The content outline lists major content areas and components of the exam.

The Specialty Councils represent the 10 areas of specialty governed by ABPTS. The Council: Conducts practice analysis research to define specialty area advanced clinical competencies. Develops minimum eligibility requirements for certification and recertification in a specialty area, based on ABPTS guidelines.

It is important that you take a few moments to review the following information and guidelines in preparation for your upcoming specialist certification examination.

All certification candidates have the option of deferring their examination to the following year. It’s simple and easy through the online application process.

Review information on how the examination is developed, constructed, and administered.

May 3, 2021/Article

Access information about upcoming and annual , regularly hosted events for certified specialists, including the APTA Certified Specialist Award Ceremony for newly certified and recertifying specialists.

Review information on how APTA's specialization program orginated.

Orthopaedics - New Eligibility Requirements for the 2026 Exam Cycle _____________________________________________________________ Approved exam candidates must be physical therapists who hold a current permanent/unrestricted license to practice physical therapy in the United States or any of its possessions

The ABPTS Board is comprised of 9 board-certified physical therapists representing the 10 different specialty areas and is the governing body for the APTA Certified Specialization Program.