To work as a physical therapist aide, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal training is required beyond high school.

Work experience

Experience helping and working with people is good preparation for this career.

On-the-job training

Most physical therapist aides learn their skills on the job from experienced workers. You may spend up to one month in training. During training, you learn how to:

• care for patients;
• assist patients with exercises; and
• transfer patients safely.