Florida § 486.135 - False representation of licensure, or willful misrepresentation or fraudulent representation to obtain license, unlawful.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 486.135 — False representation of licensure, or willful misrepresentation or fraudulent representation to obtain license, unlawful., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 486.135. False representation of licensure, or willful misrepresentation or fraudulent representation to obtain license, unlawful.
(1)(a) It is unlawful for any person who is not licensed under this chapter as a physical therapist, or whose license has been suspended or revoked, to use in connection with her or his name or place of business the words “physical therapist,” “physiotherapist,” “physical therapy,” “physiotherapy,” “registered physical therapist,” or “licensed physical therapist”; the letters “P.T.”; or any other words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying that she or he is a physical therapist or to represent herself or himself as a physical therapist in any other way, orally, in writing, in print, or by sign, directly or by implication, unless physical therapy services are provided or supplied by a physical therapist licensed in accordance with this chapter. (b) It is unlawful for a person who is not licensed under this chapter as a physical therapist and who does not hold a doctoral degree in physical therapy to use the letters “D.P.T.” in connection with his or her name or place of business. (c) It is unlawful for any person who is not licensed under this chapter as a physical therapist assistant, or whose license has been suspended or revoked, to use in connection with her or his name the words “physical therapist assistant,” the letters “P.T.A.,” or any other words, letters, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying that she or he is a physical therapist assistant or to represent herself or himself as a physical therapist assistant in any other way, orally, in writing, in print, or by sign, directly or by implication. (2) An unlawful act under this section is a violation of s. 486.151. (3) It is unlawful for any person to obtain or attempt to obtain a license under this chapter by any willful misrepresentation or any fraudulent representation.
Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 486.135
What does Florida Statutes § 486.135 cover?
Section 486.135 ("False representation of licensure, or willful misrepresentation or fraudulent representation to obtain license, unlawful.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Florida § 486.135?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 486.135" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Florida law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.
How does Florida § 486.135 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.