Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) is a regulatory body of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in United States. It is responsible for licensing of physical therapy professionals and enforces regulatory standards in physical therapy professions.
FSBPT operates with an objective to protect customers and spread public awareness. It developed “Model Practice Act for Physical Therapy” which is used by jurisdictions to maintain rules, regulations and practice standards. It has been also rendering several educational programs for its member boards.
FSBPT has developed two examinations- National Physical Therapy Examination – Physical Therapist (NPTE-PT) for licensing of physical therapists and National Physical Therapy Examination – Physical Therapist Assistant (NPTE-PTA) for licensing of physical therapist assistants. These exams are used by licensing boards of 53 jurisdictions including 50 states, District of Columbia and two territories- the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. These exams are able to successfully assess knowledge and skills required by an entry-level practitioner. These exams are designed to test whether an individual can provide safe and efficient physical therapy services or not. They also help in evaluating candidates on same standards nationwide.
NPTE tests conducted by FSBPT are developed through a systematic process called “Analysis of Practice”. This process is repeated in every five year period followed by updating of tests. “Analysis of practice” begins with identification of job requirements of entry level physical therapy practitioners and concludes with development of test specifications. Since, these tests are updated in every five years; they include questions pertaining to skills and practices of higher importance and relevance.
FSBPT is also engaged in Continuing Competence Initiative. It is involved in development of tools that can be used by physical therapy licensing boards for renewal of licenses and delineating educational requirements of continuing competence.
FSBPT only provides examination services to licensing bodies of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. It does not control or affiliate with any regulatory body.
Find more information about National Physical Therapist Examination – Physical Therapist (NPTE-PT) and National Physical Therapist Examination – Physical Therapist Assistant (NPTE-PTA).