1. A. An applicant for certification to provide services to patients without a referral as specified in § 54.1-3482.1 of the Code of Virginia shall hold an active, unrestricted license as a physical therapist in Virginia and shall submit evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has one of the following qualifications:

   1. 1. Completion of a transitional program in physical therapy as recognized by the board; or
   2. 2. At least three years of postlicensure, active practice with evidence of 15 contact hours of continuing education in medical screening or differential diagnosis, including passage of a postcourse examination. The required continuing education shall be offered by a provider or sponsor approved by the board as provided in 18VAC112-20-131 and may be face-to-face or online education courses.

2. B. In addition to the evidence of qualification for certification required in subsection A of this section, an applicant seeking direct access certification shall submit to the board:

   1. 1. A completed application as provided by the board;
   2. 2. Any additional documentation as may be required by the board to determine eligibility of the applicant; and
   3. 3. The application fee as specified in 18VAC112-20-27.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-2400 and 54.1-3482.1 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 25, Issue 18, eff. June 10, 2009; amended, Virginia Register Volume 32, Issue 3, eff. November 4, 2015; Volume 41, Issue 20, eff. June 18, 2025.