Career roadmap
How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a physical therapist assistant, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a physical therapist assistant: (1) complete prerequisites, (2) graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program, (3) pass the NPTE for PTAs, (4) get licensed, (5) build expertise. Most people need about 2 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a physical therapist assistant
Complete prerequisites
Biology, anatomy and physiology are typical requirements.
Graduate from a CAPTE-accredited PTA program
Two-year programs include clinical rotations.
Pass the NPTE for PTAs
The national licensing exam from the FSBPT.
Get licensed
Apply in the state where you plan to work.
Build expertise
Specialize in orthopedics, pediatrics, geriatrics or neurology, or become a clinic lead.
Education and training requirements
PTAs need an associate degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Programs usually take about two years, including clinical rotations, followed by the NPTE for PTAs.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2 years |
Certifications and licenses
- State PTA license or certification: Required in every state.
- National Physical Therapy Examination for PTAs: The national exam administered by the FSBPT.
- CPR/BLS: Required by most employers.
- APTA Advanced Proficiency Pathways: Recognition for advanced skills in areas such as orthopedics or geriatrics.
Skills to build now
Start with therapeutic exercise, gait and transfer training, and modalities application, and practice encouragement and motivation and patience. Learning the physical therapist assistant vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- PTA Student or Rehab Aide: Learn treatment basics and clinical skills.
- Physical Therapist Assistant: Treat patients in clinics, hospitals or home health.
- Senior PTA or Clinical Instructor: Specialize, mentor students and lead treatment teams.
- Rehab Director or Physical Therapist: Manage rehab programs or go back to school for a DPT.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Physical Therapist Assistant training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a PTA?
About two years for an accredited associate degree, plus the national exam.
How long does it take to become a physical therapist assistant?
Most people need about 2 years of training. PTAs need an associate degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Programs usually take about two years, including clinical rotations, followed by the NPTE for PTAs.
Do you need a degree to be a physical therapist assistant?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for physical therapist assistants?
Common credentials include State PTA license or certification, National Physical Therapy Examination for PTAs, CPR/BLS, and APTA Advanced Proficiency Pathways. All states require PTAs to be licensed or certified, usually by graduating from a CAPTE-accredited program and passing the NPTE for PTAs. States also set supervision rules for PTAs.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 31-2021 (Physical therapist assistants).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Physical therapist assistants (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.