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In 1981 the APTA House of Delegates established the first board certification in the area of cardiopulmonary (now cardiovascular and pulmonary) physical therapy. The first cardiovascular and pulmonary specialist certification examination was administered in 1985. As of June 2024, ABPTS has certified 549 cardiovascular and pulmonary specialists.
Prepare for Success
Earning specialist certification is all about pursuing the facets of physical therapy that you love most. Although it requires time and dedication, the personal and professional rewards make it a worthwhile pursuit. Dive into the fundamentals of the process and equip yourself with essential knowledge before taking the first step.
Certification Process
Gain a comprehensive understanding of each stage, from the initial application to the pivotal examination. 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 as you navigate through the certification process.
Dates and Deadlines
Stay ahead of the curve by marking these essential dates and deadlines on your calendar. Keep track of key milestones for your specialty, ensuring you're well-prepared for every stage of the certification process. Help lead the profession and be part of a community that believes in continuous improvement of patient care.
Application Requirements
Review general application requirements, as well as requirements per practice specialty area.
Review RequirementsFees and Deadlines
Review application and examination fees and deadlines. Spoiler alert - APTA members save big!
Access Fee ScheduleReady?
All candidates are required to review the Examination Candidate Guide prior to submission through the online application portal.
Set . . .
The "Description of Specialty Practice" for each specialty serves as the basis for the specialist certification exams and is a valuable aid in determining your readiness for specialist certification.
Go!
Start your application, check your status with the online application portal. Please allow up to six weeks for the initial application review following online submission.
Application Resources
Examination Resources
The Role of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Specialty Council
ABPTS Specialty Councils develop minimum eligibility requirements for certification and recertification in a specialty area based on ABPTS guidelines, and when required screen applicants for eligibility to sit for exams and for recertification. Specialty Council members are responsible for developing the examination instruments in consultation with the ABPTS testing agency and approved consultants.
Access the specialty council roster.
ABPTS Approved CEUs
View courses that have been approved by this ABPTS Specialty Council in the APTA Learning Center.