Key Points

• Physical Therapy Technicians help licensed Physical Therapists by preparing treatment rooms, moving equipment, and assisting with patient care.
• North Carolina does not require a state license to work as a Physical Therapy Aide.
• Most employers prefer candidates with formal training or certification.
• For those pursuing a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) path, state licensure through the NC Board of Physical Therapy Examiners is required.
• Dreambound helps you find affordable, accessible programs in your area.

What is a Physical Therapy Technician?

A Physical Therapy Technician works closely with licensed PTs and PTAs to improve patient recovery. Unlike licensed assistants, PT techs don’t perform direct therapy but help with:

• Setting up and cleaning treatment areas
• Transporting patients
• Assisting with non-clinical therapy tasks
• Preparing equipment and supplies
• Scheduling and administrative duties

Where Do Physical Therapy Technicians Work?

Physical Therapy Technicians in North Carolina can work in:

• Hospitals and outpatient centers
• Physical therapy clinics
• Nursing homes and assisted living facilities
• Orthopedic and sports medicine offices
• Home health and rehabilitation centers

How to Become a Physical Therapy Technician in North Carolina

You don’t need a state license to become a PT Tech in North Carolina. Here’s how to get started:

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Be able to lift patients and equipment as needed
• Possess strong communication and time management skills

2. Enroll in a Training Program (Highly Recommended)

Although not required by law, many employers prefer techs with formal training. Training programs usually last 3 to 6 months and cover:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Medical terminology
• Equipment handling
• HIPAA and patient confidentiality
• Infection control and rehab safety

To compare physical therapy technician programs near you, use Dreambound, the largest platform for finding and enrolling in vocational training.

3. Get Certified (Optional but Valuable)

Certification is optional for PT Techs in NC, but can give you a hiring edge. Options include:

• Certified Physical Therapy Technician (CPTT) – offered by AMCA
• Physical Therapy Aide Certification – offered by NHA

Employers may also require CPR certification and proof of immunization depending on the setting.

Becoming a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in NC

If you want to move from tech to licensed assistant, North Carolina has strict requirements. You must:

• Complete a CAPTE-accredited PTA program
• Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE)
• Submit an application with fees and documentation to the NC Board
• Undergo an FBI Criminal Background Check

The initial PTA application is active for 12 months. All documents must be submitted before expiration, or your file will be destroyed.

You can view the full fee schedule here. As of 2025:

• Application Fee: $150
• Annual Renewal: $120
• Revival Fee (if license lapses): $150

Renewal and Compact Privilege

PTAs must renew their license annually. If you're licensed in another state that is part of the PT Compact, you can apply for Compact Privilege to practice in North Carolina without applying for a new license.

You must also complete NC Jurisprudence Exercise 1 within 30 days of obtaining Compact Privilege. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. Learn more about NC PT Compact Privilege requirements.

License Revival Rules (PTA Only)

• Lapsed <1 year: Submit renewal form and fees
• Lapsed 1–5 years: Submit form, pay fees, complete 20–30 hours of continuing education
• Lapsed >5 years: Must re-take the PTA exam and complete 500+ hours of practice or coursework

Details available on the Revival Application page.

Military, Foreign-Trained, and Out-of-State Applicants

• Military-trained applicants may be eligible for application fee waivers. Details on the Military Info page
• Foreign-trained applicants must follow NCPT Board regulations including TOEFL scores and credential verification. View full foreign-trained rules