To practice physical therapy in Alberta and use the title physical therapist/physiotherapist you must be registered with and have a valid license from the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta. The College regulates the practice of physical therapy in Alberta and sets registration and entry to practice requirements, essential competencies, standards of practice and professional conduct (e.g., code of ethics, position statements, and approved business arrangements).  

Registration and license information

Registered physical therapists receive a license called a practice permit. Permits for physical therapists on the active register must be renewed annually.

There are three registration categories for practicing physical therapists:

   1. Active register – for those who meet all registration requirements.

   2. Temporary register – allows for supervised practice after passing PCE written  

       component while waiting to complete PCE clinical component.   

   3. Courtesy register – for physical therapists requiring episodic entry to Alberta for an

       approved purpose (e.g., traveling with a sport team).

Registration requirements and processes vary. Choose the link that best describes your current situation.

   • Currently licensed as a physical therapist in Canada   

   • NOT currently licensed as a physical therapist in Canada