Physical Therapist Assistant License (PTA) in Illinois
This guide details the steps to become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Illinois, focusing on the required 1200 total hours of training split evenly between classroom and clinical settings. The process can take from 4 months to over a year, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500, depending on the chosen educational institution and additional expenses.
Photo by Babak Eshaghian on Unsplash
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) profession in Illinois offers substantial opportunities for those interested in a career in healthcare. With a median salary of $63,200 per year and a projected growth rate of 22.0% by 2034, the field is not only lucrative but also expanding significantly faster than many other professions. This growth is driven by an aging population and an increasing demand for physical therapy services, which positions PTAs for stable and rewarding career prospects in Illinois.
Illinois presents a unique environment for PTAs due to its specific state regulations and diverse healthcare settings. The state requires licensure for all practicing PTAs, ensuring that all professionals meet consistent standards of quality and expertise. Major healthcare systems and rehabilitation centers across Illinois, including those in Chicago, Peoria, and Springfield, serve as major employers for PTAs. These factors, combined with Illinois's broad demographic and economic diversity, influence the demand and opportunities available to PTAs, offering varied experiences and potential for professional development.
This guide provides detailed information on how to become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant in Illinois. Readers will learn about the necessary educational requirements, the steps for obtaining a license, and maintaining it through continued education. Additionally, the guide outlines realistic salary expectations and insights into the job market for PTAs in Illinois, supporting individuals in making informed decisions about their career paths in this field. By understanding these elements, prospective PTAs can effectively prepare for a successful career in Illinois's healthcare system.
Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
In Illinois, to become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), candidates must complete a CAPTE-accredited program, pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs, and meet state-specific requirements. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation oversees the licensure process.
Official Resources
Illinois Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Associate degree in Physical Therapist Assistant
- Total Training Hours
- typically 1200 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 600 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 600 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of legal U.S. residency
Certification Exam
- Exam
- National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- Approximately $400
How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant License in Illinois
tuition $500-$2000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $100-$300, scrubs $50-$100
Fastest Path
4 months
Typical Timeline
8-12 months
Estimated Cost
$800–$2500
Verify Eligibility for PTA Certification in Illinois
Begin by ensuring you meet the prerequisites for becoming a PTA in Illinois. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good physical health. Visit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) website to understand specific requirements and download any necessary forms. Processing times for initial inquiries and form submissions can take up to 1-2 weeks.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Illinois requires a comprehensive background check including FBI and Illinois state police fingerprint checks. Schedule an appointment with an approved LiveScan service provider found on the IDFPR website. You also need to pass a health screening, which includes a TB test and proof of immunizations. Results and clearance can take up to 4 weeks. Disqualifying criminal records might require applying for a waiver, which can extend the timeline.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting and TB test on the same day to streamline the process.
Select an Approved PTA Training Program
Research and choose a state-approved PTA training program. The Illinois Board of Higher Education maintains a list of accredited programs that meet the necessary 600 classroom and 600 clinical hours. Attending a non-approved program will render you ineligible for certification. Visit the Board's website to verify the program's accreditation status before enrolling.
Tip
Contact program administrators directly to ask about class schedules, costs, and financial aid options.
Enroll and Complete PTA Training
Once you've selected an approved program, complete the enrollment process and dedicate yourself to completing both the 600 classroom hours and 600 clinical hours required. The program will cover essential aspects of physical therapy, including anatomy, pathology, and patient management. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate from the educational institution.
Tip
Maintain a consistent study schedule to balance both classroom learning and clinical practice.
Prepare for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs
After completing your training, prepare for the NPTE for PTAs, administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering academic and clinical knowledge, with a time limit of 4 hours. Study materials and practice exams are available on the FSBPT website. A passing score is required to proceed with licensure.
Tip
Utilize the FSBPT's practice exams to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types.
Register and Schedule Your NPTE Examination
Register for the NPTE through the FSBPT website. After registration, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter, which allows you to schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center. Check available dates and locations on the Prometric website and choose a time that gives you ample preparation.
Tip
Choose an exam date that allows for additional study time in case you feel unprepared as the date approaches.
Take and Pass the NPTE for PTAs
On the day of the exam, arrive at the Prometric testing center with two forms of ID and your ATT letter. The exam is computer-based and lasts 4 hours. If you fail, you can retake the exam by registering again through FSBPT, paying the fee, and scheduling a new date. You can attempt the exam up to three times in a 12-month period.
Tip
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to the testing center to allow time for check-in procedures.
Apply for Illinois PTA Licensure
After passing the NPTE, apply for your PTA license through the IDFPR. You'll need to submit proof of education, passing NPTE scores, and a completed application form available on the IDFPR website. The processing time for applications can take up to 6 weeks. Once approved, your license will be issued.
Tip
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays in the licensure process.
Verify Your License on the Illinois State Registry
Once your license is issued, verify its status on the IDFPR online registry. This public registry allows potential employers to confirm your credentials. Regularly check the website to ensure your information is accurate and up-to-date.
Tip
Regularly update your contact information on the registry to ensure you receive all communication regarding your licensure status.
Start Your PTA Career in Illinois
With your license verified, begin your job search. Utilize job search engines like Indeed, LinkedIn, and specialty healthcare job boards. Consider also networking with professionals you met during your clinical hours. Prepare your resume to highlight your education, licensure, and any relevant experience.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each job application to better align with the specific needs of potential employers.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training Programs
Some employers in Illinois offer on-the-job training programs for PTAs that may include sponsorship of education and certification costs. These programs are typically found in larger healthcare facilities and rehabilitation centers. While they provide valuable hands-on experience, they may require a work commitment after certification.
Best for: Individuals seeking to reduce educational expenses and secure immediate employment post-certification
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Illinois Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs administered by Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) through Prometric
Written Test
Questions: 200
Time Limit: 4 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Scaled score of 600
- • Physical Therapy Data Collection (20%)
- • Interventions (30%)
- • Diseases/Conditions that Impact Effective Treatment (28%)
- • Equipment & Devices; Therapeutic Modalities (15%)
- • Safety & Protection; Professional Responsibilities; Research (7%)
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The NPTE for PTAs does not include a practical skills test.
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification, one government-issued with photograph and signature
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter (ATT)
- ✓ Confirmation number
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items including bags, watches, phones
- ✗ Food or drink
- ✗ Study materials or notes
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test is 4 hours. No scheduled breaks.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available within 10 business days via the FSBPT website. Instant preliminary results are provided at the test center upon completion.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail, you can retake the exam after 90 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is a limit of three attempts per year.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Prioritize studying diseases and interventions as they make up a significant portion of the exam.
- 2. During the exam, use the process of elimination to narrow down choices in multiple-choice questions.
- 3. Manage time efficiently, aiming to spend no more than 1 minute per question initially. Mark complex questions and return to them later if time allows.
- 4. Read each question carefully to avoid missing key details that could indicate the correct answer.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previous educational institutions or GED testing service · Varies · Varies, typically within a few weeks
Official sealed transcripts are required.
Proof of Immunizations
From healthcare provider · Varies · Depends on healthcare provider, usually within 1-2 weeks
Includes MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tdap.
TB Test Results
From healthcare provider · Varies · Usually within 48-72 hours
Must be recent, typically within the last year.
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by course availability, typically within one month
Certification must be for Healthcare Providers.
Criminal Background Check
Illinois State Police or approved vendor · Approximately $50 · Typically 1-2 weeks
Required by most training programs for enrollment.
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the educational institution · No cost · Immediate to a few days
Needed to confirm enrollment in a CAPTE-accredited program.
Clinical Rotation Documentation
From the educational institution · No cost · Varies, upon completion of each rotation
Documented by the program, detailing hours and skills acquired.
Liability Insurance Proof
Insurance provider · Varies
Required for participation in clinical rotations.
3For the Exam
Exam Application
Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) · Approximately $485
Includes registration for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs.
Authorization to Test (ATT)
FSBPT after application approval · Included in exam application fee
Required to schedule the exam date.
Photo Identification
Government-issued ID (e.g., driver's license, passport) · Varies
Needed for identity verification on the day of the exam.
4For Certification
NPTE Score Report
FSBPT · Included in exam fee
Automatically sent to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) upon passing the exam.
Application for Licensure
IDFPR · Approximately $100
Must be submitted after passing the NPTE.
Official Transcripts
From the educational institution · Varies, typically $5-$25
Sealed transcripts showing completion of a CAPTE-accredited program.
Proof of Age and Lawful Presence
Birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued document · Varies
Needed to verify eligibility for licensure.
Social Security Number
Social Security card · No cost for the card
Required for licensure application.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Immediately after passing your PTA exam in Illinois, verify your name on the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website to ensure your license is active. Next, order a physical copy of your license for your records and potential employer verification.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Illinois Physical Therapy Association job board
- • Indeed.com with filters set to Illinois locations
- • LinkedIn, focusing on Illinois-based healthcare facilities
- • Glassdoor, with searches tailored to physical therapy assistants in Illinois
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals offer stable jobs with structured advancement but may require shifts including nights and weekends.
- • Outpatient clinics typically provide regular weekday hours but might offer lower starting salaries.
- • Rehabilitation centers can offer diverse patient care experiences and opportunities for specialization.
- • Home health agencies may provide higher pay per visit but require more travel within the community.
Resume Tip: Highlight clinical rotations and specific skills acquired during training. Include soft skills like communication and teamwork, and any relevant volunteer work. Tailor your resume to match job descriptions by using similar keywords.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss specific patient cases from clinical rotations, your approach to patient care, and how you handle feedback and stressful situations. Expect to answer why you chose the PTA profession and how you stay updated with industry practices.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Illinois, entry-level PTAs can expect to earn between $45,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on the employer and location.
Career Advancement Path
Specialized certifications such as in orthopedics or geriatrics
Certification courses offered through professional associations or continuing education providers
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adjusting to the physical demands of the job, including standing for long periods and assisting with patient mobility.
- • Managing time effectively when handling multiple patients.
- • Navigating the documentation requirements and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Physical Therapist Assistant License Salary in Illinois
In Illinois, Physical Therapist Assistants earn a median annual salary of $63,200, slightly below the national median. The hourly wage stands at approximately $30.38.
Entry Level
$42,110
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$63,200
$30.38/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$88,830
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$64,080 national · -1.4% in Illinois
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of PTAs in Illinois
Slightly below state median
Lower due to smaller urban population
Salary by Employer Type
The salary in Illinois generally aligns with the state's cost of living, which varies widely between urban and rural areas.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for PTAs in Illinois is expected to be steady, driven by aging populations and increased demand for physical therapy services.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in specific Illinois metro areas for leverage.
- •Highlight specialized skills or certifications to justify higher pay.
Job Market in Illinois
In Illinois, the job market for Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) aligns closely with the robust national growth projections. With a national employment growth rate of 22.0% expected between 2024 and 2034, Illinois mirrors this trend due to an aging population and increased focus on outpatient care. The state benefits from a strong healthcare infrastructure and a growing demand for rehabilitation services.
Top Hiring Areas
Dense population with numerous healthcare facilities.
Growing healthcare sector.
State capital with steady demand in public and private sectors.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, coinciding with budget cycles in major healthcare facilities
Opportunities
- Specialization in sports rehabilitation or pediatric care
- Advancement through continued education and certifications
Challenges
- Competition with larger markets for qualified PTAs
- Adapting to rapid technological changes in physical therapy techniques
Training Programs in Illinois
Illinois offers diverse training options for aspiring Physical Therapist Assistants, including programs at community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored training.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $10,000 to $20,000 | In-person |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 to 24 months | $15,000 to $25,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Moline, Illinois
High exam pass rates and strong local hospital partnerships
East Peoria, Illinois
Comprehensive clinical rotations
Online & Hybrid Options
Some hybrid programs available, combining online coursework with mandatory in-person clinical experiences.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's CAPTE accreditation status for ensuring eligibility to sit for the licensing exam.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Physical Therapist Assistant License program info for Illinois
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$100
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Ethics, Clinical Practice
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Illinois offers reciprocity for PTAs who are licensed in other states, provided they meet Illinois's standards and have passed the NPTE.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current active license in another state
- Proof of NPTE passage
State Agreements
All states as long as the original state's requirements meet or exceed those of Illinois
Additional Exams
None
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, including verification of licensure from the current state
Fees
$200
Processing Time: 4 to 6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, especially proof of education and test scores, are submitted promptly to avoid delays.
Stay informed about continuing education requirements to ensure timely renewal.
Recommended Resources
NPTE-PTA Exam Prep
This guide offers a comprehensive set of practice questions and exams tailored to the NPTE-PTA format.
Scorebuilders PTA Complete Study Guide
Provides detailed content review and practice questions specific to the PTA exam requirements.
Physical Therapist Assistant Exam Review Guide
Covers key topics and strategies for the PTA exam, includes online access to additional resources and practice tests.
PTA Examination Review and Study Guide
This study guide includes thorough reviews of all major test topics, with practice questions after each chapter.
Therapeutic Exercise Equipment
Essential for hands-on practice of physical therapy techniques, such as resistance bands and exercise balls.
Anatomical Models
Useful for understanding complex anatomical structures and for patient education during training.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Illinois Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12