Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Illinois Physical Therapists – 2026 License Renewal Guide
Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Illinois Physical Therapists: Beginning with 2026 renewals, Illinois physical therapists must complete 1 hour of Cultural Competency continuing education (CE). This new requirement is part of a statewide effort to promote health equity and deliver respectful, inclusive care to all patients, regardless of their background or identity.
If you are a licensed physical therapist in Illinois, here’s what you need to know to stay compliant — and how you can complete this CE online, quickly and easily.
Illinois Requirement – Cultural Competency CE for Physical Therapists
Under 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1130.5250, all Illinois healthcare professionals who are subject to continuing education — including licensed clinical physical therapists — must complete at least one hour of Cultural Competency CE during each renewal cycle.
This requirement becomes mandatory for license renewals due in 2026 and remains a continuing requirement in all future renewal periods. Physical therapists must document this hour in their CE portfolio as part of their biennial renewal.
Meet the 2026 Cultural Competency CE Requirement Online
Renew Now CE offers a 1-hour Cultural Competency course that is fully compliant with Illinois regulations. Designed with busy professionals in mind, our course is:
- 100% online and mobile-friendly
- Self-paced with short, engaging content
- Instantly certifiable — download your certificate right after completion
- Accepted for Illinois physical therapist license renewal
Don’t wait until your deadline approaches. Complete this required CE hour today — it’s fast, affordable, and accessible on any device.
Why Cultural Competency Matters in Physical Therapy
Cultural Competency training helps physical therapists understand how cultural, social, and linguistic differences affect patient care and recovery outcomes. By completing this training, PTs can:
- Build stronger patient relationships across diverse populations
- Recognize and reduce bias in clinical practice
- Improve communication and adherence in treatment plans
- Contribute to health equity and inclusive rehabilitation care
This required training is not just about checking a box. It’s a meaningful step toward delivering care that is informed, respectful, and aligned with every patient’s unique values and needs.
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, though physical therapists should confirm acceptance with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) or their employer if needed.