Top 10 Physical Therapy Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for physical therapy technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Certifications also show potential employers that the technician has a commitment to their profession, as well as an understanding of best practices. By having certifications, physical therapy technicians can stand out from other candidates and demonstrate their capabilities. This can help them get hired more quickly and at higher salaries. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for career advancement and provide access to additional resources such as continuing education programs and networking events.

This article reviews the top certifications for Physical Therapy Technicians and explains how they can help to further a physical therapy technician's career.

What are Physical Therapy Technician Certifications?

Physical therapy technician certification is an official recognition of a physical therapy technician's knowledge and skills. It is awarded by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) upon successful completion of an approved educational program and passing of a certification exam. Physical therapy technicians are responsible for assisting physical therapists with patient care, including therapeutic exercises, massage, gait training, and other treatments.

Having a physical therapy technician certification can be beneficial in several ways. It demonstrates to employers that the technician has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties of a physical therapist assistant effectively. Certification also provides assurance to patients that their care will be handled by someone who is knowledgeable about the field and well-versed in providing quality care. Additionally, having a certification may provide access to higher salaries and other job opportunities, as it demonstrates that the individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in their field. Finally, earning a physical therapy technician certification can help improve professional satisfaction by providing recognition for one’s hard work and dedication to patient care.

Pro Tip: To become a certified physical therapy technician, you must complete an accredited program and pass the National Physical Therapy Exam. Additionally, it is important to stay up-to-date on continuing education requirements in order to maintain certification.

Related: What does a Physical Therapy Technician do?

Top 10 Physical Therapy Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Physical Therapy Technicians today.

1. Certified Physical Therapy Technician (CPTT)

Certified Physical Therapy Technician (CPTT) is a credential that recognizes individuals who have completed a program of study and demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality physical therapy services. The CPTT credential is awarded by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS).

To become certified as a CPTT, individuals must complete an accredited physical therapist assistant program and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). The NPTE is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). Once an individual has passed the exam, they are eligible to apply for certification from ABPTS.

The process typically takes about six months to complete. It can take longer if additional steps such as completing continuing education courses or clinical experience are required.

The cost for certification varies depending on the type of program chosen. Generally, it costs between $200 and $400 to take the NPTE exam, plus any additional fees associated with applying for certification from ABPTS.

2. Certified Rehabilitation Therapy Technician (CRTT)

A Certified Rehabilitation Therapy Technician (CRTT) is a professional who is trained to provide rehabilitation therapy services to individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. The CRTT works under the supervision of a licensed therapist and provides direct patient care in order to help individuals reach their highest level of functioning.

To become a CRTT, an individual must complete an accredited program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. Programs typically take two years to complete and may include courses such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, therapeutic modalities, patient assessment and evaluation, therapeutic exercise, assistive technology and documentation. After completing the program, individuals must pass a certification exam administered by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties in order to receive their CRTT credential.

The cost of becoming a CRTT can vary depending on the specific program chosen; however, most programs will require tuition payments as well as additional fees for books and materials. In addition, some programs may require students to purchase uniforms or other supplies related to their clinical experience.

Overall, becoming a Certified Rehabilitation Therapy Technician requires dedication and hard work but can be very rewarding for those interested in helping others reach their full potential.

3. Certified Kinesiotherapy Technician (CKT)

Certified Kinesiotherapy Technician (CKT) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have completed a rigorous training program in the field of kinesiotherapy. Kinesiotherapy is the application of therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and other modalities to improve physical function and quality of life. The CKT designation signifies that an individual has achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in this field.

The CKT certification process typically takes about 6 months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first complete a minimum of 150 hours of approved coursework in kinesiotherapy from an accredited institution or program. This coursework must include instruction in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, pathology, nutrition, exercise physiology, and therapeutic exercise. After completing the required coursework, applicants must then pass an exam administered by the National Board for Certified Kinesiotherapists (NBCKT).

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the institution or program offering the coursework. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for all necessary materials and testing fees. Additionally, some states may require additional licensing or registration fees.

Once certified as a CKT technician, individuals are able to practice kinesiotherapy in clinical settings such as hospitals and rehabilitation centers under the supervision of a licensed physician or other healthcare provider. They may also work independently providing services such as fitness instruction and personal training to clients with special needs or disabilities.

4. Certified Athletic Trainer Technician (CATT)

Certified Athletic Trainer Technician (CATT) is a certification program for those who wish to work in the athletic training field. The certification requires applicants to have at least an associate's degree in athletic training, or a related field, and must have completed a minimum of 500 hours of supervised clinical experience. CATT certification is offered through the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Certification (NATABOC).

The application process to become certified as a CATT includes submitting an application form, passing the NATABOC exam, and completing the required continuing education courses. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. After successfully completing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within four weeks.

The cost of becoming certified as a CATT varies depending on the state you are applying from and whether you are already a member of NATABOC. Typically, it costs between $200-$500 to apply for CATT certification. This fee covers the cost of taking the exam and any associated fees with applying for certification.

5. National Physical Therapist Assistant Certification (NPTAE)

The National Physical Therapist Assistant Certification (NPTAE) is a credentialing program that certifies physical therapist assistants (PTAs) in the United States. It is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). The NPTAE is designed to ensure that PTAs have met the minimum educational and clinical requirements necessary to practice as a PTA in any state.

To become certified, applicants must first complete an accredited physical therapist assistant program and pass the NPTAE exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, pharmacology, and medical terminology.

It typically takes two to three months to prepare for the exam depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying. To help prepare for the exam, applicants can purchase review materials from FSBPT or use online resources such as practice tests and study guides.

The cost of the NPTAE exam varies by state but generally ranges from $400-$500. This fee includes registration for the exam and all associated costs such as testing center fees and proctoring services. Applicants may also be required to pay additional fees for review materials or other services related to preparing for the exam.

Once applicants pass the NPTAE exam they are eligible to apply for licensure in their state of residence. Licensure requirements vary by state so it is important to check with your local board of physical therapy before applying for licensure.

6. Certified Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy Technician (COMPTT)

Certified Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy Technician (COMPTT) is a certification program for physical therapy technicians that specializes in orthopedic manual physical therapy. This certification is designed to provide physical therapy technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively treat patients with orthopedic conditions. The COMPTT program is offered by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

The COMPTT certification requires completion of a two-year accredited program in physical therapy or an equivalent combination of education and experience. After completing the program, applicants must pass an examination administered by the APTA to receive their certification. The exam covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, orthopedic assessment, and therapeutic interventions.

The cost of obtaining the COMPTT certification varies depending on where you take your courses and how long it takes you to complete them. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$4,000 depending on your location and course duration.

In addition to the cost of courses and exams, there are also other fees associated with obtaining the COMPTT certification such as application fees and annual renewal fees. Once certified, physical therapy technicians must renew their certification every two years in order to maintain their status as a Certified Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy Technician (COMPTT).

7. National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)

The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is a non-profit organization that provides certification to occupational therapists who meet the standards of practice set by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). NBCOT certification is a voluntary process that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of occupational therapy. It is designed to ensure that all certified occupational therapists are competent and have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe, effective, and ethical care.

It typically takes about six months to become certified through NBCOT. The first step is to complete an accredited master’s degree program in occupational therapy or other related field. After completing the educational requirements, applicants must pass a national exam administered by NBCOT. Once they pass this exam, they will receive their certification from NBCOT.

The cost of obtaining certification through NBCOT varies depending on the type of application submitted. For example, if applying for initial certification, there is a $500 fee; however, if applying for recertification or reinstatement, there may be additional fees associated with those applications as well. Additionally, there may be fees associated with taking the national exam or any other required courses or exams prior to applying for certification.

Overall, obtaining certification through NBCOT can be beneficial for individuals looking to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in occupational therapy. It also helps employers identify qualified candidates when hiring new staff members or promoting existing employees within their organization.

8. American Physical Therapy Association's Clinical Specialist Certification in Orthopedics (APTA-CSO)

The American Physical Therapy Association's Clinical Specialist Certification in Orthopedics (APTA-CSO) is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize physical therapists who have achieved advanced clinical knowledge and experience in orthopedic physical therapy. The APTA-CSO certification demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of patient care, professional development, and evidence-based practice.

To become certified as an APTA-CSO, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. These include being licensed or otherwise legally authorized to practice physical therapy in your jurisdiction; having at least two years of full-time clinical experience in orthopedic physical therapy; and having completed at least 500 hours of direct patient care in orthopedic physical therapy within the past five years. You must also pass an examination that tests your knowledge and skills related to orthopedic physical therapy.

It typically takes about six months to complete the process of becoming an APTA-CSO. This includes completing the application process, studying for the exam, taking the exam, and receiving your results.

The cost for becoming certified as an APTA-CSO is $400 for members of the American Physical Therapy Association ($500 for nonmembers). This fee covers all aspects of the certification process, including application fees, study materials, and exam fees.

In addition to these costs, you may also need to pay for travel expenses if you choose to take the exam at a location other than where you live.

9. American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties' Sports Physical Therapist Certification (ABPTS-SPT)

The American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties’ Sports Physical Therapist Certification (ABPTS-SPT) is a certification that recognizes physical therapists who have achieved advanced levels of knowledge, skills, and experience in the practice of sports physical therapy. This certification is designed for those who are dedicated to providing quality care to athletes and active individuals.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the ABPTS-SPT certification. The first step is to become a licensed physical therapist in your state or country. Once you are licensed, you must then complete a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in sports physical therapy over a period of at least two years. You must also pass an examination administered by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS).

To obtain the ABPTS-SPT certification, you must submit an application form and pay a fee which varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of a group. The fee for individual applicants is currently $500 while the fee for group applicants is $400 per person. In addition to this fee, there may be additional fees associated with taking the examination such as registration fees and travel expenses.

Once your application has been approved, you will receive instructions on how to take the examination which consists of multiple choice questions and case studies related to sports physical therapy. After successfully completing the exam, you will be awarded your ABPTS-SPT certification which is valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

10. American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists' Orthopaedic Manual Therapist Certification (AAOMPT-OMT).

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT) Orthopaedic Manual Therapist Certification (AAOMPT-OMT) is a certification program for physical therapists who specialize in the practice of manual therapy. The certification is designed to provide physical therapists with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal conditions.

In order to become certified, applicants must complete an AAOMPT approved residency program or fellowship. The residency program typically takes two years to complete and includes a minimum of 1000 hours of supervised clinical practice. Once the residency is completed, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the AAOMPT. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants are awarded the AAOMPT-OMT certification.

The cost for taking the AAOMPT-OMT exam varies depending on whether you are taking it as part of an approved residency program or not. For those taking it as part of an approved residency program, there is no additional fee beyond what was paid for the residency program itself. For those taking it outside of an approved residency program, there is a $200 application fee plus a $400 examination fee.

In addition to passing the written exam, applicants must also demonstrate their competence in orthopaedic manual therapy through a series of practical examinations administered by qualified AAOMPT instructors. This process usually takes several months to complete and requires additional fees for each practical examination taken.

Once all requirements have been met and all fees have been paid, applicants will be awarded their AAOMPT-OMT certification which will remain valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

Do You Really Need a Physical Therapy Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals. Some people may choose to pursue a career as a physical therapy technician without any formal certification or training, while others may want to obtain a certificate in order to demonstrate their knowledge and skill level.

For those who are looking for a career in physical therapy, having a certificate can be beneficial. A certificate can show employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job correctly and safely. It can also help you stand out from other applicants by demonstrating that you have made an effort to learn about the field and its associated techniques. Additionally, many states require physical therapy technicians to be certified before they can practice professionally, so having a certificate may make it easier for you to get licensed.

On the other hand, there are some drawbacks to getting a physical therapy technician certificate. For one thing, it requires time and money to obtain the certification, which could be spent on other aspects of your education or career development instead. Additionally, if your goal is simply to gain basic knowledge of physical therapy techniques or become employed as an entry-level technician, then you may find that obtaining a certificate is unnecessary or even unhelpful.

In summary, whether or not you need a physical therapy technician certificate depends on your individual career goals and objectives. It is important for each person to weigh the pros and cons of obtaining such certification before making their decision.

Related: Physical Therapy Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Physical Therapy Technician Certifications

Q1: What is a Physical Therapy Technician Certification?

A1: A Physical Therapy Technician Certification is a credential that verifies an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a physical therapy technician. It typically involves passing an exam, completing a specific number of hours in continuing education courses, and demonstrating proficiency in the field.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Physical Therapy Technician?

A2: To become certified as a Physical Therapy Technician, you must complete an accredited program of study in physical therapy technology or related health science field and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).

Q3: Is certification required to work as a Physical Therapy Technician?

A3: Yes, certification is required to work as a Physical Therapy Technician in most states. The requirements for certification vary by state, so it is important to check with your state's licensing board for the specific requirements.

Q4: How long does it take to get certified as a Physical Therapy Technician?

A4: The time it takes to get certified as a Physical Therapy Technician depends on many factors such as the type of program you are enrolled in, whether you have any prior experience or education in the field, and how much time you can dedicate to studying for the NPTE exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all of the necessary requirements for certification.

Q5: Are there any continuing education requirements after getting certified?

A5: Yes, once you are certified as a Physical Therapy Technician, you must complete continuing education credits every two years in order to maintain your certification status. The exact number of credits varies by state but typically ranges from 8-24 hours per year.