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Utah Physical Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

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Physical Therapist

Utah license to practice physical therapy as a physical therapist under Utah Code Title 58, Chapter 24b, Physical Therapy Practice Act, issued by DOPL.

Licensing authority: Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) · Application information

Licensure by endorsement on a Division determination of substantially similar qualifications (Utah Code 58 1 302(3))
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Application
Complete the application process and pay fees.
Background Check
Consent to and complete a criminal background check under Utah Code 58-1-301.5 (fingerprints) and disclose criminal history the Division requests (Utah Code 58-24b-302).
Eligibility
Utah Code 58-1-302(3): licensed in another U.S. jurisdiction or a jurisdiction outside the United States where the Division determines the applicant's education, credentialing examination, experience and skills demonstrate competency (with at least one year of experience under that license) or that the other jurisdiction's requirements were substantially similar; or never licensed but educated or experienced where the Division determines the education, credentialing examination and experience were substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
English
Be able to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in English and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the board if requested (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(d), (2)(d), (3)(d), (4)(b)); any language test is a condition, not a leaf.
Exam Discretion
R156-1-302(4): the Division may require an applicant for licensure by endorsement to pass one or more of the exams required to obtain licensure in the profession; the exam required for this licence is the NPTE-PT (R156-24b-302b).
Foreign Education
An applicant educated outside the United States submits an FCCPT Type 1 Review credential evaluation (R156-24b-302a(3)).
Limited Supervised Training Permit
While the Division evaluates an applicant under Utah Code 58-1-302(6), it may issue a limited supervised training permit (recorded as a separate credential).
Licensure by endorsement: physical therapist licensed in another U.S. state, district, or territory
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Application
Complete the application process and pay fees.
Application Checklist
The DOPL application checklist for licensure by endorsement lists only the official license verification in addition to the items required of all applicants; it is an implementation source ranked below R156-24b-302b(3).
Background Check
Consent to and complete a criminal background check under Utah Code 58-1-301.5 (fingerprints) and disclose criminal history the Division requests (Utah Code 58-24b-302).
Education Or Score Transfer
Document education through the school (R156-24b-302a(1)(b) or (2)(b)) or have FSBPT send the passing score transfer directly to the Division (R156-24b-302a(4)).
English
Be able to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in English and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the board if requested (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(d), (2)(d), (3)(d), (4)(b)); any language test is a condition, not a leaf.
Experience
At least one year of experience practicing under the other jurisdiction's license (Utah Code 58-1-302(2)(b)); DOPL requires official license verification showing active licensure in good standing for at least one year from a jurisdiction DOPL designates as equivalent (DOPL endorsement sheet and application checklist). R156-1-302(2) states the other license need not be currently active if the required experience was obtained.
Jurisdiction Specific Documentation
DOPL endorsement sheet: applicants licensed in American Samoa, Guam or Puerto Rico must also document a passing NPTE score.
License Held
Hold a current unrestricted physical therapist license issued by another U.S. state, district, or territory (Utah Code 58-24b-302(4); R156-24b-302a(4)), with a similar scope of practice and in good standing (Utah Code 58-1-302(2)).
Prior Examination
The NPTE-PT leaf is normally satisfied by a passing score earned for the original license: R156-24b-302b(3) requires every applicant for licensure to have FSBPT send the passing examination score to the Division, the DOPL endorsement sheet lists "Pass the NPTE" among Utah qualifications, and R156-1-302(4) lets the Division require an endorsement applicant to pass the exams required for licensure.
Licensure by examination: physical therapist educated outside the United States
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Application
Complete the application process and pay fees.
Authorization To Test
DOPL requires a Request for Authorization to Test with the FCCPT review before sitting for the examination through Utah; after passing, a complete licensure application is filed (DOPL form F-24bTest-App).
Background Check
Consent to and complete a criminal background check under Utah Code 58-1-301.5 (fingerprints) and disclose criminal history the Division requests (Utah Code 58-24b-302).
Education
Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited program, or from a physical therapist program recognized by the government of the country where it is located and pass a credential evaluation (Utah Code 58-24b-302(3)(b)); submit an FCCPT Type 1 Review credential evaluation verifying English proficiency and CAPTE equivalence (R156-24b-302a(3)).
Education Deficiencies
Pre-professional deficiencies may be corrected by college-level credits or by passing the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) (R156-24b-302a(3)(b)(ii)(C)); CLEP is another testing program and is a condition, not a leaf.
English
Be able to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in English and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the board if requested (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(d), (2)(d), (3)(d), (4)(b)); any language test is a condition, not a leaf.
Exam Timing
Pass the NPTE-PT after satisfying the education requirement of Utah Code 58-24b-302(3)(b).
Foreign License Verification
DOPL Request for Authorization to Test (implementation source) states the applicant must provide "verification of licensure as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant in the country where my education was completed"; this form requirement is not stated in Utah Code 58-24b-302 or R156-24b.
Score Report
FSBPT sends the passing score directly to the Division (R156-24b-302b(3)).
Licensure by examination: graduate of a CAPTE accredited physical therapist education program in the United States
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Application
Complete the application process and pay fees.
Background Check
Consent to and complete a criminal background check under Utah Code 58-1-301.5 (fingerprints) and disclose criminal history the Division requests (Utah Code 58-24b-302).
Education
Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy education program in a U.S. state, district, or territory; the school sends the transcript or a program-director letter directly to the Division (R156-24b-302a(1)).
English
Be able to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in English and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the board if requested (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(d), (2)(d), (3)(d), (4)(b)); any language test is a condition, not a leaf.
Exam Timing
Pass the NPTE-PT after graduating, or while in the final term of an accredited professional physical therapist education program (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(c)); DOPL states candidates may register with FSBPT if they are graduates of, or within 90 days of graduation from, a CAPTE-accredited school.
Score Report
The applicant ensures FSBPT sends the passing score directly to the Division; an applicant who did not test for Utah submits an FSBPT score transfer (R156-24b-302b(3); DOPL application checklist).
Activation of an inactive physical therapist license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Verified application for activation, fee, and documentation that the licensee meets current renewal requirements (R156-1-305(4)).
Eligibility
A physical therapist license placed on inactive status while active and in good standing (R156-1-305(1)(cc)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after active practice in U.S. government service or under another state license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application for reinstatement, renewal and reinstatement fees, and documentation of renewal qualifications; Utah Code 58-1-308(6)(b) provides reinstatement "without taking an examination".
Eligibility
Continuously active in the profession since the Utah license expired, in full-time U.S. government employment or under a license in another U.S. state or territory (Utah Code 58-1-308(6)(b); R156-1-308g(3)(b)).
Timing
Apply within six months after reestablishing Utah domicile or ending full-time government service.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a license that was active and in good standing when it expired, two to five years after expiration
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Application
Application demonstrating compliance with renewal requirements, renewal and reinstatement fees, continuing education for each renewal period the license was expired, and a criminal background check if not previously completed (R156-24b-303a(3)(a)-(b)).
Eligibility
License was active and in good standing when it expired; application filed between two and five years after expiration (R156-24b-303a(3)).
Exam Discretion
The NPTE-PT is required only if the Division in collaboration with the Board determines examination or reexamination is necessary (R156-24b-303a(3)(c)(ii)). The rule names "NPTE-PT or NPTE-PTA"; this route maps the physical therapist licence to the NPTE-PT under the R156-24b-102(8) definition that ties each NPTE to its licensure.
Other Reentry Requirements
Alternatively or additionally, if required: meet with the Board, complete a Board-approved supervision plan of up to 4,000 hours under a temporary license, or meet any other condition the Division and Board consider necessary (R156-24b-303a(3)(c)).
Reinstatement of an expired license within two years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed renewal form demonstrating compliance with renewal requirements and pay the renewal fee plus a late fee (within 30 days) or a reinstatement fee (31 days to two years) (R156-1-308g).
Timing
Application filed within two years after the license expired (Utah Code 58-1-308(5)(a)(ii)(A); R156-1-308g(1)-(2)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by new application after long expiration, suspension or restriction, revocation, or surrender not in good standing
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Current Qualifications
Submit an application as required of an initial applicant demonstrating current qualifications for licensure, which include passing the NPTE-PT (R156-24b-302b); a passing score earned earlier is reported by FSBPT (R156-24b-302b(3)).
Disciplinary Terms
Disciplinary orders may set other terms; applicants after discipline provide information showing current competence and pay outstanding fines or citations (R156-1-308i to R156-1-308k).
Eligibility
Applies to a license not reinstated under the time-limited reinstatement routes (Utah Code 58-1-308(6)(a); R156-1-308g(3)(a), beyond the R156-24b-303a(3) two-to-five-year window), to reinstatement after suspension or a restricted/probationary expiration (R156-1-308i), to relicensure after revocation (R156-1-308j), and to relicensure after surrender not in good standing (R156-1-308k(2)).
Renewal of licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the renewal application and renewal fee before the expiration date (Utah Code 58-1-308(3)).
Continuing Education
Provide satisfactory evidence of continuing education competency requirements (Utah Code 58-24b-303(2); R156-24b-303b).
Cycle
Two-year renewal cycle ending May 31 of odd-numbered years (R156-1-308a; R156-24b-303b(1)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Physical Therapist Assistant

Utah license to practice physical therapy as a physical therapist assistant under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist (Utah Code 58-24b-302(2), 58-24b-401(2)).

Licensing authority: Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) · Application information

Licensure by endorsement on a Division determination of substantially similar qualifications (Utah Code 58 1 302(3))
npte-pta
Application
Complete the application process and pay fees.
Background Check
Consent to and complete a criminal background check under Utah Code 58-1-301.5 (fingerprints) and disclose criminal history the Division requests (Utah Code 58-24b-302).
Eligibility
Utah Code 58-1-302(3): licensed in another U.S. jurisdiction or a jurisdiction outside the United States where the Division determines the applicant's education, credentialing examination, experience and skills demonstrate competency (with at least one year of experience under that license) or that the other jurisdiction's requirements were substantially similar; or never licensed but educated or experienced where the Division determines the education, credentialing examination and experience were substantially similar to current Utah requirements.
English
Be able to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in English and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the board if requested (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(d), (2)(d), (3)(d), (4)(b)); any language test is a condition, not a leaf.
Exam Discretion
R156-1-302(4): the Division may require an applicant for licensure by endorsement to pass one or more of the exams required to obtain licensure in the profession; the exam required for this licence is the NPTE-PTA (R156-24b-302b).
Foreign Education
An applicant licensed or educated outside the United States submits an FCCPT credential evaluation (R156-24b-302a(5)(b)).
Limited Supervised Training Permit
While the Division evaluates an applicant under Utah Code 58-1-302(6), it may issue a limited supervised training permit (recorded as a separate credential).
Licensure by endorsement: physical therapist assistant licensed in another U.S. state, district, or territory
npte-pta
Application
Complete the application process and pay fees.
Application Checklist
The DOPL application checklist for licensure by endorsement lists only the official license verification in addition to the items required of all applicants; it is an implementation source ranked below R156-24b-302b(3).
Background Check
Consent to and complete a criminal background check under Utah Code 58-1-301.5 (fingerprints) and disclose criminal history the Division requests (Utah Code 58-24b-302).
Education Or Score Transfer
Document education through the school (R156-24b-302a(1)(b) or (2)(b)) or have FSBPT send the passing score transfer directly to the Division (R156-24b-302a(4)).
English
Be able to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in English and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the board if requested (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(d), (2)(d), (3)(d), (4)(b)); any language test is a condition, not a leaf.
Experience
At least one year of experience practicing under the other jurisdiction's license (Utah Code 58-1-302(2)(b)); DOPL requires official license verification showing active licensure in good standing for at least one year from a jurisdiction DOPL designates as equivalent (DOPL endorsement sheet and application checklist). R156-1-302(2) states the other license need not be currently active if the required experience was obtained.
Jurisdiction Specific Documentation
DOPL endorsement sheet: applicants licensed in Guam must also document a passing NPTE-PTA score.
License Held
Hold a current unrestricted physical therapist assistant license issued by another U.S. state, district, or territory (Utah Code 58-24b-302(4); R156-24b-302a(4)), with a similar scope of practice and in good standing (Utah Code 58-1-302(2)).
Prior Examination
The NPTE-PTA leaf is normally satisfied by a passing score earned for the original license: R156-24b-302b(3) requires every applicant for licensure to have FSBPT send the passing examination score to the Division, the DOPL endorsement sheet lists "Pass the NPTE" among Utah qualifications, and R156-1-302(4) lets the Division require an endorsement applicant to pass the exams required for licensure.
Licensure by examination: physical therapist assistant educated outside the United States
npte-pta
Application
Complete the application process and pay fees.
Authorization To Test
DOPL requires a Request for Authorization to Test with the FCCPT review before sitting for the examination through Utah; after passing, a complete licensure application is filed (DOPL form F-24bTest-App).
Background Check
Consent to and complete a criminal background check under Utah Code 58-1-301.5 (fingerprints) and disclose criminal history the Division requests (Utah Code 58-24b-302).
Education
An applicant licensed or educated outside the United States submits an FCCPT credential evaluation meeting R156-24b-302a(3)(a) and (b) (R156-24b-302a(5)(b)); DOPL names the FCCPT Educational Equivalency Review (PTA-EER).
English
Be able to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in English and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the board if requested (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(d), (2)(d), (3)(d), (4)(b)); any language test is a condition, not a leaf.
Foreign License Verification
DOPL Request for Authorization to Test (implementation source) states the applicant must provide "verification of licensure as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant in the country where my education was completed"; this form requirement is not stated in Utah Code 58-24b-302 or R156-24b.
Score Report
FSBPT sends the passing score directly to the Division (R156-24b-302b(3)).
Licensure by examination: graduate of a CAPTE accredited physical therapist assistant education program in the United States
npte-pta
Application
Complete the application process and pay fees.
Background Check
Consent to and complete a criminal background check under Utah Code 58-1-301.5 (fingerprints) and disclose criminal history the Division requests (Utah Code 58-24b-302).
Education
Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant education program (associate, bachelor or master degree) or from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy education program; the school sends the transcript or program-director letter directly to the Division (R156-24b-302a(2), (5)(a)).
English
Be able to read, write, speak, understand, and be understood in English and demonstrate proficiency to the satisfaction of the board if requested (Utah Code 58-24b-302(1)(d), (2)(d), (3)(d), (4)(b)); any language test is a condition, not a leaf.
Exam Timing
Pass the NPTE-PTA after graduating, or while in the final term of an accredited physical therapist assistant education program (Utah Code 58-24b-302(2)(c)).
Failed Npte Pt Candidates
R156-24b-302b(4): an applicant for physical therapist licensure who fails the NPTE-PT is eligible to register with FSBPT to sit for the NPTE-PTA.
Score Report
The applicant ensures FSBPT sends the passing score directly to the Division; an applicant who did not test for Utah submits an FSBPT score transfer (R156-24b-302b(3); DOPL application checklist).
Reinstatement after active practice in U.S. government service or under another state license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application for reinstatement, renewal and reinstatement fees, and documentation of renewal qualifications; Utah Code 58-1-308(6)(b) provides reinstatement "without taking an examination".
Eligibility
Continuously active in the profession since the Utah license expired, in full-time U.S. government employment or under a license in another U.S. state or territory (Utah Code 58-1-308(6)(b); R156-1-308g(3)(b)).
Timing
Apply within six months after reestablishing Utah domicile or ending full-time government service.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a license that was active and in good standing when it expired, two to five years after expiration
npte-pta
Application
Application demonstrating compliance with renewal requirements, renewal and reinstatement fees, continuing education for each renewal period the license was expired, and a criminal background check if not previously completed (R156-24b-303a(3)(a)-(b)).
Eligibility
License was active and in good standing when it expired; application filed between two and five years after expiration (R156-24b-303a(3)).
Exam Discretion
The NPTE-PTA is required only if the Division in collaboration with the Board determines examination or reexamination is necessary (R156-24b-303a(3)(c)(ii)). The rule names "NPTE-PT or NPTE-PTA"; this route maps the physical therapist assistant licence to the NPTE-PTA under the R156-24b-102(8) definition that ties each NPTE to its licensure.
Other Reentry Requirements
Alternatively or additionally, if required: meet with the Board, complete a Board-approved supervision plan of up to 4,000 hours under a temporary license, or meet any other condition the Division and Board consider necessary (R156-24b-303a(3)(c)).
Reinstatement of an expired license within two years after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed renewal form demonstrating compliance with renewal requirements and pay the renewal fee plus a late fee (within 30 days) or a reinstatement fee (31 days to two years) (R156-1-308g).
Timing
Application filed within two years after the license expired (Utah Code 58-1-308(5)(a)(ii)(A); R156-1-308g(1)-(2)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by new application after long expiration, suspension or restriction, revocation, or surrender not in good standing
npte-pta
Current Qualifications
Submit an application as required of an initial applicant demonstrating current qualifications for licensure, which include passing the NPTE-PTA (R156-24b-302b); a passing score earned earlier is reported by FSBPT (R156-24b-302b(3)).
Disciplinary Terms
Disciplinary orders may set other terms; applicants after discipline provide information showing current competence and pay outstanding fines or citations (R156-1-308i to R156-1-308k).
Eligibility
Applies to a license not reinstated under the time-limited reinstatement routes (Utah Code 58-1-308(6)(a); R156-1-308g(3)(a), beyond the R156-24b-303a(3) two-to-five-year window), to reinstatement after suspension or a restricted/probationary expiration (R156-1-308i), to relicensure after revocation (R156-1-308j), and to relicensure after surrender not in good standing (R156-1-308k(2)).
Renewal of licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the renewal application and renewal fee before the expiration date (Utah Code 58-1-308(3)).
Continuing Education
Provide satisfactory evidence of continuing education competency requirements (Utah Code 58-24b-303(2); R156-24b-303b).
Cycle
Two-year renewal cycle ending May 31 of odd-numbered years (R156-1-308a; R156-24b-303b(1)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Physical Therapist License

Temporary physical therapist license issued by DOPL under Utah Code 58-1-303(1) and 58-1-302.1 and Utah Admin. Code R156-24b-305.

Licensing authority: Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) · Application information

Temporary physical therapist license for an emergency, a lack of services, or supervised observation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Licensed in another state whose requirements when the license was obtained were equal to or greater than Utah's, upon a Division finding with the Board that a temporary license is necessary or justified by an emergency or governmental action, a lack of necessary services, or a need to observe the applicant in monitored practice before deciding on a regular license (Utah Code 58-1-303(1)(c); R156-1-303(2)(a)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary physical therapist license while awaiting the licensure examination
Physical Therapist Licensure Examination
Eligibility
Meets every qualification for physical therapist licensure except passing the required examination; graduated from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy school within three months before applying; registered with FSBPT to take the NPTE-PT (R156-24b-305(1)).
Examination
The licensee takes the next available examination (Utah Code 58-1-303(1)(a)(i)); the licence is issued because the NPTE-PT is pending.
Expiry
Expires at the earliest of six months after issuance, the date the examination agency notifies the Division that the applicant failed the examination, or issuance of the full license; not renewable or extendable except under Utah Code 58-1-302(6)(c)(ii) (R156-24b-305(2)-(3)). The DOPL temporary application (implementation source, ranked below the rule) says the license is valid for 6 months "or upon failing the required exam twice".
Limit
No more than three consecutive temporary licenses under Utah Code 58-1-303(1)(a) within three years after the first (Utah Code 58-1-303(2)).
Supervision
If employed as a physical therapist, practices under the direct and on-site supervision of a physical therapist holding an active non-temporary license (R156-24b-305(1)(b)).
Temporary license for telemedicine pending a physical therapist endorsement application
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Holds a nonresident health care license in good standing, has completed an application for licensure by endorsement under Utah Code 58-1-302, and the Division determines it cannot process that application within 15 days (Utah Code 58-1-302.1(3)).
Scope
Authorizes telemedicine services to patients located in Utah within the scope of the nonresident license (Utah Code 58-1-302.1(2)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary physical therapist license to teach or assist a Utah licensee
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Licensed in another state or country and in Utah temporarily to teach or assist a Utah resident licensed in the profession (Utah Code 58-1-303(1)(b)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Physical Therapist Assistant License

Temporary physical therapist assistant license issued by DOPL under Utah Code 58-1-303(1) and 58-1-302.1 and Utah Admin. Code R156-24b-305.

Licensing authority: Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) · Application information

Temporary physical therapist assistant license for an emergency, a lack of services, or supervised observation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Licensed in another state whose requirements when the license was obtained were equal to or greater than Utah's, upon a Division finding with the Board that a temporary license is necessary or justified by an emergency or governmental action, a lack of necessary services, or a need to observe the applicant in monitored practice before deciding on a regular license (Utah Code 58-1-303(1)(c); R156-1-303(2)(a)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary physical therapist assistant license while awaiting the licensure examination
npte-pta
Eligibility
Meets every qualification for physical therapist assistant licensure except passing the required examination; graduated from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapy school within three months before applying; registered with FSBPT to take the NPTE-PTA (R156-24b-305(1)).
Examination
The licensee takes the next available examination (Utah Code 58-1-303(1)(a)(i)); the licence is issued because the NPTE-PTA is pending.
Expiry
Expires at the earliest of six months after issuance, the date the examination agency notifies the Division that the applicant failed the examination, or issuance of the full license; not renewable or extendable except under Utah Code 58-1-302(6)(c)(ii) (R156-24b-305(2)-(3)). The DOPL temporary application (implementation source, ranked below the rule) says the license is valid for 6 months "or upon failing the required exam twice".
Limit
No more than three consecutive temporary licenses under Utah Code 58-1-303(1)(a) within three years after the first (Utah Code 58-1-303(2)).
Supervision
If employed as a physical therapist, practices under the direct and on-site supervision of a physical therapist holding an active non-temporary license (R156-24b-305(1)(b)).
Temporary license for telemedicine pending a physical therapist assistant endorsement application
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Holds a nonresident health care license in good standing, has completed an application for licensure by endorsement under Utah Code 58-1-302, and the Division determines it cannot process that application within 15 days (Utah Code 58-1-302.1(3)).
Scope
Authorizes telemedicine services to patients located in Utah within the scope of the nonresident license (Utah Code 58-1-302.1(2)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary physical therapist assistant license to teach or assist a Utah licensee
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligibility
Licensed in another state or country and in Utah temporarily to teach or assist a Utah resident licensed in the profession (Utah Code 58-1-303(1)(b)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

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