California PT License Renewal: 30 CEU Requirements and Process Guide

This guide details the crucial steps and requirements for successfully completing your California PT License Renewal. Navigating California’s specific "Continuing Competency" rules is key for every licensed physical therapist (PT) and physical therapist assistant (PTA) to maintain an active status.

The California PT License Renewal Cycle and Key Details

California utilizes a biennial renewal cycle based on the individual licensee's birth month.

• License Term: Biennial (Two-Year Period).
• Expiration Date: The last day of your birth month every two years.
• Renewal Fee (PT & PTA): $300.
• Delinquent Fee: $150 (if not paid by the expiration date).
• Official Link: PTBC License Renewal Portal California

PT CEU Requirements in California: Continuing Competence

In California, "Continuing Education" is officially termed Continuing Competence. Licensees must complete a specific number of hours to qualify for renewal.

• License Type Biennial Requirement
• Physical Therapist (PT) 30 hours, Mandatory Coursework 2 hrs Ethics/Laws + 4 hrs Basic Life Support
• Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) 30 hours, Mandatory Coursework 2 hrs Ethics/Laws + 4 hrs Basic Life Support
• First-Time Renewal 15 hours*, Mandatory Coursework 2 hrs Ethics/Laws + 4 hrs Basic Life Support

Note: If you are renewing for the first time and submit your payment on or before your expiration date, you only need 15 hours. If you submit after the expiration date, the full 30 hours are required.

Mandatory Subject Breakdown

1. Ethics, Laws, and Regulations: 2 hours are required each cycle.
2. Basic Life Support (BLS): 4 hours are required. This must be comparable to the American Heart Association’s BLS for Healthcare Providers and must include a hands-on component.

The California PT License Renewal Process: Step-by-Step

Renewals should be completed online through the BreEZe system, California’s Department of Consumer Affairs portal.

1. Log In: Access your account on the BreEZe Online Services portal.
2. Update Info: Ensure your address of record is current. In California, you must notify the Board of an address change within 30 days.
3. Complete Disclosure Questions: Answer questions regarding criminal convictions and disciplinary actions.
4. CEU Affirmation: You will certify under penalty of perjury that you have completed the required 30 hours of continuing competence.
5. Pay Fees: Pay the $300 renewal fee via credit card.
6. Record Keeping: Do not mail your certificates to the Board. You must maintain your records for five years in case of a random audit.

Featured California PT CEU Courses: Nutritional Physical Therapy

To meet your 24 elective hours (after completing your 6 mandatory hours), consider integrating holistic care into your practice. Nutritional Physical Therapy offers courses that bridge the gap between physical rehab and metabolic health, providing a unique edge in the California market.

The Physical Therapy Board of California requires that CEU providers be approved by a recognized agency. Nutritional Physical Therapy courses are specifically formatted for California practitioners through partner-approved providers.

1. Course I: Introduction to Nutrition 3 CE Hours Online, Self-Paced
2. Course II: Nutrition Assessment & Prescription 3 CE Hours Online, Self-Paced
3. Course III: Specialized Nutrition for PTs 3 CE Hours Online, Self-Paced

Why Choose Nutrition for your California Renewal?

The APTA supports PTs providing nutritional counseling as part of a comprehensive plan of care. By completing the Nutritional Physical Therapy 3-Course Bundle, you can earn 9 of your required hours and work toward becoming a Certified Nutritional Physical Therapist (CNPT®). Total Bundle Price: $239.00 (Save over $60). Learn more now.

Remember: Renewing your California PT license requires staying ahead of your birth-month deadline and ensuring you've hit the 30-hour mark, including those specific 6 mandatory hours of Ethics and BLS. By choosing evidence-based electives like Nutritional Physical Therapy, you don't just check a box—you add a valuable tool to your clinical toolkit.

Disclaimer: We strive to provide the most current and accurate information for California PT License Renewal and Continuing Education. However, licensing boards update their rules frequently. It is essential that you verify all deadlines, fees, and documentation requirements directly with the Physical Therapy Board of California (PTBC) at www.ptbc.ca.gov before submitting your application.