Home Private Practice Services Member Roster Service Location Contact Us
NSCMLT Logo

Home

Leave of Absence and Other Status Change Requests

Status Change Requests

To initiate a leave of absence from the Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists (NSCP), you’ll need to follow a formal process to ensure your registration status is updated appropriately and that you remain in good standing.

A leave of absence is typically intended for physiotherapists who are:

  • Taking parental, medical, or personal leave
  • Pursuing full-time studies unrelated to clinical practice
  • Moving out of the province temporarily but planning to return
  • Not practicing for a specific period but wishing to maintain ties to the College
  • Retirement

Before Your Leave:

To initiate a leave of absence, submit a Leave of Absence Request by logging into the portal and selecting the "Leave of Absence Request" option under Status Changes.  Ensure that your Continuing Education (CE) hours and practice hours are up to date in the system before proceeding.

During Your Leave:

While on leave, your license will be inactive, meaning you are exempt from paying fees or meeting practice requirements during this period; however, you cannot practice physiotherapy.  Although optional, you are encouraged to complete and log Continuing Education (CE) hours during your leave to stay current in your practice. 

Returning from Leave:

When you are ready to return, submit a Reinstatement Request by logging into the portal and selecting "Reinstate License" under Status Changes. If you are returning from leave after September 15, consider the three-month registration option to reduce costs leading into the annual renewal period.

Finally, review and update your records to confirm that your CE hours and practice hours are accurate and complete.

 

FAQ

What do I need to do before submitting my leave request?

What do I need to do before submitting my leave request?

Before submitting your request, make sure your Continuing Education (CE) hours and practice hours are fully updated and accurately reflected in the system. This will ensure a smooth process when you are ready to reinstate your license.

What happens to my license while I’m on leave?

What happens to my license while I’m on leave?

Once your leave request is approved, your license will become inactive. This means you are temporarily removed from practicing physiotherapy but remain in good standing with the College.

Can I still practice physiotherapy while on leave?

Can I still practice physiotherapy while on leave?

No, you are not allowed to practice physiotherapy while your license is inactive during a leave of absence.

Will I have access to my account and records during my leave?

Will I have access to my account and records during my leave?

Yes, you will still have access to your online account to view and update your records, such as CE hours and other professional details, while on leave.

Do I need to pay licensing fees while on leave?

Do I need to pay licensing fees while on leave?

No, you are exempt from paying licensing fees while your license is inactive during a leave of absence.

Am I required to meet Continuing Education (CE) requirements during my leave?

Am I required to meet Continuing Education (CE) requirements during my leave?

Completing and logging CE hours during your leave is optional. However, staying engaged with professional development activities is encouraged to maintain and enhance your knowledge and skills.

What if I decide to extend my leave?

What if I decide to extend my leave?

If you wish to extend your leave of absence, you must email the College to notify the College. Additional documentation may be required depending on the length of your leave.

How do I reinstate my license after a leave of absence?

How do I reinstate my license after a leave of absence?

To reinstate your license, log into the portal and select the "Reinstate License" option under the Status Changes menu. Follow the steps to complete your request, including payment of the reinstatement fee.

Is there a fee to reinstate my license?

Is there a fee to reinstate my license?

Yes, reinstating your license requires payment of a reinstatement fee. The exact fee amount will be displayed during the reinstatement process in the portal. Please note that we do not provide a prorated fee structure. Fees - Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists

What is the three-month registration option ?

What is the three-month registration option ?

The three-month registration option is a cost-effective solution for members returning from leave after September 15. It allows you to register for the remainder of the calendar year at a reduced rate, minimizing costs before the annual renewal period.

How do I qualify for the three-month registration option ?

How do I qualify for the three-month registration option ?

Anyone can choose the three-month registration option, but please note that the 3-month option is non-renewable, therefore, if you are trying to renew before September 15th, it may be in your best interest to wait until the annual renewal date in order to obtain the full year registration as you will eventually need to upgrade to a full registration anyhow.

What should I do if my CE hours or practice hours are incomplete?

What should I do if my CE hours or practice hours are incomplete?

Before reinstating your license, ensure your CE hours and practice hours are complete and accurately logged in the system. If you need assistance, contact the College for guidance.

Will there be a review process for my reinstatement request?

Will there be a review process for my reinstatement request?

Yes, the College will review your reinstatement request to ensure compliance with all requirements, including updated CE hours and payment of fees.

How long does it take to process a reinstatement request?

How long does it take to process a reinstatement request?

Processing times can vary, but you should allow 5 - 10 business days for the College to review and approve your reinstatement request. Be sure to plan ahead, especially if you need your license active by a specific date. The College prioritizes these types of requests and completes them as quickly and efficiently as possible.

What if I have questions or encounter issues during the reinstatement process?

What if I have questions or encounter issues during the reinstatement process?

If you have any questions or face technical issues while submitting your reinstatement request, contact the College's support team for assistance at info@nsphysio.com.

Can I practice physiotherapy immediately after submitting my reinstatement request?

Can I practice physiotherapy immediately after submitting my reinstatement request?

No, you must wait until your reinstatement request is reviewed and approved by the College. You will be notified when your license is officially active.
 

 

Retirement

Retiring as a physiotherapist in Nova Scotia involves several steps to ensure a smooth transition from active practice to retirement.  Licensed physiotherapist’s in Nova Scotia must formally resign their registration upon retirement. Here's what you need to know:

The next step to initiate retirement is to submit a Status Change Request by logging into the portal and selecting the "Retirement" option under Status Changes. This will ensure that your license status will be changed from active to retired/inactive.

When completing the resignation form and status change request, make sure all practice hours and continuing education (CE) hours for the past year (or the current year if resigning after the annual license renewal) are provided.

Professional Liability Insurance

It's important to note that professional liability insurance is typically tied to your active practice. Upon retirement and resignation from the NSCP, you are not required to maintain this insurance. However, it's advisable to confirm any post-retirement coverage details with your insurance provider to ensure all aspects are appropriately addressed. 

Continuing Education and Practice Hours

Accurately reporting your accumulated CE hours up to the point of resignation is necessary when completing the resignation process.  Reporting your continuing education and practice hours upon retirement and resignation, is not required.

Notification to Employers and Clients

Inform your current employer and clients of your retirement plans in advance to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of care.

Record Keeping:

Physiotherapists are strongly encouraged to securely retain the original records. Beyond their obvious obligations to current and former patients, physiotherapists and/or their estates may be called upon to produce records in the event of a later legal action or regulatory complaint. The College endorses the legislation, which advises physiotherapists to retain their patient records for at least 6 years from the date of last entry or, in the case of minors, 6 years from the time the patient would have reached the age of majority, which is 19 years in Nova Scotia.

Physiotherapists do not need to obtain patient’s consent to store their records. There are companies that will securely-store confidential records and assist in releasing specific information to designated parties as directed.

Post-Retirement Engagement

If you plan to engage in any physiotherapy-related activities post-retirement, such as mentorship or consultancy, verify if any specific registration or license is required.

 

Retirement FAQ

What steps are required to change my status to retired or inactive?

What steps are required to change my status to retired or inactive?

After submitting your Resignation Form, you need to log into the NSCP portal and initiate a Status Change Request. Select the "Retirement" option under the Status Changes menu. This will ensure your license status is updated from active to retired or inactive.

What information do I need to provide when resigning my registration?

What information do I need to provide when resigning my registration?

When completing the Resignation Form and the Status Change Request, you must provide:

  • Your practice hours for the past year (or current year if resigning after the annual license renewal).
  • Your continuing education (CE) hours for the past year (or current year).

Why do I need to submit my practice hours and continuing education (CE) hours?

Why do I need to submit my practice hours and continuing education (CE) hours?

This information is required to ensure compliance with NSCP standards and to maintain accurate records for your professional practice history.

Can I resign my registration at any time during the year?

Can I resign my registration at any time during the year?

Yes, you can submit your resignation at any time. If you resign after the annual license renewal, make sure to include all relevant practice and CE hours for the current year.

What happens after I submit my resignation and status change request?

What happens after I submit my resignation and status change request?

Once your resignation and status change request have been processed, your license status will be updated to retired or inactive. You will receive confirmation of this change.

Who can I contact if I have questions about the resignation process?

Who can I contact if I have questions about the resignation process?

If you have any questions or need assistance with the resignation process, you can contact the NSCP via email at info@nsphysio.com, or by phone.

Can I return to active practice after resigning my registration?

Can I return to active practice after resigning my registration?

Yes, if you wish to return to active practice after resigning, you will need to reapply for registration and meet the current requirements, including practice hours and continuing education criteria.

Do I need to maintain professional liability insurance after resigning?

Do I need to maintain professional liability insurance after resigning?

Professional liability insurance is typically tied to your active practice. Upon retirement and resignation from the NSCP, you are no longer required to maintain this insurance. However, it is highly recommended to confirm any post-retirement coverage details with your insurance provider to ensure all aspects are appropriately addressed.

What should I do with patient records when resigning or retiring?

What should I do with patient records when resigning or retiring?

Ensure that all patient records are appropriately managed, stored, or transferred in accordance with NSCP guidelines and the Personal Health Information Act (PHIA). Proper handling of patient records is essential to maintain confidentiality and compliance with regulations.

 

Changes to Registration Requirements in 2026

Changes to Registration Requirements in 2026

In January 2026, the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) will launch a single licensure examination. The Board of the Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists supports adoption of CAPR’s single licensure examination in principle. This will create a change in the registration/licensing pathway.

Current State

Currently, applicants seeking registration as a physiotherapist in Nova Scotia must complete a two-part evaluation process:

  • Written Component:  The Physiotherapy Competency Examination administered by CAPR. - Applicants must successfully complete the written component of the Physiotherapy Competency Examination before they are eligible to apply for registration on NSCP’s Provisional Register as a resident. Physiotherapy residents registered on the Provisional Register must practice under supervision.
  • Practical Component:  Interim Competency Evaluation (ICE) process or another Canadian physiotherapy regulator’s clinical competency evaluation for full licensure.

Future State

Starting January 2026, CAPR’s single licensure examination will replace the two-exam model. At this time, NSCP will adopt the new CAPR exam (Canadian Physiotherapy Exam – CPTE) as the pathway to full registration, replacing the current two-step model. All applicants must complete the single licensure examination to be eligible for registration with NSCP.

The single licensure examination will:

  • Be offered 8 times in 2026
  • Be completed virtually over one day
  • Include a written section and an oral, scenario-based section with a single pass mark
  • Focus on critical competencies that are required to perform safely, effectively, and independently at entry to practice.

As of February 28, 2026, the interim competency evaluation (ICE) process will no longer be a pathway to full licensure. After February 28, 2026, ICE applications will no longer be accepted. Partial/incomplete applications will not be accepted. Residents must meet all eligibility requirements prior to submitting an application.

Transition Period

CAPR plans to discontinue the current written component of the Physiotherapy Competency Examination and has announced written examination dates through to the end of November 2025. CAPR’s new single licensure examination begins in January 2026. The January 2026 exam has limited seats, but subsequent exams will have unlimited availability.

The effects of the transition period will differ depending on individual situations:

For residents that were licensed prior to May 2025:

  • Residency will continue until expiry (1 year from initial registration) or 2 failed attempts at a practical competency evaluation (including any administered by a Canadian Physiotherapy regulatory body or the new CAPR exam)
  • May still complete ICE if eligible by February 28, 2026. After February 28, 2026, they must be registered and take the next available administration of the new CAPR exam.
  • May not access the ICE process if they have not met eligibility criteria by February 28, 2026, or have not submitted a complete application by February 28, 2026.

For residents licensed between May 2025 and August 2025: 

  • Residency will continue until expiry (1 year from initial registration) or 2 failed attempts at a practical competency evaluation (including any administered by a Canadian Physiotherapy regulatory body or the new CAPR exam)
  • May still complete ICE if eligible by February 28, 2026. After February 28, 2026, they must be registered and take the next available administration of the new CAPR exam.
  • May not access the ICE process if they have not met eligibility criteria by February 28, 2026, or have not submitted a complete application by February 28, 2026.

Applicants licensed on or after September 1, 2025: 

  • Must be registered for, and take, the next available new CAPR exam.
  • Supervised practice (residency) will be available for those who have successfully completed part one (written component) of the current 2 step process.
  • May not access the ICE process.

All new applicants (that do not hold a current license in a Canadian jurisdiction) applying after February 28, 2026: 

  • Must successfully complete the new CAPR exam and meet all other registration/licensing requirements for full licensure.
  • New provisional, resident licenses will no longer be available.

 Resident licenses are:

  • provisional licenses (will be conditional licenses under the RHPA)
  • maximum of 1 year
  • require enrollment in the next available exam
  • cannot have more than one failed attempt at a practical competency process or exam (any other Canadian jurisdiction, or CAPR’s new exam) – all evaluation process/exam attempts are counted. 

Notes for transition:

  • We recognize some applicants may choose to take the current written exam, to minimize delay in entering the workforce and not have access to the ICE process necessitating taking the new exam. NSCP and CAPR are factoring that into planning and will provide more information as it becomes available.

Summary Table:

Resident Group   Residency Valid Until   ICE Access   CAPR Exam Requirement   Additional Notes
                 
Licensed prior to May 2025  

- 1 year from initial registration
or,
- 2 failed attempts at a competency evaluation (including any administered by a Canadian Physiotherapy regulatory body or the new CAPR exam)

  - May complete ICE if eligible by Feb 28, 2026
- Must have submitted complete application by Feb 28, 2026		   - Must take next available new CAPR exam if not eligible for ICE after Feb 28, 2026   ICE not accessible after deadline if eligibility or application incomplete
                 
Licensed between May and August 2025   - 1 year from initial registration
or
- 2 failed attempts at a competency evaluation (including any administered by a Canadian Physiotherapy regulatory body or the new CAPR exam)		   - May complete ICE if eligible by Feb 28, 2026
- Must have submitted complete application by Feb 28, 2026		   - Must take next available new CAPR exam if not eligible for ICE after Feb 28, 2026   ICE not accessible after deadline if eligibility or application incomplete
                 
Licensed on or after September 1, 2025   - 1 year from initial registration
or
- 2 failed attempts at a competency evaluation (including any administered by a Canadian Physiotherapy regulatory body or the new CAPR exam)		   ❌ Not eligible for ICE   ✅ Must register for and take next available new CAPR exam   ICE process not available
                 
New applicants after Feb 28, 2026 (Not currently licensed in Canada)  

N/A

 		   ❌ Not eligible for ICE   ✅ Must successfully complete new CAPR exam prior to application   Provisional/ resident licenses no longer available

 

NSCP FAQ – CAPR Exam Changes

GENERAL OVERVIEW

GENERAL OVERVIEW

  • What is changing in 2026?

In January 2026, the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) will launch a single licensure examination. Beginning February 2026, NSCP will no longer use the ICE (Interim Competency Evaluation) process. The CAPR single licensure examination will become the only route to full licensure for physiotherapists in Nova Scotia.

  • Why is this change happening?

The current model was always intended as a stop gap measure until a national exam became available. The ICE process is a practice review process that imposes a significant burden on health care human resources, particularly on areas already struggling (long term care, rural facilities) and the practitioners willing and able to supervise/mentor residents and students. The ICE model is not sustainable over the long term under the current health human resources environment.

FOR STUDENTS AND NEW GRADUATES

FOR STUDENTS AND NEW GRADUATES

  • Can I still complete the ICE process?

If you begin your residency before September 1, 2025 and are able to meet all eligibility requirements (such as minimum supervised hours), you may still be able to complete the ICE process. review the ICE eligibility requirements paying close attention to minimum hours required (1200). Historically, most candidates take longer than 6 months to accumulate 1200 hours, although it is possible.

  • What if I start a residency after August 31, 2025?

You will not be eligible for the ICE process. You must write the new CAPR licensure exam for full registration.

  • Can I write the new CAPR exam before I graduate?

This question is still under review, please check back and we will have an answer posted as soon as possible.

  • If I write the PCE in August, is there a transitional period that applies to me?

The timing of your PCE exam is less important than the date your license becomes effective. It is the effective license date that determines your eligibility for transitional processes.Changes to Registration Requirements in 2026 - Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists

  • If I begin my residency in August, do I need to finish my 1200 hours by February 28, 2026, to avoid taking the new CAPR exam?

Yes. To qualify under the current ICE process, you must complete your 1200 residency hours and submit all components of the ICE application by February 28, 2026. Failure to do so will require completion of the new CAPR exam (CPTE) to become fully licensed.

  • Can I work as a resident if I pass the PCE in August but start residency after September 1st?

Yes. Applicants with an effective license date on or after September 1, 2025, cannot complete ICE requirements in time. They will be required to take the new CAPR exam (CPTE).

  • Will writing the current PCE in November allow me to complete my residency?

No. If your effective license date is after September 1, 2025. You are required to complete the new CAPR exam (CPTE) regardless of when the PCE was written.

  • What happens if the January exam is unsuccessful? Will students writing in February revert to the current PCE format?

The January exam is not a pilot. The exam process will have been tested psychometric validation requirements, not contingency planning.

FOR CURRENT REGISTRANTS & EMPLOYERS

FOR CURRENT REGISTRANTS & EMPLOYERS

  • Will the NSCP residency program continue?

The residency component will remain temporarily but will no longer lead to licensure after ICE ends. Supervised practice will still be used for conduct findings, return-to-practice, mentorship, or re-entry pathways.

  • How should employers support graduates during the transition?

    • Employers should:

    • Be aware of eligibility timelines for ICE
    • Prepare for incoming candidates who will enter practice only after completing the new exam

EXAM ATTEMPTS AND TRANSITION

EXAM ATTEMPTS AND TRANSITION

  • How many times can I take the new CAPR exam?

This question is still under review, please check back and we will have an answer posted as soon as possible.

  • What happens if the January exam is unsuccessful? Will students writing in February revert to the current PCE format?

The January exam is not a pilot. The exam process will have been tested psychometric validation requirements, not contingency planning.

  • How long will it take to receive results for the new exam? Can I continue my residency while waiting?

We do not know for sure but, CAPR anticipates results will be available in:
  • 6 weeks for the January and February sittings
  • 4 weeks for subsequent sittings
Yes, you may continue your residency while awaiting exam results.
  • If I write the PCE in September and the new exam in February, do I pay for both?

Yes. Both exams require full payment. The cost of the new CAPR exam is not finalized but will not exceed $2,815, the previous combined fee for the written and clinical CAPR exams.

  • If I pass the written portion of the current PCE in September, do I still need to complete the full new exam in February?

Yes. The new CAPR exam is a completely separate exam. Completion of any portion of the current PCE does not carry over. You must complete the entire new exam.

Residents are no longer eligible for licensure after 2 failed attempts at a competency evaluation (including any administered by a Canadian Physiotherapy regulatory body or the new CAPR exam).

TIMELINE REMINDERS

TIMELINE REMINDERS

  • August 31, 2025

Last date to begin residency and remain potentially eligible for ICE

  • February 28, 2026

Final ICE applications accepted

  • January 2026

First administration of the CAPR single licensure exam

RFP Digital Practices 2025

The Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists (NSCP) invites proposals from qualified vendors to update our database and website infrastructure by summer 2025.  NSCP is a relatively small organization operating within a virtual office environment. This project is an important aspect of our ongoing journey to modernize and enhance operational capabilities.  There are 3 distinct but integrated projects we are seeking a vendor to provide: 

  • Database update 
  • Website update 
  • Productivity tools configuration 

This project will be informed by and integrated with 2 concurrent projects: migration to the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA), and migration to the 2022 Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) dataset. With the changes required to meet the needs of an updated Act and Regulations and the new dataset requirements, we have decided to embrace the opportunity for a holistic approach to the update of our digital practices. Please download the RFP for detailed project requirements.

Welcome Mark McFarland to the BOD

July 8, 2024

NSCP is  pleased to announce Mark McFarland has been acclaimed to the recently vacated board Director position.  Mark is a Dalhousie University graduate and has 31 years experience practicing in a variety of clinical and management settings.   His primary focus has been in private practice, where he continues to provide clinical services and manage the responsibilities of owning a multidisciplinary healthcare centre. 

Mark is passionate about ensuring that the highest standards of practice are upheld stating, “I am a strong advocate for patient-centered care and ethical practice. I believe that our primary responsibility is to the patients we serve, and I am dedicated to upholding the ethical standards that ensure their well-being and trust. My goal is to work with the board to develop policies and initiatives that promote transparency, accountability, and excellence in all aspects of physiotherapy practice.”  

Please join us in welcoming Mark to the NSCP Board.

Public Consultations

 

 

NSCP keeps all feedback provided confidential.  Individuals names are not connected with specific feedback.  

 

More Articles ...

Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists
Member Log In