✔️ 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 Utah and get licensed.
All PTA licensing in Utah is regulated by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.
Below are the requirements to become a licensed PTA in Utah.
PTA License Requirement | Required in Utah? |
|---|---|
| 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 with application | Yes |
| Pay non-refundable application fee? | Yes, $60 made payable to “DOPL” |
| Pass the National Physical Therapy Assistant Exam (NPTAE) | Yes, $370 |
Utah PTA License Application
For detailed information and instructions to become a PTA in Utah, 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.
Utah PTA Board Contact Info
Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
PO BOX 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741
In person or via express delivery:
Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
Heber M Wells Building, 1st Floor Lobby
160 E 300 S
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
(801) 530-6628
doplweb@utah.gov
More PTA Info for Utah:
Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.
Steps to Earning a Physical Therapist Assistant License in Utah
Earning a physical therapist assistant (PTA) license in Utah involves several steps. Here is a step-by-step process for obtaining a PTA license in Utah:
1. Graduation from a CAPTE-Accredited Program: To be eligible for a PTA license in Utah, you must graduate from a physical therapist assistant program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
2. Submit Application for Examination and Licensure: After completing your education, you need to submit an application for examination and licensure to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL). The application includes providing your personal information, education details, and paying the necessary fees.
3. Pass NPTE for PTAs: Once your application is approved, you will be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs. This exam measures your knowledge and skills required to practice as a PTA. A passing score is necessary to receive a PTA license in Utah.
4. Begin Your Career as a PTA: After passing the NPTE for PTAs, you can start your career as a licensed PTA in Utah. You can work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist in various healthcare settings, helping patients improve their physical function and mobility.
5. Renew License: Continuing competency hours are required for license renewal in Utah. PTAs must complete a minimum of 40 continuing competency hours every two years. These hours can be obtained through approved courses and activities related to physical therapy practice.
By following these steps and meeting the requirements, you can earn a physical therapist assistant license in Utah, enabling you to pursue a rewarding career as a licensed PTA.
Step 1. Graduate from a CAPTE-Accredited Physical Therapist Assistant Program
To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Utah, the first step is to graduate from a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This accreditation ensures that the program meets the necessary standards to prepare students for their future careers as PTAs. You can enter your zip code below to see programs near you.
You can also use these resources to research CAPTE Accredited PTA Programs:
During your education, you will undergo a comprehensive curriculum that combines both coursework and clinical experience. The coursework will cover a variety of topics including rehabilitative agents, pediatrics, therapeutic exercise, medical terminology, and more. This will provide you with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills necessary to assist physical therapists in their practice.
In Utah, there are several cities where CAPTE-accredited PTA programs are available. Some of these cities include Salt Lake City, Provo, Ogden, and Logan. These programs offer a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience in healthcare settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge in a practical setting.
By successfully completing a CAPTE-accredited PTA program in Utah, you will be equipped with the necessary education and training to pursue a career as a licensed PTA. This will open doors to various employment opportunities where you can assist patients in improving their physical function and mobility under the guidance of a licensed physical therapist.
In the next steps, we will explore the application process and licensure requirements to help you on your journey towards becoming a licensed PTA in Utah.
Step 2. Submit an Application for Examination and Licensure in Utah
After successfully completing a CAPTE-accredited PTA program in Utah, the next step toward becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is to submit an application for examination and licensure to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
To begin the application process, applicants must gather the required materials and fees. The application fee, payable to DOPL, is $60. Additionally, official college transcripts from the PTA program must be submitted to verify the completion of education requirements.
Applicants have several options for delivering their application materials. They can choose to submit the application in-person at the DOPL office in Salt Lake City or send it via express delivery. Another option is to mail the application using the United States Postal Service to the following address:
Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
PO Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741
It is important to note that as part of the approval process, applicants must also register with the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). This registration ensures that applicants meet the examination requirements set by the FSBPT.
By carefully following the application instructions and submitting all required materials and fees, aspiring PTAs in Utah take a significant stride toward obtaining their professional licensure. This license is essential to practice as a PTA and opens doors to a fulfilling career in the field of physical therapy.
Step 3. Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs
Once the application for licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Utah has been approved, the next step is to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). This exam is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) and is a crucial requirement for obtaining licensure.
To schedule the NPTE-PTA, applicants must create an account on the FSBPT website and follow the instructions provided. The exam is available year-round, and candidates can choose from several testing centers located throughout Utah. Prometric, a testing company, partners with the FSBPT to administer the exam at these locations.
The NPTE-PTA assesses a candidate’s knowledge across four areas: Foundations for Practice, Physical Therapy Data Collection, Intervention, and Equipment and Devices. It consists of 200 multiple-choice questions designed to evaluate clinical and practical knowledge.
Preparation resources are available to help candidates study for the NPTE-PTA. These include textbooks, online review courses, and practice exams. Utilizing these resources can enhance a candidate’s chances of success on the exam.
To pass the NPTE-PTA, candidates must achieve a scaled score of 600 or higher. The exam fee for PTAs in Utah is $485. It is important to note that this fee is separate from the application fee and is payable directly to the FSBPT.
Passing the NPTE-PTA is a crucial step toward becoming a licensed PTA in Utah. By adequately preparing for and successfully completing the exam, aspiring PTAs demonstrate their competency and readiness to practice in the field of physical therapy.
Step 4. Start your Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Utah
Once you have obtained your PTA license, you can start searching for employment opportunities. Physical therapy clinics and hospitals are common employers for PTAs in Utah.
Some of the top employers in the state include Intermountain Healthcare, University of Utah Health, MountainStar Healthcare, and Salt Lake Regional Medical Center. These organizations offer excellent opportunities for PTAs to work with experienced physical therapists and gain valuable hands-on experience.
To apply for positions at physical therapy clinics in Utah, you can visit the websites of these top employers or search for job openings on online job boards. Prepare a professional resume highlighting your education and clinical experience, and submit your application according to the instructions provided by each employer.
Starting your career as a PTA in Utah can be an exciting journey with numerous opportunities for growth and professional development. By completing the necessary education and licensure requirements and exploring employment opportunities at top healthcare organizations, you can kickstart your career as a Physical Therapist Assistant.
Step 5. Complete Continuing Competency Hours to Renew your License
In order to maintain an active and non-temporary license as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Utah, it is necessary to complete continuing competency hours. These hours are essential for staying updated with the latest advancements and best practices in the field of physical therapy.
To renew your PTA license, you must complete a minimum of 20 contact hours of Continuing Education (CE) every odd-numbered year. These CE hours should cover a variety of topics related to physical therapy and must include a minimum of three hours in law and/or ethics.
There are numerous ways to obtain the required continuing competency hours. You can attend conferences, workshops, or seminars that offer CE credits. Additionally, online courses and webinars that are approved by the Utah Licensing Board are also acceptable.
To renew your PTA license, you need to follow these steps:
1. Retrieve a renewal form from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) website.
2. Print and complete the form, providing the necessary information and attesting that you have completed the required continuing competency hours.
3. Submit the renewal form along with a $47 renewal fee to the Division of Occupational Licensing.
4. Follow the instructions provided on the form to submit your renewal application. This may include mailing it to the designated address or submitting it online if an online option is available.
By completing the continuing competency hours and properly renewing your PTA license, you ensure that you remain eligible to practice as a licensed PTA in the state of Utah. Stay updated with the latest advancements in the field and continue to provide quality care to your patients.
Why Be a PTA in Utah?
Utah has multiple PTA Programs available which is comparable to the number of PTA schools available in many states. PTA jobs and salaries are good as well ranging from 53,343 to $61,990 annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in Utah by clicking the links below.
More PTA Info for Utah:
