✔️ 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 Montana and get licensed.
All PTA licensing in Montana is regulated by the Montana Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.
Below are the requirements to become a licensed PTA in Montana.
PTA License Requirement | Required in Montana? |
|---|---|
| Complete Accredited PTA Program | Yes |
| Send Official Transcripts Directly from School to State PT Board | Yes |
| Complete PTA License Application | Yes |
| Mail passport style photo to State PT Board | Yes |
| Pay non-refundable application fee | Yes, $100 payable to the Montana Board of Physical Therapy Examiners |
| Complete Jurisprudence Exam | Yes |
| Pass the National Physical Therapy Assistant Exam (NPTAE) | Yes, $370 |
Montana PTA License Application
For detailed information and instructions to become a PTA in Montana, 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.
Montana PTA Board Contact Info
PO BOX 200513
301 SOUTH PARK, 4th FLOOR
HELENA, MONTANA 59620-0513
(406) 841-2202
dlibsdptp@mt.gov
More PTA Info for Montana:
Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.
Step 1. Earn your Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Degree
To become a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Montana, the first step is to earn a PTA degree from an accredited school. There are several accredited schools in Montana that offer PTA programs. You can enter your zip code below to see programs near you.
You can also use these resources to research CAPTE Accredited PTA Programs:
Before applying to a PTA program, you must meet certain prerequisites. These typically include the completion of courses in anatomy, physiology, biology, and psychology. Each school may have specific admission requirements, so it is important to research and understand the prerequisites for the program you are interested in.
Once admitted to a PTA program, you will undergo both classroom instruction and clinical training. The program will provide you with a comprehensive knowledge of the human body, therapeutic exercise techniques, and physical therapy interventions. You will also learn about documentation, patient care, and ethical considerations in the field.
In addition to classroom instruction, you will also have to complete a certain number of clinical observation hours. These hours provide you with hands-on experience and allow you to learn from practicing physical therapists and experienced PTAs.
Clinical training locations for PTA programs can vary, but they often include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and skilled nursing facilities. These settings provide real-world experience and exposure to different patient populations.
Earning your PTA degree is the essential first step to becoming a licensed PTA in Montana. It is important to choose an accredited school and meet the prerequisite requirements to ensure a smooth path to your future career as a Physical Therapist Assistant.
Step 2. Submit your Application for Licensure by Examination and Pass the Jurisprudence Exam
Once you have successfully completed your PTA program, the next step towards becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant in Montana is to submit an application for licensure by examination.
To begin the application process, you will need to visit the website of the Montana Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. On their website, you will find the necessary forms and instructions for applying for licensure as a PTA.
The application requirements include completing the application form, submitting a $100 check or money order as the application fee, providing a recent photograph, and arranging for your official transcripts to be sent directly from your PTA program to the Montana Board.
It is important to carefully review and understand Montana’s statutes and rules regarding the practice of physical therapy. This will ensure that you are well-prepared for the jurisprudence exam and have a solid understanding of the laws and regulations that govern the profession.
The jurisprudence exam is designed to test your knowledge of Montana’s specific laws and regulations that pertain to the practice of physical therapy. It is crucial to thoroughly review the relevant statutes and rules to ensure that you are adequately prepared for the exam.
Passing the jurisprudence exam is a crucial step towards obtaining your PTA license in Montana. It demonstrates that you have a comprehensive understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of the physical therapy profession.
By submitting your application for licensure by examination and successfully passing the jurisprudence exam, you are one step closer to becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant in Montana.
Step 3. Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs
After completing your application for licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Montana, the next step is to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs. This exam is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) to test the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level PTA practice.
To schedule the NPTE-PTA, you will need to visit the FSBPT website and create an account. Once you have created your account, you can proceed with the registration process. During registration, you will need to provide your personal and educational information, as well as pay the examination fee.
Once registered, you can select a testing center and schedule your exam through Prometric, the testing agency. Prometric has various locations throughout Montana and offers a range of dates and times for you to choose from. It is recommended to schedule your exam well in advance to secure your preferred date and location.
The NPTE-PTA covers a wide range of topics that are essential for safe and competent PTA practice. These topics include patient care management, safety and protection, therapeutic interventions, equipment and devices, and professional responsibilities. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum passing score of 600.
Preparing for the exam requires thorough studying of the core concepts and principles of physical therapy practice. Utilize study resources such as textbooks, practice exams, and review courses to enhance your knowledge and increase your chances of success.
Passing the NPTE-PTA is a significant milestone in your journey towards becoming a licensed PTA in Montana. A successful outcome demonstrates your competence and readiness to provide quality care to patients as a professional PTA.
Step 4. Start your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Montana
Once you have successfully passed the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs, you are ready to begin your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Montana. With your PTA license in hand, you will have various employment opportunities available to you in different healthcare settings.
Hospitals: Many hospitals in Montana have physical therapy departments where PTAs work alongside physical therapists to provide rehabilitation services to patients. These hospitals include Advanced Care Hospital, Bridger Orthopedic, and St. Peter’s Hospital.
Outpatient Clinics: Outpatient clinics specialize in providing physical therapy services on an outpatient basis. PTAs in these settings assist in delivering treatments and therapies to patients recovering from injuries or surgeries. Examples of outpatient clinics hiring PTAs in the past include Genesis Rehabilitation Services and MTX Therapy Services.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide long-term care and rehabilitation services to elderly residents. PTAs in nursing homes support the physical therapy needs of these residents, aiding in improving their mobility and quality of life. Deer Lodge in Montana is an example of a nursing home that employs PTAs.
Independent Practice: Some PTAs choose to work in private practice settings, where they collaborate with physical therapists or operate their own clinics. These practitioners have the opportunity to serve a wide range of patients, from athletes to individuals with chronic conditions.
Starting your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Montana opens up numerous employment possibilities across hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, and independent practice settings. With the demand for PTAs continuously growing, pursuing this career in Montana can lead to a rewarding and fulfilling professional journey.
Step 5. Renew your Physical Therapist Assistant License Each Year
Renewing your Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) license in Montana is an important part of maintaining your professional status. It is necessary to renew your license each year to ensure that you can continue practicing as a PTA in the state. Here is a step-by-step guide to the license renewal process in Montana:
1. Renewal Timeline: The renewal period for PTAs in Montana begins on January 1st and ends on March 31st each year. It is essential to renew your license before the deadline to avoid any interruption in your practice.
2. Renewal Date: The renewal date for your PTA license is your birthday. This means that you will need to submit your renewal application and fees before your birthday, even if your license does not expire until a later date.
3. Late Renewal Period: If you miss the March 31st deadline, you will have the option to renew your license during the late renewal period. However, late renewals are subject to additional fees, so it is best to renew on time to avoid any extra costs.
4. Renewal Fees: The fee for renewing your PTA license in Montana is $95. If you renew during the late renewal period, an additional late fee of $50 will apply.
5. Online Renewal: The Montana Board of Physical Therapy offers an online renewal option for PTAs. This convenient method allows you to easily submit your renewal application and payment online, saving you time and resources.
6. Renewal Application Form: If you prefer to renew your license using a hard copy application form, you can download the Renewal Application Form from the Montana Board of Physical Therapy website. Complete the form, include the required fees, and mail it to the Board’s office.
By following these steps and renewing your PTA license each year, you can ensure that you remain in compliance with the Montana Board of Physical Therapy and continue practicing as a professional Physical Therapist Assistant.
Why Be a PTA in Montana?
Montana has a few PTA Programs available. PTA jobs and salaries are in demand as well ranging from $40,832 to $63,604 annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in Montana by clicking the links below.
More PTA Info for Montana:
