How many continuing education hours are required during a reporting period?

Physical Therapists: A PT licensed in Connecticut is required to complete twenty (20) hours during the one (1) year period for which the license is being renewed.

New Licensees: A licensee who is applying for license renewal for the first time is exempt from continuing education requirements.

Physical Therapy Assistants: A PTA licensed in Connecticut is required to complete twenty (20) hours during the one (1) year period for which the license is being renewed.

How long is the reporting period?

One (1) year.

Due Date

On renewal.

How is contact hour defined?

N/A

Can CE credits be carried over into the next reporting period?

Continuing education hours completed in one registration period shall not be allowed to carry-over to a subsequent registration period.

Are there any specific courses that must be taken?

N/A

What types of activities can be used for the continuing education requirements?

Continuing education shall be in areas related to the individual's practice. The law does not specifically identify qualifying continuing education course work.  Internet-based and distance learning opportunities are acceptable provided such coursework is related to the practice of physical therapy. 

Are there limitations on the types of courses that can be taken?

N/A

What type of courses or activities are not allowed?

N/A

What type of approval is needed for the courses?

The Department does not approve continuing education courses or pre-approve specific coursework for individual licensees, nor does the Department maintain a list of continuing education courses.

What are the reporting requirements?

Upon request by the department, the licensee shall submit the certificate to the department.

How long must continuing education records be retained?

Three (3) years.

Waiver

The Department may, for a licensee who has a medical disability or illness, grant a waiver of the continuing education requirements for a specific period of time or may grant the licensee an extension of time in which to fulfill the requirements.  Licensees may submit to the Department, prior to the expiration of the registration period, a notarized application for exemption/waiver at the time of license renewal.

Audit

Upon request by the department, the licensee shall submit the certificate to the department. A licensee who fails to comply with the continuing education requirements, including failure to maintain proof of course completion, shall be subject to disciplinary action.

References

Conn. Gen. Stat. § 20-73b

Connecticut Department of Public Health

Physical Therapist Continuing Education