✔️ Page updated: August 20th, 2023
This page has all of the information laid out in steps, including application forms, and fees to become a physical therapist assistant in New York and get licensed.
Using the title “Physical Therapist Assistant” in New York requires a state licensure that is regulated by the Office of the Professions within the NYS Education Department.
New York PTA License Application
For detailed information and instructions to become a PTA in New York, 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.
In order to become a certified Physical Therapist Assistant in New York State you must:
- be a minimum of 18 years old
- have good moral character
- graduate from an accredited PTA program and meet all education and NPTE requirements
- file an application for certification and pay the application fee ($103 application fee)
Steps to Obtain a New York PTA License
- Contact your PTA program’s registrar and request that they forward a completed Certification of Professional Education (Form 2) which shows that you have completed all of your degree requirements.
Mail Form 2 To:
NYS Education Department
Office of the Professions
Division of Professional Licensing Services
Physical Therapy Unit
89 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12234-1000
- File an application (form 1) for your PTA license and pay the $103 application fee
Mail Form 1 and Payment To:
NYS Education Department
Office of the Professions
Division of Professional Licensing Services
PO Box 22063
Albany, New York 12201
- Apply to take the NPTE exam administered by the FSBPT
- Complete and pass the NPTE exam
TESTING ACCOMMODATIONS: If you have testing disabilities and require special testing accommodations then see the Frequently Asked Questions page for New York PTA applicants.
More PTA Info for New York:
Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.
Steps to Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant in New York
Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in New York involves several important steps. Here is a concise overview of the process:
1. Education: The first step is to complete an Associate’s Degree in Physical Therapist Assisting from an accredited program. This degree program provides the necessary knowledge and skills required for the profession.
2. Licensure Application: After completing the degree, you must submit an application for PTA licensure to the New York State Education Department. This application includes providing transcripts, proof of clinical experience, and completing a background check.
3. National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE-PTA): Once your licensure application is approved, you will be eligible to take the NPTE-PTA. This exam measures your knowledge and understanding of physical therapy principles and practices.
4. Start Your Career: After passing the NPTE-PTA, you can begin your career as a licensed PTA in New York. You will work under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, assisting patients in their therapy sessions and helping with therapeutic interventions.
Next, we will cover each step in more detail needed to become a physical therapist assistant in New York including earning an Associate’s Degree, submitting a licensure application, and passing the NPTE-PTA.
Step 1. Earn a Physical Therapist Assistant Associate’s Degree
To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in New York, the first step is to earn an Associate’s Degree in Physical Therapist Assistant. This degree is typically obtained through a two-year program offered by colleges and universities. 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 New York State Education Department. The accreditation and approval ensure that the program meets the necessary standards for quality education and prepares students for the PTA licensure process.
In New York, there are thirteen cities where CAPTE-accredited PTA schools are located. These cities include Albany, Batavia, Brooklyn, Buffalo, Canandaigua, Jamestown, Liverpool, New York City, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Syracuse, Vestal, and Watertown.
Admission into PTA programs can be selective, and meeting certain requirements can increase your chances of acceptance. Good grades in science and math courses, as well as completion of clinical observation hours, are often valued by PTA programs.
Obtaining an Associate’s Degree in Physical Therapist Assistant is the first step towards pursuing a rewarding career in the field. It provides the necessary knowledge and skills to assist physical therapists in providing rehabilitative services to patients.
Step 2. Submit an Application for PTA Licensure in New York by Examination
To submit an Application for PTA Licensure in New York by Examination, follow these steps:
1. Obtain Form 1: Start by downloading and completing Form 1, the Application for Licensure, from the New York State Education Department website. This form requires personal information, education history, and details about any previous licensure or disciplinary actions.
2. Pay the Licensing Fee: Along with your application, you will need to include the licensing fee. As of 2021, the fee for PTA licensure in New York is $127. You can pay this fee using a credit card or money order payable to the NYS Education Department.
3. Complete Form 2: Contact your program’s Registrar’s Office to request Form 2, Certification of Professional Education. This form verifies your completion of an approved PTA program. The Registrar’s Office will complete and send this form directly to the New York State Education Department on your behalf.
4. Submit the Application: Once you have completed Form 1 and obtained Form 2, submit both forms along with the licensing fee to the address specified on the application. Make sure to include any additional required documentation, such as official transcripts from your PTA program.
5. Wait for Processing: After submission, the New York State Education Department will review your application and documentation. The processing time may vary, but you can check the status of your application online through the Office of the Professions website.
By following these steps and submitting the required forms and fees, you can begin the process of obtaining your PTA license in New York.
Step 3. Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs
The next step in obtaining your PTA license in New York 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) and is designed to assess the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level practice as a physical therapist assistant.
To begin the process, you must first gain approval from the New York State Education Department. Once your application for licensure has been reviewed and approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter. This letter will contain important information about scheduling your exam.
To schedule your NPTE, you will need to visit the Prometric website, which is the official testing partner of the FSBPT. Prometric offers multiple testing locations throughout New York where you can take the exam. You will be able to select a date and time that is convenient for you.
The NPTE for PTAs is a computer-based exam consisting of multiple-choice questions. The content of the exam includes topics such as patient care, treatment interventions, physical therapy equipment, and assessment techniques. It is important to thoroughly study and prepare for the exam using resources such as review books and practice exams.
Scoring for the NPTE is based on a scaled score ranging from 200 to 800, with a passing score of 600. Once you have taken the exam, you will receive your score report within approximately four weeks.
Passing the NPTE is a crucial step in obtaining your PTA license in New York. By following these instructions and dedicating time and effort to studying, you can increase your chances of success on the exam and move closer to achieving your goal of becoming a licensed physical therapist assistant.
Step 4. Get your Career Started as a Physical Therapist Assistant in New York
After obtaining your PTA license in New York, the next step is to begin your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant. The job market for PTAs in New York is promising, with a growing demand for healthcare professionals in the state. There are various employment options available for PTAs, including hospitals, private clinics, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.
When working as a PTA in New York, it is important to adhere to certain guidelines and regulations. One such requirement is wearing an identification (ID) badge while on duty. The ID badge helps patients and other healthcare professionals identify you as a licensed PTA, ensuring trust and professionalism in your practice.
The governing body responsible for regulating and licensing Physical Therapist Assistants in New York is the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions. They oversee the licensing requirements and ensure that PTAs meet the educational and ethical standards necessary for practicing in the state. It is important to stay updated with any changes or updates regarding licensing requirements and renewals through the Office of the Professions.
By following the necessary guidelines and regulations, you can confidently embark on your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in New York, contributing to the health and well-being of patients in need.
Step 5. Re-register your Physical Therapist Assistant License Every Three Years
Re-registering your Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) license in New York is a crucial step to ensure the continuity of your practice. This process needs to be completed every three years before the expiration date to avoid any disruptions in your career.
The New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions requires PTAs to fulfill certain continuing education (CE) requirements before re-registering their license. These CE requirements involve completing a specific number of hours of approved coursework or training programs. These programs are designed to enhance and update your skills, knowledge, and understanding of the latest advancements in the field of physical therapy.
To re-register your PTA license, you need to submit a renewal application to the Office of the Professions. This application serves as a confirmation that you meet the necessary CE requirements for license renewal. It is essential to accurately fill out and submit the renewal application before the expiration date to ensure a smooth and timely re-registration process.
Along with the renewal application, a renewal fee must be paid to complete the process. The fee covers the administrative costs associated with license renewal.
Re-registering your PTA license every three years is essential to maintain your licensure status and continue practicing as a trusted healthcare professional in New York. By staying up-to-date with the renewal process and adhering to the CE requirements, you can ensure that your skills and knowledge are current, providing the best possible care to your patients.
Why Be a PTA in New York?
- The average PTA salary in New York is above theaverage PTA salary in the U.S.
- There are plenty of great PTA schools in New York if you still need to finish your associates degree
More PTA Info for New York:
