Where do I find the requirements for foreign trained applicants?
You can view specific requirements for foreign trained graduates at Requirements for Foreign Trained Individuals (pdf - 28kb).
What credentialing agencies have been approved by the Florida Board of Physical Therapy (Board), and how do I contact them?
The Board has approved the following two credentialing agencies.
- Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy (703) 684-8406
- International Consultants of Delaware, Inc. (215) 222-8454 ext 510
What must the credential evaluation include?
The credential evaluation must address each of the requirements outlined in Rule 64B17-3.001(5). You can view these requirements at Requirements for Credential Evaluations (pdf - 14kb).
How do I show proficiency in English?
Foreign trained applicants must show proficiency in English in one of two ways:
- Successful completion of the iBT TOEFL examination with a minimum total score of 89 as well as accompanying minimum scores in the test’s four components of: 24 in writing; 26 in speaking; 21 in reading comprehension; and 18 in listening comprehension.
- A letter from the applicant’s university stating that at the time the student received their first degree the language of instruction was English.
I received my Bachelor’s degree from a non-CAPTE approved school, but have since received a Masters degree or DPT in the United States? Must I show proof of proficiency in English?
If you received your degree from a U.S. approved entry level Masters or DPT program, you will be considered proficient in English. If you attended a specialized Masters program or a transitional DPT program, you will need to show proficiency in English as described above.
Do I need a social security number to apply for licensure?
No, you can apply for licensure and take the exam prior to getting a social security number. However, you will need the social security number prior to receiving your license.
Can I use CLEP examinations to substitute for coursework?
Yes, in some cases. You can use CLEP examinations to substitute for any of the 60 required general education credits. You cannot use CLEP examinations to substitute for any of the 75 required professional education credits.
I have received my credential evaluation and have been told I am deficient in professional education credits. What can I do?
We suggest you contact a Commission on Accreditation for Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) accredited university that has an approved physical therapy program. They may allow you to enroll and take the courses through their program. You may visit the American Physical Therapy Associations website at www.apta.org for a list of approved schools.
The Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy has launched a new service, Planned Learning and Assistance Network (P-L-A-N), which will assist foreign applicants whose educational credentials evaluation has been found to be not equivalent to the first professional degree in physical therapy in the United States, or who have not met specific requirements in a jurisdiction. Please visit their website at www.fccpt.org for more information.
Is the State of Florida currently licensing foreign educated physical therapist assistants (PTA)?
No. The approved credentialing agencies do not evaluate the credentials of physical therapist assistants.
I have been trained as a physical therapist assistant (PTA) outside the U.S. Can I be licensed in Florida?
No, you cannot be licensed at this time. None of the approved credentialing agencies evaluate PTA credentials.
Are degrees obtained in a transitional program equivalent to a professional entry-level physical therapy degree?
No. Transitional degrees will not be accepted for initial licensure.
I received my first professional degree from a non-CAPTE school, but have since received my transitional DPT degree, do I still have to complete a credential evaluation?
Yes, as the transitional DPT program is not entry level, therefore, you must submit a current credential evaluation.
I have taken the NPTE exam more than five times. Can I apply for licensure as a physical therapist assistant?
No, you are not eligible for licensure as a PT or a PTA.
I do not have a CAPTE approved degree and my credential evaluation says my education is not equivalent to what is required for physical therapists in Florida. Can I apply for licensure as a physical therapist assistant?
No. You cannot apply for a PTA license if you do not have a CAPTE approved degree or a credentials evaluation saying your education is equivalent to CAPTE approved degree.
Do I have to have a master’s degree to be eligible for licensure in Florida?
No. However, your education must be deemed equivalent to a US master’s degree by an approved credentialing agency.
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