This page has all of the information laid out in steps, including application forms, and fees to become a physical therapist assistant in California and get licensed.
The Physical Therapy Board of California (PTBC) regulates all PTA license applicants through their website. Like other states, you must first graduate from an accredited PTA program before applying for your PTA license in California.
Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements before applying or else you will not be refunded your application fees.
Steps to Become a PTA in California
- Graduate from an accredited PTA program
- Obtain a P1E form which is a certificate of completion from your PTA program and keep it in its sealed envelope
- CA residents must obtain Live Scan Finger Print Processing and submit their results to the PTBC (Out of state residents see fingerprinting instructions here)
- Apply for your CA PTA license and submit your P1E form ($125 application fee + $49 for non CA residents fingerprinting see fees)
- Take and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) ($425.60 exam fee see exam registration info)
- Take and pass the California Law Examination (CLE) a one hour multiple choice exam ($50 exam fee)
- Expect your exam scores within 30 days and then your PTA license to be processed and mailed within 45 days of the exam scores being published
California PTA License Application
For detailed information and instructions to become a PTA in California, see the board’s Application form. To download the form, right click the icon to the right and then click on “Save As” to save the PDF file.
TESTING ACCOMMODATIONS: View the disability accommodations form if you have testing disabilities and need special accommodations.
Obtaining your CA PTA license by exam is the most common method of becoming a licensed PTA in California. It is important to prepare for the exam sufficiently because you can only take the exam 3 times during a 12-month period.
California PTA Study Guides for NPTE and CLE Exams
- National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) Information and Study Guide
- California Law Examination (CLE) Information and Study Guide
Physical Therapy Board of California Contact Info
Physical Therapy Board of California
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1350
Sacramento, CA 95815
Telephone: (916) 561-8200
Fax: (916) 263-2560
Hearing-impaired persons may call TDD (800) 326-2297
More PTA Info for California:
Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.
Step 1. Graduate from a CAPTE-Accredited Physical Therapist Assistant Program
To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in California, it is necessary to graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program. This program typically requires completion of an associate’s degree in physical therapist assisting. You can enter your zip code below to see programs near you.
You can also use these resources to research CAPTE Accredited PTA Programs:
The coursework in a CAPTE-accredited PTA program covers a range of topics related to physical therapy. Students can expect to take classes such as Introduction to Human Movement and Orthopedic Exercise and Rehabilitation, which provide a solid foundation in the field. These courses are designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a PTA.
In addition to coursework, students in a PTA program are required to complete a minimum of 500 hours of direct clinical practice. This hands-on experience is crucial for gaining real-world, practical skills and knowledge. It allows students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to actual patient care situations under the guidance of experienced physical therapists.
By graduating from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program in California, individuals are able to fulfill the education requirements needed to apply for a PTA license. This is the first step towards a rewarding career in the field of physical therapy.
Step 2. Submit an Application for Examination and Licensure in California
To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in California, you must first submit an application for examination and licensure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Gather the required documents: You will need to complete the application for licensure, which can be downloaded from the Physical Therapy Board of California (PTBC) website. In addition, you will need to provide proof of completing a physical therapy program, such as a Certificate of Completion Form, and undergo Live Scan Fingerprinting.
2. Pay the application fee: The application fee for a PTA license in California is $300. Be sure to include payment with your application.
3. Mail your application: Once you have completed the application and gathered all the required documents, mail them to the PTBC at the following address:
Physical Therapy Board of California
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1350
Sacramento, CA 95815
4. Processing time: The processing time for an application can vary, but it generally takes about 8-12 weeks. It is recommended to submit your application well in advance to allow ample time for processing.
Submitting an application for examination and licensure is an important step on your journey to becoming a licensed PTA in California. By following these steps and providing the necessary documents and fees, you are one step closer to beginning your career in physical therapy.
Step 3. Pass National and California State Licensing Examinations
To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in California, you must successfully pass both the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs and the California Law Examination (CLE). These exams are designed to assess your knowledge of PTA concepts and ensure you understand the state laws regarding physical therapy practice.
The NPTE for PTAs is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). It is a comprehensive examination that tests your understanding of various aspects related to physical therapy. Registering and scheduling the exam can be done on the FSBPT’s website. Once you have registered, you will be able to choose a convenient date and location to take the exam at a Prometric testing center.
In addition to the NPTE for PTAs, you will also need to pass the California Law Examination (CLE). This exam specifically focuses on the laws and regulations governing physical therapy practice in the state of California. It ensures that you are aware of the legal framework within which PTAs must work.
To summarize, passing the National and California State Licensing Examinations is an essential step in obtaining your PTA license in California. By successfully completing these exams, you demonstrate your competence in PTA concepts and your understanding of the state’s laws and regulations related to physical therapy practice.
Step 4. Start Your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in California
If you’re looking to start your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in California, there are several organizations that hire PTAs throughout the state. Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and independent practices are just a few of the places where you can find PTA job opportunities.
One organization that hires PTAs in Los Angeles is Looking Forward, Inc. They are dedicated to providing high-quality therapy services to children and adults with developmental disabilities. With a team of experienced therapists, including PTAs, they offer comprehensive treatment plans and innovative therapy techniques.
Another organization in Los Angeles that hires PTAs is Valley Hills Physical Therapy. Their mission is to help their patients recover from injuries and improve their physical function. They have an experienced team of PTAs who work closely with physical therapists to provide personalized care to each patient.
In addition to these specific organizations, there are numerous other hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and independent practices throughout California that hire PTAs. These facilities offer a variety of settings and populations to work with, giving PTAs the opportunity to gain valuable experience.
Whether you are looking to work in a hospital, rehabilitation center, nursing home, or independent practice, there are plenty of opportunities for PTAs in California. These organizations provide an important role in helping patients recover, improve their mobility, and enhance their quality of life.
Step 5. Complete Continuing Competency Hours to Renew Your License
To renew your California Physical Therapy license, it is important to fulfill the requirements for continuing competency hours. The renewal cycle for physical therapists in California is every two years. Here are the requirements you need to meet:
1. Basic Life Support (BLS): You must complete four hours of BLS training or certification during your renewal period.
2. Ethics, Laws, and Regulations: You are required to complete two hours of coursework in ethics, laws, and regulations related to the practice of physical therapy.
3. Other Coursework: In addition to the above requirements, you must also complete 24 hours of additional continuing competency coursework. This can include courses that enhance your professional skills, knowledge, and practice.
You have several options for earning continuing competency hours. These include:
– Attending Continuing Education Courses: You can participate in workshops, seminars, or online courses approved by the Physical Therapy Board of California.
– College Coursework: You can earn continuing competency hours by completing relevant coursework at an accredited college or university.
– Conferences: Attending conferences related to physical therapy can also fulfill your continuing competency requirements.
– Serving in Specific Roles: Serving as a clinical instructor or expert consultant can earn you continuing competency hours.
Ensuring that you complete your continuing competency hours is vital to maintaining the validity of your California Physical Therapy license. Make sure to plan and complete these hours within the renewal cycle to avoid any delays or issues with your license renewal.
Why Be a PTA in California?
Aside from California being one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. there are many reasons you may want to become a California PTA and pursue your PTA career in California.
- If you are still looking for an accredited PTA Program then there are many great California PTA schools for you to choose from.
- California is one of the highest paying states when it comes to PTA salaries, checkout average PTA salaries in California.
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