Virginia § 54.1-3481 - Unlawful designation as physical therapist or physical therapist assistant; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 54.1-3481 — Unlawful designation as physical therapist or physical therapist assistant; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 54.1-3481. Unlawful designation as physical therapist or physical therapist assistant; penalty
A. It is unlawful for any person who is not licensed under this chapter, or whose license has been suspended or revoked or who licensure has lapsed and has not been renewed, to use in conjunction with his name the letters or words "D.P.T.," "Doctor of Physical Therapy," "R.P.T.," "Registered Physical Therapist," "L.P.T.," "Licensed Physical Therapist," "P.T.," "Physical Therapist," "Physio-therapist," "P.T.A.," "Physical Therapist Assistant," "Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant," or to otherwise by letters, words, representations or insignias assert or imply that he is a licensed physical therapist. The title to designate a licensed physical therapist shall be "P.T." The title to designate a physical therapist assistant shall show such fact plainly on its face.
B. No person shall advertise services using the words "physical therapy" or "physiotherapy" unless those services are provided by a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant licensed pursuant to this chapter.
C. A complaint or report of a possible violation of this section by any person who is licensed, certified, registered, or permitted, or who holds a multistate licensure privilege issued by any of the health regulatory boards within the Department of Health Professions shall be referred to the applicable board within the Department for disciplinary action.
D. Nothing in this section shall be construed to restrict or limit the legally authorized scope of practice of any profession licensed, certified, registered, permitted, or recognized under a multistate licensure privilege issued by any of the health regulatory boards within the Department of Health Professions prior to January 1, 2010.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 54.1-3481
What does Code of Virginia § 54.1-3481 cover?
Section 54.1-3481 ("Unlawful designation as physical therapist or physical therapist assistant; penalty") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. 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 Virginia § 54.1-3481?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 54.1-3481" (Virginia). 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 Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 54.1-3481 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia 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 Virginia.