Licensees Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of frequently asked questions to assist licensed physical therapists (PT) and physical therapist assistants (PTA).
Physical Therapist/Physical Therapist Assistant Licensees
Notice to Consumers, CCR 1398.15, FAQs
How do I renew my PT/PTA license?
When will I receive a renewal statement for my PT/PTA license?
My license expires tomorrow. I sent in my renewal payment. When will I get my new license?
How do I change my address and/or name?
What is the fee for written license verification to another state?
Does California have a grace period to work without a California license?
What are the supervision and documentation requirements that will allow a physical therapist to supervise a physical therapist assistant, physical therapy aide, physical therapist/physical therapist assistant license applicant, and student or intern?
How do I contact the California Physical Therapy Association?
How do I contact the American Physical Therapy Association?
Physical Therapist (PT) and Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Licensees
Q. How do I renew my PT/PTA license?
A. To access information on how to renew your PT/PTA license, please visit the License Renewal section on the Physical Therapy Board of California's Web site.
Q. When will I receive a renewal statement for my PT/PTA license?
A. Renewal statements are sent out approximately 90 days prior to the expiration date of the license. Therefore, it is extremely important that you notify the Physical Therapy Board of California immediately of any change in your mailing address.
Q. My license expires tomorrow. I sent my renewal payment one week ago. When will I get my new license?
A. It is important to remember that it may take anywhere from three to six weeks to process your license renewal. This is indicated on the renewal statement, which is sent to all licensees approximately 90 days prior to the expiration date. To ensure your license is renewed prior to its expiration, it is advisable that you submit your renewal payment at least six weeks beforehand.
To check on the status of your renewal, please access the Online License Verification on the Physical Therapy Board of California's Web site. The licensee information is updated nightly, and it is the same information that is available to the Board staff.
Q. How do I change my address and/or name?
A. Address and name changes may be completed online through your Breeze account
Q. What is the fee for written license verification to another state?
A. The fee for written license verification to another state is $60. To access the instructions on how to request the Board to submit written verification of your license to another state, please click here.
Q. I am from out of state. Is there a grace period for me to work in California without a California license?
A. The law does not allow a PT or PTA who is licensed in another state to work until an application has been submitted to the Board and the person has received written notification from the Board that they have been granted applicant status.
Q. What are the supervision and documentation requirements that will allow a physical therapist to supervise a physical therapist assistant, physical therapy aide, physical therapist/physical therapist assistant license applicant, and/or student or intern?
A. It is the responsibility of the supervising PT to supervise all of the above according to the laws and regulations that have been established for each assisting personnel.
Q. How can I contact the California Physical Therapy Association (CPTA)?
A. CPTA can be contacted via their web site at www.ccapta.org, or by telephone at (916) 929-2782.
Q. How can I contact the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)?
A. APTA can be contacted via their web site at www.APTA.org, or by telephone at (800) 999-2782.
FAQ's regarding the physical therapist scope of practice can be found on the Practice Issues link.
