AlabamaPTA License Requirements

Accepted Programs

• •Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Physical Therapist Assistant
• •Associate of Science (AS) in Physical Therapist Assistant

PTAs must graduate from a CAPTE-accredited physical therapist assistant program, typically an associate's degree. Programs include coursework in anatomy, kinesiology, and clinical rotations.

National Physical Therapy Exam for PTAs (NPTE-PTA)

Format: Computer-based, multiple-choice

Jurisprudence Exam

Alabama Jurisprudence Assessment Module (AL JAM) required effective 10/07/2024. Administered by FSBPT. Must score 80% or higher to pass.

Fee: $48

Supervision Details

PTAs in Alabama must practice under general supervision of a licensed PT. The supervising PT must be accessible for consultation but need not be on-site.

PTAs must work under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT). Supervision types vary by state and may include direct, general, or on-site requirements. PT-to-PTA ratios determine how many PTAs a single PT can supervise.

Additional Requirements

• •Fingerprint-based federal and state criminal background check (effective June 14, 2024) via Fieldprint code FPABPTLicensees
• •Pass Alabama Jurisprudence Assessment Module (AL JAM) with 80% score (effective October 7, 2024)
• •Official transcript from CAPTE-approved program
• •Government photo ID
• •Proof of legal presence in the United States

Most states require PTAs to pass the NPTE-PTA, complete a background check, and meet state-specific requirements such as jurisprudence exams, CPR certification, and fingerprinting.

CE Topics

Regulatory Board

PTA licenses must be renewed on schedule. Most states require continuing education hours covering topics such as patient care, ethics, and state-specific physical therapy practice standards.

Additional Requirements for Transfer

• •State application and fee ($100)
• •Pass Alabama Jurisprudence Assessment Module (AL JAM)
• •Fingerprint-based criminal background check
• •NPTE-PTA score verification
• •10 CE hours within 12 months for endorsement applicants (unless recent graduate)

The Physical Therapy Compact (PT Compact) allows PTAs to practice across member states with a compact privilege. Non-compact states may still accept out-of-state credentials through endorsement or reciprocity agreements.