✔️ Page updated: August 21th, 2023
This page has all of the information laid out in steps, including application forms, and fees to become a physical therapist assistant in West Virginia and get licensed.
All PTA licensing in West Virginia is regulated by the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy.
Below are the requirements to become a licensed PTA in West Virginia.
PTA License Requirement | Required in West Virginia? |
|---|---|
| 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, license, and exam fees? | Yes, $140 + $25 + $25 = $190 total |
| Pass the National Physical Therapy Assistant Exam (NPTAE) | Yes, $370 |
West Virginia PTA License Application
For detailed information and instructions to become a PTA in West Virginia, 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.
West Virginia PTA Board Contact Info
101 Dee Drive
Charleston, West Virginia 25311
304-558-0367
wvbopt@wv.gov
More PTA Info for West Virginia:
Learn how to become a physical therapist assistant in 7 steps completing all education and licensing requirements.
Steps to Becoming a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant in West Virginia
Becoming a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in West Virginia involves several important steps. The first step is to complete an accredited PTA Associate’s Degree program. It is crucial to choose a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
After earning the degree, individuals can proceed with the application process for a PTA license through the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy (WVBPOT). This includes submitting an application form, official transcripts from the PTA program, and a registration fee. The WVBPOT carefully reviews each application to ensure all requirements are met.
Once the application is approved, the next step is to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs. This comprehensive exam assesses the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective patient care. Passing the NPTE is a requirement to obtain a PTA license in West Virginia.
With a PTA license in hand, individuals can begin their career in West Virginia. Opportunities exist in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and sports medicine clinics. PTAs work under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist and play a crucial role in providing hands-on care to patients.
Continuing education is important for PTAs to maintain their licensure in West Virginia. The WVBPOT requires PTAs to complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) during each licensing period. CEUs can be obtained through various sources, such as MedBridge Education, which offers additional education to enhance skills and stay up to date with the latest advancements in physical therapy.
By following these steps and staying committed to continuing education, individuals can embark on a fulfilling career as a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant in West Virginia.
Step 1. Earn your PTA Associate’s Degree through an Accredited Program
To become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in West Virginia, the first step is to earn an Associate’s Degree in PTA from an accredited program. You can enter your zip code below to see programs near you.
You can also use these resources to research CAPTE Accredited PTA Programs:
These accredited programs provide aspiring PTAs with the necessary knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career. The curriculum typically includes a combination of general education courses and specialized PTA coursework. Students learn about anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, therapeutic exercise, patient care techniques, and more.
The program may also include clinical internships, where students gain practical experience in a clinical environment under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. These hands-on experiences are invaluable in preparing students to provide efficient and excellent patient care.
By completing an Associate’s Degree in PTA from an accredited program in West Virginia, individuals are equipped with the necessary foundation to move forward in their journey towards becoming a licensed PTA.
Step 2. Apply for a PTA License through the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy
After completing an accredited PTA program, the next step towards becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in West Virginia is to apply for licensure through the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy. The board is responsible for regulating the practice of physical therapy in the state and ensuring that all PTAs meet the necessary standards.
To apply for a PTA license, applicants must submit a completed application along with the required fee of $190. This fee is non-refundable and covers the cost of processing the application. In addition to the application, applicants must also submit the application for the National Physical Therapy Exam.
Along with the application and fee, applicants need to provide a registrar’s letter and official transcripts from their accredited PTA program. These documents serve as proof of completion of the necessary education requirements. If the applicant requires any special accommodations during the examination, a Special Accommodations Request Form must also be submitted.
During the interim period between application and licensure, applicants have the option to apply for a temporary license for an additional fee of $20. This allows them to practice as a PTA under direct supervision while waiting for their permanent license to be processed.
By following these steps and submitting the required documents and fees, applicants can start their journey towards obtaining a PTA license in West Virginia through the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy.
Step 3. Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs
Once the application for a PTA license in West Virginia has been submitted to the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy, the next step is to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (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 of PTAs.
Candidates must register for the NPTE at least 30 days prior to their chosen exam date through the FSBPT website. The exam is offered four times per year, giving candidates the flexibility to choose a date that works best for them.
The NPTE for PTAs consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering various aspects of physical therapy practice. To pass the exam, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 600 or higher. Results are typically reported to the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy within 5 days of the exam, and candidates can expect to receive their scores within 10 days.
Preparing for the NPTE is essential to increase the chances of success. Candidates are strongly encouraged to study and review essential concepts and topics covered in the exam, such as anatomy, physiology, therapeutic modalities, patient care, and more.
By successfully passing the NPTE for PTAs, candidates demonstrate their competence and readiness to provide high-quality care to patients in West Virginia as licensed Physical Therapist Assistants.
Step 4. Start your PTA Career in West Virginia
Starting a PTA career in West Virginia provides abundant job opportunities in diverse workplace environments. PTAs can find employment in a range of settings, including hospitals, private practices, schools, and sports medicine clinics. Each of these settings offers unique challenges and opportunities for PTAs to excel in their profession.
Martinsburg, Fayetteville, and Charleston, West Virginia are cities with a high demand for PTAs. The demand for PTAs in these areas is driven by the increasing need for physical therapy services and the growing recognition of the importance of rehabilitation in overall patient care. As a result, there has been a steady job growth for PTAs in West Virginia, with new positions continuously opening up.
PTAs in West Virginia have the opportunity to work in a variety of specialties, such as acute care, sports medicine, and outpatient rehabilitation. This allows them to gain valuable experience in different areas of physical therapy and broaden their skill set.
With the thriving healthcare industry in West Virginia, PTAs can expect excellent career prospects and the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients’ lives. Whether it’s helping someone recover from surgery or assisting athletes in their rehabilitation, PTAs play a vital role in providing efficient and excellent patient care.
Starting a PTA career in West Virginia offers a wealth of job opportunities in various workplace environments. The demand for PTAs in cities like Martinsburg, Fayetteville, and Charleston is high, and the profession is experiencing steady job growth. PTAs have the chance to work in different specialties and provide hands-on care that makes a difference in patients’ lives.
Step 5. Continue your Education to Maintain Licensure
To maintain licensure as a physical therapist assistant (PTA) in West Virginia, continuing education is a requirement. PTAs in West Virginia must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years to ensure they stay updated on the latest advancements and best practices in their field.
There are various options available for PTAs to fulfill their continuing education requirements. These options include examinations, residencies, fellowships, courses, and clinical instruction. PTAs can choose activities that align with their professional goals and areas of interest.
The West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy has provided a list of approved continuing education activities. These activities include passing specialty examinations, completing certified residency or fellowship programs, and providing clinical instruction. These opportunities not only enhance the knowledge and skills of PTAs but also contribute to their professional development.
By actively participating in continuing education, PTAs can stay current with the evolving healthcare landscape and provide the best possible care to their patients. It is vital for PTAs to invest in their ongoing education to maintain their licensure and continue making a positive impact in the field of physical therapy.
Why Be a PTA in West Virginia?
PTA jobs and salaries are good as well ranging from $51,550 to $65,775+ annually. Learn more about becoming a physical therapist assistant in West Virginia by clicking the links below.
More PTA Info for West Virginia:
