How long can an applicant who did not pass the NPTE maintain their temporary PTA permit?

An applicant who does not pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) can maintain their temporary PTA permit for a duration of six months. This regulation is put in place to provide a structured timeframe that allows applicants to prepare for and retake the exam while still being able to work and gain experience in a clinical setting as a temporary PTA. After the six-month period, if the applicant has not successfully passed the NPTE, they would no longer be permitted to practice under the temporary permit, reinforcing the importance of passing the exam for continued professional practice. This limited time frame helps ensure that applicants remain current in their knowledge and skills, while also adhering to the standards set forth by the Florida Department of Health.