Licensing and Practice Guidelines
At The American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey (APTANJ), we serve as your guide for Physical Therapy Licensure in New Jersey. APTANJ is committed to helping physical therapists (PTs), physical therapist assistants (PTAs), students, and employers understand the requirements for safe, ethical, and compliant practice in New Jersey.
Licensing and Regulation in New Jersey
Licensure and regulation of physical therapy practice in New Jersey are administered by the New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners (NJSBPTE). All PTs and PTAs practicing in New Jersey must maintain an active license and comply with all applicable statutes, regulations, and professional standards.
New Jersey Licensing Resources
The following resources should be consulted for the most current licensing requirements, regulations, and renewal information:
- New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners
- New Jersey Physical Therapy Practice Act
- New Jersey Administrative Code, Chapter 39A
- License Renewal Portal
- Continuing Education and Competency Requirements
- Jurisprudence and Professional Ethics Requirements
Because regulations may change, licensees are encouraged to verify all requirements directly with the Board before submitting applications, renewals, or reinstatement requests.
License Renewal Requirements
New Jersey physical therapists and physical therapist assistants renew their licenses on a biennial basis. Licensees must satisfy continuing education and competency requirements established by the State Board as a condition of renewal.
Current regulations require:
- Completion of 30 continuing education and competency credits during each biennial renewal period.
- Inclusion of required jurisprudence and professional ethics coursework.
- Maintenance of documentation supporting completed continuing education activities.
- Compliance with all Board renewal deadlines and reporting requirements.
Licensees should retain records of completed continuing education activities and supporting documentation in accordance with Board regulations.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
APTANJ is an approved provider of continuing education for New Jersey PTs and PTAs and offers educational programs throughout the year designed to support clinical excellence, professional growth, and regulatory compliance.
Members are encouraged to:
- Monitor their continuing education progress throughout each renewal cycle.
- Participate in APTANJ-sponsored educational events and conferences.
- Complete required jurisprudence and ethics education early in the renewal period.
- Maintain organized records of certificates and course completion documentation.
Visit the Online CE Catalog portal for upcoming courses, webinars, and continuing education opportunities.
Scope of Practice and Professional Standards
All licensees are responsible for practicing within the scope established by New Jersey law and regulation and consistent with APTA professional standards.
Key professional responsibilities include:
- Delivering patient-centered, evidence-based care.
- Maintaining professional competence.
- Adhering to ethical standards and professional conduct requirements.
- Understanding supervision requirements applicable to PTs and PTAs.
- Complying with documentation, delegation, and patient privacy requirements.
- Remaining informed about legislative and regulatory changes affecting practice.
Reporting and Compliance
Licensees should promptly notify the State Board of changes to contact information and comply with all Board requests for documentation or verification of continuing education activities.
Questions regarding licensure status, disciplinary matters, applications, reinstatement, or regulatory interpretation should be directed to the New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.
APTANJ Member Resources
APTANJ members have access to resources that support compliant and effective practice, including:
- Continuing education programs approved for New Jersey licensure requirements
- Legislative and regulatory updates
- Practice resources and professional guidance
- Advocacy initiatives impacting physical therapy practice
- Networking and leadership opportunities
- Professional development events and conferences
APTANJ remains dedicated to advancing the profession and supporting New Jersey physical therapists and physical therapist assistants throughout every stage of their careers.
Questions?
For questions regarding APTANJ educational programs, professional development opportunities, or member resources, please contact APTANJ.
For licensure-specific questions, contact the New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners directly.