Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Illinois Physical Therapist Assistants – 2026 License Renewal Guide
Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Illinois Physical Therapist Assistants: Beginning with 2026 renewals, Illinois physical therapist assistants must complete 1 hour of Cultural Competency continuing education (CE). This requirement supports the state’s goal of advancing health equity and ensuring respectful, inclusive care for patients of all backgrounds.
If you’re a licensed physical therapist assistant in Illinois, here’s what you need to know to stay compliant — and how to complete this training quickly and easily online.
Illinois Requirement – Cultural Competency CE for Physical Therapist Assistants
Under 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1130.5250, all Illinois healthcare professionals who are subject to continuing education — including physical therapist assistants — must complete at least one hour of Cultural Competency CE during each license renewal cycle.
This requirement becomes mandatory for license renewals due in 2026 and remains a permanent part of every future renewal period.
Physical therapist assistants are responsible for tracking and documenting this CE activity as part of their required continuing education portfolio.
Complete Your CE Requirement Online
Renew Now CE provides a 1-hour Cultural Competency course approved for Illinois license renewal, designed specifically for busy professionals like you.
- 100% online and mobile-friendly
- Complete at your own pace
- Instant certificate of completion
- Fulfills the 2026 Cultural Competency requirement for Illinois physical therapist assistants
Why Cultural Competency Matters in Physical Therapy
Cultural Competency CE helps physical therapist assistants develop the skills needed to:
- Understand how culture, language, and background impact patient communication and recovery expectations
- Deliver more inclusive, patient-centered care
- Recognize and address barriers to care for underserved populations
- Improve outcomes through greater cultural awareness and sensitivity
This course goes beyond compliance — it helps strengthen trust and connection between providers and patients.
Accreditation
Renew Now CE is accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education. This course meets ANCC standards and is widely accepted by physical therapy licensing boards, including the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Physical therapist assistants should confirm acceptance with the Illinois Physical Therapy Board or their employer if needed.