§ 13-302. Qualifications of applicants -- Generally

   (a) In general. --

   (1) To qualify for a physical therapy license, an applicant shall be an individual who meets the requirements of:

      (i) This section; and

      (ii) § 13-303 of this subtitle.

   (2) To qualify for a physical therapist assistant license, an applicant shall be an individual who meets the requirements of:

      (i) This section; and

      (ii) § 13-304 of this subtitle.

(b) Moral character. -- The applicant shall be of good moral character.

(c) Examinations. -- Except as otherwise provided in this title, the applicant shall pass the appropriate examination given by the Board under this subtitle.

(d) Additional requirements. -- The applicant shall meet any other qualifications or requirements that the Board establishes for license applicants.

(e) English language competency. --

   (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Board shall require as part of its examination or licensing procedures that an applicant for a license to practice physical therapy or limited physical therapy demonstrate written and oral competency in the English language.

   (2) An applicant is exempt from English language competency testing under paragraph (1) of this subsection if the applicant graduated from a physical therapy program that was taught in English.

   (3) By regulation, the Board shall develop a procedure for testing individuals who because of their speech impairment are unable to complete satisfactorily a Board approved standardized test of oral competency.

   (4) If any disciplinary charges or action that involves a problem with the oral communication of the English language are brought against a licensee under this title, the Board shall require the licensee to take and pass a Board approved standardized test of oral competency.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 43, § 608, 610; 1981, ch. 8, § 2; 1985, 2nd Sp. Sess., ch. 2; 1988, ch. 645, § 2; 1990, ch. 6, § 11; 1998, chs. 767, 768.