Physical Therapist Assistant License (PTA) in North Dakota
This guide provides a detailed pathway to becoming a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in North Dakota, detailing every step from meeting prerequisites to securing your first job. The journey involves 1200 hours of training split equally between classroom learning and clinical experience, passing a competency exam, and obtaining state certification. The process can take anywhere from 6 months to over a year, depending on the mode of study, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $10,000.
Photo by Babak Eshaghian on Unsplash
In North Dakota, the career of a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) presents substantial opportunities due to a robust job outlook and competitive salary prospects. The median salary for PTAs in the state stands at $58,520 per year, reflecting a stable income source in the healthcare sector. Nationally, there are 111,500 PTAs, with an expected growth of 22.0% by 2034, indicating a strong future demand for professionals in this field. This growth is driven by an aging population requiring increased healthcare services, making it a reliable career choice for those interested in a dynamic and fulfilling healthcare role.
North Dakota offers a unique environment for PTAs due to specific state regulations and a distinctive healthcare landscape. Licensing for PTAs in this state is managed through the North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy, ensuring that all practitioners meet the necessary professional standards. Major healthcare providers in the region, such as Sanford Health and Essentia Health, are significant employers for PTAs and contribute to job stability and availability. Additionally, the state's rural expanses mean that PTAs have the chance to serve diverse communities, including underrepresented rural populations, possibly facing different challenges compared to urban areas.
This guide will provide detailed insights on how to obtain a Physical Therapist Assistant License in North Dakota, outlining the necessary steps from educational requirements to passing the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs. Readers will gain a clear understanding of the salary expectations and the overall job market in North Dakota for PTAs. By detailing the licensing process, including prerequisites and application procedures, this guide aims to equip prospective PTAs with the knowledge needed to successfully enter this rewarding profession.
Licensing Authority
ND Physical Therapy Board
In North Dakota, Physical Therapist Assistants must be licensed by the ND Physical Therapy Board. This includes completing an accredited education program, passing required exams, and fulfilling a background check.
Official Resources
North Dakota Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Associate's degree in Physical Therapy Assistant program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Total Training Hours
- 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 (NPTAE) for PTAs
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- Approximately $400
How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant License in North Dakota
tuition $4000-$9000, exam fee $300, background check $50, application fee $150, textbooks/supplies $200, scrubs $300
Fastest Path
6 months
Typical Timeline
12 months
Estimated Cost
$5000–$10000
Verify You Meet North Dakota's Prerequisites
Confirm that you meet the prerequisites for becoming a PTA in North Dakota. You'll need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy website to download the necessary forms and check the specific requirements. Processing times for verifying prerequisites typically take 1-2 days.
Tip
Keep digital copies of all documents as you'll need them for future steps.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Obtain a background check and complete the required health screenings. North Dakota requires an FBI fingerprint and state police background check. Visit your local police station for fingerprinting services, which can be scheduled online. Health screenings typically include a TB test and may require proof of vaccinations. Results from background checks can take up to 4 weeks to process.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved PTA training program in North Dakota. These programs meet specific state educational standards and are mandatory for licensure. Visit the North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy's official website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program will result in ineligibility to sit for the licensing exam, thus wasting time and resources.
Tip
Contact multiple programs to compare costs, schedules, and pass rates of graduates on the licensure exam.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Enroll in your chosen accredited program and complete 1200 hours of training, divided equally between 600 classroom hours and 600 clinical hours. Ensure consistent attendance and completion of all course requirements. Training durations vary but typically span 6 to 12 months depending on whether you are attending full-time or part-time.
Tip
Maintain a log of your hours in both classroom and clinical settings to ensure all requirements are met.
Prepare for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs
Prepare for the NPTE-PTA, administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). This exam tests your knowledge and skills as a PTA. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, with a time limit of 4 hours. A passing score is typically 600 out of 800. Register for the exam through the FSBPT website and utilize study guides and practice exams available online.
Tip
Regularly take timed practice exams to simulate test conditions.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Once your training is complete and you're prepared, register for the NPTE-PTA through the FSBPT website. Select a testing date and location that suits you. The FSBPT offers several testing windows throughout the year. Ensure that your application for the exam is complete and submitted before the deadline for your preferred testing window.
Tip
Check for the closest testing location to minimize travel on the exam day.
Take and Pass the Exam
Attend the scheduled exam session, bringing required identification and arriving early to allow for check-in procedures. The NPTE-PTA consists of 200 questions to be completed in 4 hours. Results are typically available within a few weeks. If you do not pass, you can register for the next available testing window, but be aware of the limit on the number of attempts allowed.
Tip
Ensure a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early to the testing center.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the NPTE-PTA, apply for your PTA license through the North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy. Submit all required documentation, including proof of education, exam results, and any additional forms required by the state. The processing time can take up to 6 weeks. Once approved, your license will be issued, and your name will be added to the state registry of certified PTAs.
Tip
Double-check your application for completeness to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is approved and your license is issued, you will receive your PTA certification by mail. Verify your name and license details on the North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy's online registry. This verification is crucial as employers will check this registry before hiring. Typically, your certification appears online within 1-2 weeks after issuance.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry to confirm the status of your certification.
Find Your First Job
With your license confirmed, start your job search. Utilize online job boards, networking events, and contacts from your training program. Consider roles in hospitals, private clinics, and rehabilitation centers. Be prepared to negotiate salary based on the average for North Dakota PTAs, which is typically around $56,000 annually. Update your resume to highlight your newly acquired license and practical experience.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each application to highlight relevant experience and skills.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training Programs
Some employers in North Dakota offer sponsored training programs for aspiring PTAs. These programs are often paid and provide both the required educational and clinical training. This path can be cost-effective as it often comes with a job guarantee post-certification.
Best for: Individuals looking for a cost-effective path with job security
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a non-approved training program is a significant mistake. It leads to the inability to sit for the state exam, resulting in lost time and funds. Always verify the program's accreditation status on the North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy website before enrolling.
What to Expect on Exam Day
National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs administered by Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) administered by 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 and 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; it is entirely a written examination.
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification with signatures (one government-issued with photograph)
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter (ATT)
- ✓ Simple analog watch
- ✓ Layered clothing for adjustable comfort
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Electronic devices (phones, calculators)
- ✗ Personal items (bags, purses)
- ✗ 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. There are no breaks scheduled.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available within 2-10 business days through the FSBPT website. Candidates will receive an email notification when scores are available.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam after a 60-day waiting period. The cost for a retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is a limit of three attempts per 12-month period.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, focusing on key terms that might change the meaning of the question.
- 2. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down the options.
- 3. Manage your time effectively, aiming to answer each question within 1-2 minutes.
- 4. Mark questions you are unsure about for review if time permits, but ensure an answer is selected in case time runs out.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previously attended high school or relevant educational institution · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Official transcripts may be required; check with your institution for delivery options.
Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residency
U.S. Passport, Birth Certificate, or other government-issued ID · Free if already obtained, costs vary for new documents · Immediate to several weeks
Ensure documents are current and valid.
Criminal Background Check
Local police department or authorized online service · $15-$50 · 1-2 weeks
Some programs require a specific service for background checks.
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the educational institution · Free to $20 · 1-3 days
Needed for various external applications and potential scholarships.
CPR Certification
Red Cross, American Heart Association, or similar organizations · $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Ensure the certification is accepted by the North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy.
Health Records (Immunizations, TB Test)
Personal physician or health clinic · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Typically includes MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and recent TB test results.
3For the Exam
National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs Application
Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) website · Exam fee of $485
Register for the exam after completing educational requirements.
Authorization to Test (ATT) Letter
Received from FSBPT after application approval · Included in exam fee
Required to schedule the exam at a Prometric testing center.
4For Certification
Application for Licensure
North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy website · Application fee of $100
Must be submitted after passing the NPTE.
Official NPTE Score Report
Automatically sent by FSBPT to the North Dakota Board · Included in exam fee
Ensure scores are sent directly to the state board.
Proof of Continuing Education (if applicable)
Certificates from approved continuing education courses · Varies by course
Required for renewal of license, not initial licensure.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your name on the North Dakota Board of Physical Therapy registry. Obtain your physical license certificate from the board's office or request it by mail.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • North Dakota Job Service
- • American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) job board
- • Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor specific to North Dakota
- • Local hospital and clinic websites' career sections
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals: Offer structured environments with potential for varied caseloads.
- • Outpatient clinics: Typically provide opportunities for specialization in areas like sports medicine or pediatric care.
- • Nursing homes: Focus on geriatric care, often with stable weekday schedules.
- • Home health agencies: Require travel within the community, flexible schedules.
Resume Tip: Highlight clinical rotations and specific skills learned, any relevant volunteer work, and soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss clinical experience, patient scenarios you have handled, and how you manage time and prioritize tasks.
Expected First-Year Salary
In North Dakota, a new Physical Therapist Assistant can expect a salary range from $40,000 to $50,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Specialized certifications (e.g., Orthopedic, Neurological, Pediatric)
Completion of APTA accredited courses and passing relevant specialty exams
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adapting to diverse patient needs and conditions.
- • Managing time effectively between patient appointments and documentation.
- • Navigating the dynamics of a multidisciplinary team.
Physical Therapist Assistant License Salary in North Dakota
In North Dakota, Physical Therapist Assistants earn a median salary of $58,520 per year, which is below the national median. This suggests a regional variance in pay scales for this profession.
Entry Level
$42,110
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$58,520
$28.13/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$75,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$64,080 national · -8.7% in North Dakota
Salary by Metro Area
Highest in state
Slightly below state median
Salary by Employer Type
The salaries in North Dakota are generally aligned with the state's lower cost of living, making it a feasible option for those in the profession.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans. Some employers may offer continuing education funding.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth is expected to track closely with national trends for healthcare professionals, influenced by demand and regional healthcare developments.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications
- •Research typical salaries for similar roles in your area
Job Market in North Dakota
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) job market in North Dakota is expected to grow, reflecting national trends, yet at potentially varying rates due to local demographic changes and healthcare needs. Nationally, employment in this field is projected to increase by 22.0% from 2024 to 2034. In North Dakota, demand is influenced by an aging population requiring more physical therapy services and rural healthcare delivery challenges.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest city with multiple healthcare facilities
State capital with growing healthcare needs
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Spring and early summer, when hiring cycles typically peak
Opportunities
- Expansion in telehealth services
- Specialization in areas with high elderly populations
Challenges
- Recruitment in rural areas
- Retention of qualified staff amid national competition
Training Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota offers several Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored initiatives. These programs are designed to prepare students for the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs and to meet state licensing requirements.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $10,000 - $15,000 | In-person |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 - 24 months | $12,000 - $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Wahpeton, North Dakota
High pass rate and affordable tuition for state residents
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats combining online theoretical courses with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Confirm the program's accreditation status to ensure eligibility for licensure exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Physical Therapist Assistant License program info for North Dakota
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
North Dakota offers reciprocity for PTAs who are licensed in other states, provided they meet ND standards and have passed the NPTAE.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current valid license from another state
- Proof of passing the NPTAE
State Agreements
All states as long as the original state's requirements meet or exceed ND's standards
Additional Exams
No additional exams required if NPTAE was passed
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement along with verification of licensure from the current state
Fees
$150
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all educational transcripts and proof of exam scores are sent directly from the institution or testing service to the ND Physical Therapy Board.
Check the board's website regularly for updates on licensure requirements and renewal procedures.
Recommended Resources
PTA Exam Prep
This guide includes comprehensive practice questions and detailed answer explanations to help users prepare for the PTA licensure exam.
NPTE-PTA Practice Questions & Exam Review
Offers a variety of practice questions that mirror those on the actual North Dakota PTA exam, aiding in self-assessment and preparation.
Scorebuilders PTA Complete Study Guide
Provides an extensive review of all topics covered on the PTA exam, including key concepts and therapeutic techniques.
Physical Therapist Assistant Exam Review Guide
Covers fundamental aspects of physical therapy, anatomy, and kinesiology, designed to assist candidates in mastering exam content.
Goniometer
Essential for measuring joint angles in patients, crucial for assessments and documenting patient progress.
Treatment Table
Used for patient evaluations and therapy sessions, providing a stable and comfortable surface for various treatments.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- North Dakota Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12