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APTA Specialist Certification - Governed by ABPTS

APTA Specialist Certification - Governed by ABPTS

ABPTS is a Proud Member of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence.

Why Specialist Certification

As a board-certified specialist, you’ll be among more than 30,000 PTs who have achieved certification since the first credentials were awarded in 1985 — and you’ll empower your professional growth.

  • Dive deep into what moves you. Earning specialist certification is all about pursuing the facets of physical therapy that you love most.
  • Elevate your practice. Specialist certification helps patients and referral sources know that you offer a deep understanding of specific areas of care, and that you're committed to professional growth.
  • Get recognized for your commitment. Specialist certification is the profession's acknowledgment that you've achieved knowledge and skills that set you apart.
  • Help lead the profession. Engagement is the heart of leadership: ABPTS specialists are often at the forefront of developments in research and practice, and part of a community that believes in continuous improvement of patient care.
  • Not convinced yet? Hear from your peers how specialization has changed their practice and made a difference in the professional and personal lives.

From Consideration to Certification — And Beyond

Find Out if Certification Is Right for You

Review the APTA Board of Directors adopted Glossary of Terms Related to Certification and Assessment. These definitions have been developed to delineate the terms used to describe certification, related activities, and impacted individuals.

What it takes, how much it costs, and what happens after you're certified.

Explore requirements and considerations.

Apply To Be a Certified Specialist

Get started on the road to certification. Apply, check your application status, and see what's ahead.

Access the online portal to apply.

Maintain Your Certification

Review instructions and deadlines for staying certified.

Review Recertification and Maintenance Information.

Daniel Stam, PT, DPT
Daniel Stam, PT, DPT
Board-Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist

What this credential means to me is just a greater commitment toward the patients who I serve, the profession, and the students who I teach. I would encourage others to pursue specialty certification to demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to open up future career opportunities.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Cardiovascular & Pulmonary, Clinical Electrophysiology, Oncology, Women's Health, and Wound Management
Geriatrics, Neurology, Orthopaedics, Pediatrics, and Sports