Ace the DC PT Law Challenge 2026 – Master the Jurisprudence Adventure!

When a first-time applicant for practice fails the licensing boards, they cannot continue to practice. This rule is in place to ensure that all practicing physical therapists meet the established standards of knowledge and skill necessary for safe and effective patient care.

Allowing individuals who have not passed the exam to practice could pose significant risks to patients, as these applicants may not have demonstrated the requisite competency in essential areas. Furthermore, maintaining a high standard of practice protects the integrity of the profession and ensures public trust.

Options suggesting conditional or supervised practice do not align with these standards, as they imply that an individual who has not yet proven capable of meeting the exam’s requirements would still engage in patient care, which is not permitted. The option allowing practice only if they retake the exam embodies the principle that competency must be established before one can provide care, reinforcing the necessity of passing the boards first.