Texas law now requires Texas physical therapists and physical therapist assistants licensed by the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners (TBPTE) and occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants licensed by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (TBOTE) to submit fingerprints for state and national criminal history background checks.
New License Applicants
All applicants for licenses that will be issued on or after January 1, 2019 must comply with this new fingerprinting requirement.
Prior fingerprinting for any other purpose does not satisfy this new statutory requirement because other may not share criminal history background check results with the TBPTE or TBOTE.
License Renewal
Those already licensed and applying for license renewal after January 1, 2019 must submit fingerprints prior to their license expiration date. For license renewals prior to January 1, 2019, even if the expiration date is after this date, compliance with the fingerprint requirement will be prior to the next renewal.
There is an exception carved out for licensees in inactive status. However, licensees changing from inactive or retired status to active status will need to comply with this fingerprinting requirement when reinstating their license.
Applicants for initial issuance or license renewal must satisfy this fingerprinting requirement only once. Individuals will not be required to submit fingerprints as part of the renewal of their license in the future.
Fingerprinting
You may make an appointment for live scan fingerprinting at locations throughout Texas. Details on scheduling an appointment can be found here. The cost of fingerprinting after January 1, 2018 is $38.25.
Fingerprints will be used to check criminal history records of the FBI and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Results will be sent directly to the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners from both agencies. You will not be given a copy of your fingerprinting results.
Hire an Experienced License Defense Attorney
If you have problems obtaining or renewing your license with the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, or if you’ve been notified of a complaint filed against you, BERTOLINO LLP can help.
We are experienced physical therapy and occupational therapy license defense attorneys and we know how to navigate the Board’s complaint process. We are prepared to represent you at any legal hearing or proceeding regarding your professional license. Our results speak for themselves.
BERTOLINO LLP represents licensed professionals across the entire State of Texas. If you are facing disciplinary action from a professional licensing board, contact us today or call (512) 476-5757.
Call or text (512) 476-5757 or complete a Case Evaluation form
