Exam Transition – Important Updates for Candidates  

The process to become a physiotherapist in Ontario has changed with the introduction of a new single-step licensure exam.

The new Canadian Physiotherapy Examination (CPTE) is run by Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR).

This exam replaces both the written exam and the Ontario Clinical Exam (OCE). The OCE has now been discontinued.

Canadian Physiotherapy Examination  

CAPR began administering the Canadian Physiotherapy Examination in January 2026.  

The Canadian Physiotherapy Exam: 

• Is offered eight times in 2026 

• Is conducted virtually over one day 

• Combines written and clinical components with a single pass mark 

• Evaluates critical competencies necessary for safe and effective physiotherapy practice 

The cost of the Canadian Physiotherapy Exam is $2,500. A discounted rate is available for candidates who passed the Physiotherapy Competency Examination – Written Component in 2025. From February through December 2026, the discounted fee is $1,800.

What if I Attempted the Ontario Clinical Exam and was Unsuccessful? 

The Ontario Clinical Exam has been discontinued. If you took the OCE and were unsuccessful, you can apply to take the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators’ new Canadian Physiotherapy Examination. This exam will be offered at a discounted rate of $1,800 in 2026 for candidates who have already passed the written exam.