Definitions, scope of practice, and licensure requirements
What this domain tests
This section asks you to separate the licensed roles, state the legal boundaries of physical therapy, and follow New Hampshire's licensure pathway. The exam favors precise role language over general descriptions of therapy.
Core rules and concepts
- Physical therapy includes examination, evaluation, diagnosis of movement dysfunction, establishment of a plan of care, intervention, and discharge. It does not include surgery, prescribing drugs, or chiropractic adjustment.
- A physical therapist assistant (PTA) is licensed to implement selected interventions under PT supervision. The PTA does not perform the initial evaluation, establish the diagnosis or plan of care, or discharge the patient.
- Licensure requires graduation from a CAPTE-accredited program, passing the NPTE, passing the New Hampshire jurisprudence examination, and submitting the Board application and fees. The Board may require other documentation, such as criminal history or verification of prior licenses.
- Use of the titles physical therapist and physical therapist assistant, and practice of physical therapy, require a current New Hampshire license. Unlicensed practice is prohibited.
Worked example
An applicant passes the NPTE and moves to New Hampshire. A colleague says the national exam is enough to begin treating. The applicant may not practice until the New Hampshire license is issued. Passing the NPTE satisfies one requirement, but the jurisprudence examination, application review, and license issuance remain. Treating before licensure exposes the applicant to unlicensed-practice findings.
Traps that cost marks
Do not treat the NPTE as a state license. Do not let a PTA perform the initial evaluation or discharge. Do not describe physical therapy as unlimited medical practice; the scope is movement-related and excludes medical diagnosis and treatment outside the Act.
Exam focus
Know the role boundaries first, then the licensure steps. When a question asks who may do something, identify whether the task is evaluative, interventional, or non-skilled.