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This question is about physical therapist assistant.
How do I become a PTA?
To become a PTA, you must graduate from a physical therapy assistant accredited program and pass a state-administered national exam to obtain licensure. Since physical therapist assistants (PTAs) work closely with patients (e.g., exercising), PTAs must have adequate training before they begin working.
PTAs must have a minimum of an associate's degree from an accredited physical therapy program. These programs, of which there are about 300 in the country, include around 75% didactic coursework and 25% clinical work in hospitals or clinics. The total length of a PTA program is typically two years or five semesters.
All states require that physical therapist assistants become licensed. Obtaining this licensure usually requires completing an accredited physical therapist assistant program and passing the certifying board exam offered through the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.
Some states might additionally insist that practicing physical therapist assistants undergo other hurdles, including a criminal background check and other state-specific exams. Some PTAs travel to different states to meet with patients, which can further complicate things.
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