, and performance across the lifespan.
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of thermal modalities
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of iontophoresis
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of electrotherapy modalities, excluding iontophoresis (e.g., neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), functional electrical stimulation (FES), interferential therapy, high-voltage pulsed current)
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of ultrasound modalities
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of mechanical modalities (e.g., mechanical motion devices, traction devices)
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of biofeedback
    • Applications, indications, contraindications, and precautions of intermittent pneumatic compression
  • SAFETY & PROTECTION — published total per nonsystem 6-8 items — This category refers to the critical issues involved in patient/client safety and protection and the responsibilities of health-care providers to ensure that patient/client management and health-care decisions take place in a secure environment.
    • Factors influencing safety and injury prevention (e.g., safe patient handling, fall prevention, equipment maintenance, environmental safety)
    • Function, implications, and related precautions of intravenous lines, tubes, catheters, monitoring devices, and mechanical ventilators/oxygen delivery devices
    • Emergency preparedness (e.g., CPR, first aid, disaster response)
    • Infection control procedures (e.g., standard/universal precautions, isolation techniques, sterile technique)
    • Signs/symptoms of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect
  • PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES — published total per nonsystem 2-4 items — This category refers to the responsibilities of health-care providers to ensure that patient/client management and health-care decisions take place in a trustworthy environment.
    • Standards of documentation
    • Patient/client rights (e.g., ADA, IDEA, HIPAA, patient bill of rights)
    • Human resource legal issues (e.g., OSHA, sexual harassment)
    • Roles and responsibilities of the physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, other health-care professionals, and support staff
    • Standards of professional ethics
    • Standards of billing, coding, and reimbursement
    • Obligations for reporting illegal, unethical, or unprofessional behaviors (e.g., fraud, abuse, neglect)
    • State and federal laws, rules, regulations, and industry standards set by state and accrediting bodies (e.g., state licensing entities, Joint Commission, CARF, CMS)
    • Risk management and quality assurance (e.g., policies and procedures, incident reports, peer chart review)
    • Cultural factors and/or characteristics that affect patient/client management (e.g., language differences, disability, ethnicity, customs, demographics, religion, health literacy)
    • Socioeconomic factors that affect patient/client management (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • Applications and utilization of health information technology (e.g., electronic medical records)
  • RESEARCH & EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE — published total per nonsystem 1-3 items — This category refers to the knowledge of basic research methods and data collection techniques necessary for interpretation of information sources and practice research to support patient/client management decisions fundamental to evidence-based practice.
    • Research methodology and interpretation (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, levels of evidence)
    • Data collection techniques (e.g., surveys, direct observation)
    • Measurement science (e.g., reliability, validity)
    • Techniques for accessing evidence (e.g., peer-reviewed publications, scientific proceedings, guidelines, clinical prediction rules)
Examination sources