✔️ Page updated: August 19th, 2023
This page has all of the information laid out in steps, including application forms, and fees to become a physical therapist assistant in Michigan and get licensed.
All PTA licensing in Michigan is regulated by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
Below are the requirements to become a licensed PTA in Michigan.
PTA License Requirement | Required in Michigan? |
|---|---|
| Complete Accredited PTA Program | Yes |
| Send Official Transcripts Directly from School to State PT Board | Yes |
| Complete PTA License Application | Yes |
| Pay non-refundable application fee | Yes, $135 |
| Complete Jurisprudence Exam | Yes |
| Pass the National Physical Therapy Assistant Exam (NPTAE) | Yes, $370 |
Michigan PTA License Application
For detailed information and instructions to become a PTA in Michigan, 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.
Michigan PTA Board Contact Info
Bureau of Health Care Services
Board of Physical Therapy
PO Box 30670
Lansing MI 48909
(517) 335-0918
More PTA Info for Michigan:
Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.
Step 1. Complete a Physical Therapist Assistant Associate’s Degree Program
To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Michigan, the first step is to complete a Physical Therapist Assistant Associate’s Degree Program. This program provides the necessary education and training required to work as a PTA in the state. You can enter your zip code below to see programs near you.
You can also use these resources to research CAPTE Accredited PTA Programs:
When choosing a program, it is important to ensure that it is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and approved by the Michigan Board of Physical Therapy. Enrolling in a CAPTE-accredited school ensures that the program meets the highest standards of education and training in the field.
The PTA Associate’s Degree Program typically takes around two years to complete and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Students will learn a variety of subjects related to physical therapy, including anatomy and physiology, exercise therapy, therapeutic modalities, patient care skills, and medical terminology.
Some of the typical courses included in the program may include Introduction to Electronic Health Records, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Principles of Rehabilitation, Kinesiology, and Physical Therapy Interventions.
By successfully completing the Physical Therapist Assistant Associate’s Degree Program and meeting all the educational requirements, students will be well-prepared to pursue licensure and start their career as a licensed PTA in Michigan.
Step 2. Submit an Application for Licensure by Examination and Pass the Michigan Jurisprudence Exam
To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Michigan, the second step after completing the PTA Associate’s Degree Program is to submit an Application for Licensure by Examination and pass the Michigan Jurisprudence Exam.
To begin the process, aspiring PTAs need to obtain the licensure application form from the Michigan Board of Physical Therapy website. The application packet should include the application form, official transcripts from the PTA program, and the application fee. It is essential to carefully complete the application, providing accurate and thorough information.
Next, applicants will need to schedule and take the Michigan Jurisprudence Exam. This exam assesses the candidate’s knowledge of the laws and regulations governing physical therapy practice in Michigan. It is crucial to study and prepare for the exam using the resources provided by the Michigan Board of Physical Therapy.
Once the examination is successfully completed, applicants must arrange for their official transcripts to be sent directly from the PTA program to the Michigan Board of Physical Therapy. This ensures the verification of the educational requirements.
Finally, the completed application packet, including the application form, official transcripts, and the application fee, should be submitted to the Michigan Board of Physical Therapy. It is recommended to send the application and fee by certified mail to ensure safe delivery.
By following these steps and successfully passing the Michigan Jurisprudence Exam, applicants will be one step closer to obtaining their PTA license in Michigan.
Step 3. Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs
Once you have completed the necessary education and obtained the application packet, the next step in obtaining your PTA license in Michigan is to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs. This examination is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT).
To schedule and pay for the exam, you will need to visit the FSBPT website and follow the instructions provided. Once your payment is processed, you will receive an Authorization to Test letter from the FSBPT. This letter will provide you with the information you need to schedule your exam at a designated Prometric testing location.
The NPTE for PTAs is a comprehensive exam that evaluates your knowledge and skills in the field of physical therapy. It covers a wide range of topics, including the clinical application of physical therapy interventions, medical terminology, and principles of patient care. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum passing score of 600 to obtain your PTA license.
It is important to thoroughly prepare for the exam by studying the content areas outlined in the FSBPT’s Candidate Handbook. There are also various study resources available, such as review courses and practice exams, that can help you feel more confident and prepared on exam day.
Passing the NPTE for PTAs is a significant milestone on your journey to becoming a licensed PTA in Michigan. Successfully completing this exam demonstrates your competency and readiness to provide quality care to patients. Good luck on your exam!
Step 4. Begin your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Michigan
Once you have obtained your PTA license in Michigan, you will have a variety of employment options available to start your career. Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) play a crucial role in assisting physical therapists in providing rehabilitation services to patients.
Hospitals are one of the main employment options for PTAs in Michigan. You can find opportunities in both large medical centers and smaller community hospitals. University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers is a well-known facility in Michigan that often offers employment opportunities for PTAs.
Another option is home health agencies, which provide in-home rehabilitation services to patients. This allows PTAs to work directly with patients in a more comfortable and familiar environment.
Sports medicine clinics are also a popular choice for PTAs. These clinics specialize in treating athletic injuries and helping athletes recover and regain strength and mobility.
Nursing homes and long-term care facilities are other employment options where PTAs can provide rehabilitation services to elderly individuals and individuals with chronic conditions.
Some examples of facilities in Michigan that have previously offered jobs for PTAs include McLaren Health Care, St. Joseph Mercy Health System, and Henry Ford Health System.
Overall, there are ample opportunities for PTAs to begin their career in Michigan, with employment options available in hospitals, home health agencies, sports medicine clinics, and nursing homes.
Step 5. Renew your Physical Therapist Assistant License Every Two Years
Renewing your Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) license in Michigan is an essential step to maintain your licensure and continue practicing as a PTA. The renewal process ensures that you remain up-to-date with current standards and regulations in the field of physical therapy.
In Michigan, PTA licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal period begins on the first day of the month of your birthdate and ends two years later. For example, if your birthdate is in June, your license would need to be renewed by the end of June two years later.
Renewal can be done either electronically or by mail. The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) provides an online platform where license holders can conveniently renew their licenses. Alternatively, you may request a paper renewal form by contacting the Michigan Board of Physical Therapy.
To renew your PTA license in Michigan, there are minimum requirements that must be met. These requirements include completing continuing education credits to demonstrate ongoing professional development. It is important to note that if you hold licenses in multiple states, you should check each state’s specific requirements for renewal.
By renewing your PTA license every two years, you ensure that you maintain your professional standing and continue to provide high-quality care to your patients. Stay informed about the renewal process and fulfill all the necessary requirements to keep your Michigan PTA license active.
Why Be a PTA in Michigan?
Michigan has many PTA Programs available, which is better than many other states. However, there are also many jobs, and salaries are good ranging from $50,923 to $61,788 annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in Michigan by clicking the links below.
More PTA Info for Michigan:
