California Chiropractor — Requirements & Free Practice
US-CA · License preparation
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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements
Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.
License to Practice Chiropractic
Authorizes the holder to practice chiropractic in California as taught in chiropractic schools or colleges.
Licensing authority: California Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Application information
Active license annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
- Renewal
- Renewal form, fee and Board continuing education.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-03.
Cancelled license restoration
- Alternatives
- Instead of SPEC, document each missed period of continuing education or licensed practice and continuing education in another state.
- Application
- Submit restoration application and fee.
- Spec window
- If using SPEC, pass within six months before restoration application.
Forfeited license restoration
- Alternatives
- Instead of SPEC, document each missed period of continuing education or licensed practice and continuing education in another state.
- Application
- Submit restoration application and fee.
- Spec window
- If using SPEC, pass within six months before restoration application.
Inactive license annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
- Renewal
- Renewal form and fee.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-03.
Inactive to active restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
- Restoration
- Application, fee and one renewal period of continuing education.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-03.
Initial licensure by examination
All of the following:
- Part I
- NBCE Part II
- Part III
- Part IV (assessment without a question bank)
- Physiotherapy
- California Chiropractic Law Examination (CCLE)
- Application
- Submit fee, transcripts, diploma and fingerprints.
- Education
- Board-approved chiropractic degree, 60 prechiropractic credits and minimum coursework.
- Timing
- Take California examination after graduation.
Probationary initial issuance
All of the following:
- Part I
- NBCE Part II
- Part III
- Part IV (assessment without a question bank)
- Physiotherapy
- California Chiropractic Law Examination (CCLE)
- Eligibility
- Board may issue on probation after all other requirements are met.
- Terms
- Board may impose treatment, testing or practice restrictions.
Interstate reciprocity
- Board discretion
- The Board may require additional education or examination without identifying another exam.
- Education
- Board-approved degree and the California-equivalent hours and subjects applicable when prior license issued.
- License
- Hold a current chiropractic license from a reciprocal state and show five years of chiropractic practice.
- Past examination
- Show equivalent successful examination in every subject examined in California in that year; prior exam formats are historical evidence.
- Verification
- Submit official certification and good-standing information.
Reissuance after revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
- Board decision
- Majority Board vote and fee.
- Waiting period
- At least two years after revocation or cancellation.
Military Spouse Temporary License to Practice Chiropractic
The board implemented temporary licenses for military spouses and partners in June 2023.
Licensing authority: California Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Military spouse or partner temporary licensure
- Application
- Submit affidavit and original-jurisdiction good-standing verification; meet background and discipline conditions.
- Duration
- Nonrenewable and expires at 12 months or earlier upon standard or endorsement-license decision.
- Other license
- Active unrestricted license for same scope in another US jurisdiction.
- Relationship
- Qualifying marriage or legal union with active-duty service member assigned to California.
California Chiropractic Law Examination (CCLE)
- Provider
- California Board of Chiropractic Examiners
- Format
- Computer-based
- Exam questions
- 50
Examination outline
Recordkeeping, Billing, and Reporting (31%)
- 1.1 Patient Records (18%)
- 1.2 Billing Codes and Laws (9%)
- 1.3 Mandated Reporting (4%)
- T1. Obtain oral and written informed consent from patient in accordance with laws and regulations
- T2. Document assessments and treatments in patient records in accordance with laws and regulations
- T3. Sign and date patient records in accordance with laws and regulations
- T4. Maintain patient records in accordance with laws and regulations
- T5. Maintain confidentiality of patient records in accordance with laws and regulations
- T6. Release patient records in accordance with laws and regulations
- T7. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding treating patients with occupational injuries or illnesses
- T8. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding billing, billing codes, and documentation
- T9. Report known or suspected abuse of patients by contacting relevant agency in accordance with laws and regulations
- K1. informed consent
- K2. documenting patient care
- K3. signing and dating records
- K4. patient addendums
- K5. maintaining records
- K6. HIPAA
- K7. record confidentiality
- K8. releasing records
- K9. occupational injury
- K10. accurate billing
- K11. reimbursement documentation
- K12. insurance reimbursement
- K13. mandatory abuse reporting
- K14. abuse reporting procedures
- K15. firearm and assault reporting
Office Management and Workplace Conduct (25%)
- 2.1 Administrative Aspects (14%)
- 2.2 Professional Boundaries (11%)
- T10. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding ownership and management of a chiropractic practice
- T11. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding ownership and management of chiropractic businesses and corporations
- T12. Ensure employees and other persons subject to supervision adhere to laws within practice premises
- T13. Ensure employees and other supervised persons adhere to law regarding sexual intimacy within practice premises
- T14. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding sexual contact, conduct, and relationships between chiropractor and patient
- T15. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding professional conduct
- K16. chiropractic title
- K17. specialty designations
- K18. licensee address
- K19. chiropractic corporations
- K20. ownership transfer
- K21. supervised staff conduct
- K22. unlicensed supervision
- K23. student practice
- K24. employee sexual misconduct
- K25. patient sexual contact
- K26. ethical conduct
Advertising, Discounts, and Referrals (14%)
- T16. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding advertising of chiropractic services
- T17. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding discounted fees and services
- T18. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding referral of patients
- K27. advertising
- K28. false advertising
- K29. discounted fees
- K30. free-service advertisements
- K31. referrals and rebates
- K32. self-interested referrals
Professional Practice (10%)
- T19. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding radiographic imaging
- T20. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding use of lasers for chiropractic treatment
- T21. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding chiropractic manipulation under anesthesia
- T22. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding chiropractic practice in writing a disabled parking request
- T23. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding chiropractic practice in signing a death certificate
- K33. radiographic imaging
- K34. lasers
- K35. manipulation under anesthesia
- K36. disabled parking
- K37. death certificates
Professional Responsibilities (20%)
- T24. Adhere to laws and regulations regarding display of certificate to practice
- T25. Adhere to laws that define chiropractic scope of practice
- T26. Comply with continuing education requirements to develop and maintain professional competence
- T27. Recognize actions that could result in disciplinary actions by the Board and comply with laws and regulations
- K38. display certificate
- K39. satellite certificates
- K40. treatment standards
- K41. excessive treatment
- K42. continuing education
- K43. reporting violations
- K44. license renewal and restoration
- K45. illness and competency
- K46. discipline and fines
Examination sources
- Occupational Analysis of the Chiropractor Profession
Executive summary
- Occupational Analysis of the Chiropractor Profession
Table 15
- Occupational Analysis of the Chiropractor Profession
Table 16
- BCE 2026 Sunset Review Report
Q22, 50 scored questions
- CCLE Examination Information
CCLE administration
Part I
- Provider
- Prometric
- Format
- Computer-based examination; items are presented grouped by domain with one timer for all six domains, an optional break halfway through, and forward-only navigation. The NBCE grades across all six domains and reports one Part I score; individual domains are not scored.
- Exam questions
- 255 items
- Passing score
- 375
Examination outline
General Anatomy (20%)
- Topographical Anatomy - 11% of the General Anatomy domain
- Topographical Anatomy: Planes of the body and anatomical terminology
- Topographical Anatomy: Head and neck
- Topographical Anatomy: Back and thorax
- Topographical Anatomy: Abdomen, pelvis and perineum
- Topographical Anatomy: Upper and lower limbs
- Topographical Anatomy: Integument (including histology)
- Osteology of the Appendicular Skeleton - 13% of the General Anatomy domain
- Osteology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Upper limb and shoulder girdle
- Osteology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Lower limb and pelvis
- Osteology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Development
- Osteology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Histology
- Arthrology and Syndesmology of the Appendicular Skeleton - 11% of the General Anatomy domain
- Arthrology and Syndesmology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Classification of joints
- Arthrology and Syndesmology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Articulations of the appendicular skeleton
- Arthrology and Syndesmology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Biomechanics
- Myology of the Appendicular Skeleton - 12% of the General Anatomy domain
- Myology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Upper limb and shoulder (including innervation)
- Myology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Lower limb and pelvic girdle (including innervation)
- Myology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Development
- Myology of the Appendicular Skeleton: Structure and histology
- Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems - 11% of the General Anatomy domain
- Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems: Heart
- Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems: Arteries
- Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems: Veins
- Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems: Lymphatic vessels and lymphoid tissue (including spleen and thymus)
- Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems: Development
- Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems: Histology
- Digestive System - 11% of the General Anatomy domain
- Digestive System: Oral cavity and pharynx
- Digestive System: Digestive viscera
- Digestive System: Development
- Digestive System: Histology
- Respiratory System - 11% of the General Anatomy domain
- Respiratory System: Nose and sinuses
- Respiratory System: Larynx, trachea and bronchi
- Respiratory System: Lungs, pleura and mediastinum
- Respiratory System: Development
- Respiratory System: Histology
- Urogenital System - 10% of the General Anatomy domain
- Urogenital System: Urinary organs
- Urogenital System: Male reproductive organs
- Urogenital System: Female reproductive organs
- Urogenital System: Development
- Urogenital System: Histology
- Endocrine System - 10% of the General Anatomy domain
- Endocrine System: Endocrine glands and tissues
- Endocrine System: Development
- Endocrine System: Histology
Spinal Anatomy (22%)
- Osteology of the Axial Skeleton - 18% of the Spinal Anatomy domain
- Osteology of the Axial Skeleton: Skull
- Osteology of the Axial Skeleton: Vertebral column
- Osteology of the Axial Skeleton: Ribs and sternum
- Osteology of the Axial Skeleton: Development
- Myology of the Axial Skeleton - 17% of the Spinal Anatomy domain
- Myology of the Axial Skeleton: Face and head
- Myology of the Axial Skeleton: Back and neck
- Myology of the Axial Skeleton: Thorax and abdomen
- Myology of the Axial Skeleton: Pelvis and perineum
- Myology of the Axial Skeleton: Development
- Arthrology and Syndesmology of the Axial Skeleton - 14% of the Spinal Anatomy domain
- Arthrology and Syndesmology of the Axial Skeleton: Classification of joints
- Arthrology and Syndesmology of the Axial Skeleton: Articulations of the axial skeleton
- Arthrology and Syndesmology of the Axial Skeleton: Biomechanics
- Anatomy of the Central Nervous System and Related Structures - 18% of the Spinal Anatomy domain
- Anatomy of the Central Nervous System and Related Structures: Cerebrum
- Anatomy of the Central Nervous System and Related Structures: Brainstem and cerebellum
- Anatomy of the Central Nervous System and Related Structures: Spinal cord and meninges
- Anatomy of the Central Nervous System and Related Structures: Vascular supply and relationships
- Anatomy of the Central Nervous System and Related Structures: Ventricles and cerebrospinal fluid
- Anatomy of the Central Nervous System and Related Structures: Development
- Anatomy of the Central Nervous System and Related Structures: Histology
- Anatomy of the Peripheral and Autonomic Nervous System - 19% of the Spinal Anatomy domain
- Anatomy of the Peripheral and Autonomic Nervous System: Spinal nerves, plexuses, and branches
- Anatomy of the Peripheral and Autonomic Nervous System: Cranial nerves
- Anatomy of the Peripheral and Autonomic Nervous System: Visceral innervation
- Anatomy of the Peripheral and Autonomic Nervous System: Cutaneous innervation
- Anatomy of the Peripheral and Autonomic Nervous System: Development
- Anatomy of the Peripheral and Autonomic Nervous System: Histology
- Organs of Special Senses - 14% of the Spinal Anatomy domain
- Organs of Special Senses: Vision
- Organs of Special Senses: Audition and equilibrium
- Organs of Special Senses: Olfaction
- Organs of Special Senses: Gustation
- Organs of Special Senses: Development
- Organs of Special Senses: Histology
Physiology (18%)
- Neurophysiology - 12% of the Physiology domain
- Neurophysiology: Membrane potentials, action potentials, and synaptic transmission
- Neurophysiology: Motor function
- Neurophysiology: Sensory function
- Neurophysiology: Autonomic function
- Neurophysiology: Higher cortical function
- Neurophysiology: Special senses
- Muscle Physiology - 12% of the Physiology domain
- Muscle Physiology: Cardiac muscle
- Muscle Physiology: Skeletal muscle
- Muscle Physiology: Smooth muscle
- Cardiovascular Physiology - 12% of the Physiology domain
- Cardiovascular Physiology: Cardiac pump
- Cardiovascular Physiology: Electrophysiology of the heart
- Cardiovascular Physiology: Hemodynamics
- Cardiovascular Physiology: Regulation of circulation
- Cardiovascular Physiology: Circulation in organs
- Cardiovascular Physiology: Lymphatics
- Cardiovascular Physiology: Hematology and immunity
- Respiratory Physiology - 11% of the Physiology domain
- Respiratory Physiology: Mechanics of breathing
- Respiratory Physiology: Ventilation, lung volumes and capacities
- Respiratory Physiology: Regulation of respiration
- Respiratory Physiology: O2 and CO2 transport
- Respiratory Physiology: Gas exchange
- Body Fluids and Renal Physiology - 11% of the Physiology domain
- Body Fluids and Renal Physiology: Regulation of body fluids/micturition
- Body Fluids and Renal Physiology: Glomerular filtration
- Body Fluids and Renal Physiology: Tubular exchange
- Body Fluids and Renal Physiology: Acid-base balance
- Gastrointestinal Physiology - 10% of the Physiology domain
- Gastrointestinal Physiology: Ingestion/motility
- Gastrointestinal Physiology: Digestion/secretion
- Gastrointestinal Physiology: Absorption
- Gastrointestinal Physiology: Regulation of GI function
- Reproductive Physiology - 10% of the Physiology domain
- Endocrine Physiology - 12% of the Physiology domain
- Endocrine Physiology: Secretion of hormones
- Endocrine Physiology: Action of hormones
- Endocrine Physiology: Regulation
- Exercise and Sports Physiology - 10% of the Physiology domain
Chemistry (13%)
- Carbohydrates - 13% of the Chemistry domain
- Carbohydrates: Metabolism
- Carbohydrates: Metabolism: Catabolic pathways
- Carbohydrates: Metabolism: Anabolic pathways
- Carbohydrates: Chemistry
- Carbohydrates: Chemistry: Structure
- Carbohydrates: Chemistry: Properties
- Carbohydrates: Chemistry: Function
- Carbohydrates: Nutritional concepts
- Carbohydrates: Nutritional concepts: Food sources
- Carbohydrates: Nutritional concepts: Digestion
- Lipids - 12% of the Chemistry domain
- Lipids: Metabolism
- Lipids: Metabolism: Catabolic pathways
- Lipids: Metabolism: Anabolic pathways
- Lipids: Chemistry
- Lipids: Chemistry: Structure
- Lipids: Chemistry: Properties
- Lipids: Chemistry: Function
- Lipids: Chemistry: Transport
- Lipids: Nutritional concepts
- Lipids: Nutritional concepts: Food sources
- Lipids: Nutritional concepts: Digestion
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides - 13% of the Chemistry domain
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Amino acid metabolism
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Amino acid metabolism: Catabolic pathways
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Amino acid metabolism: Anabolic pathways
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Chemistry
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Chemistry: Structure
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Chemistry: Properties
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Chemistry: Function
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Nutritional concepts
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Nutritional concepts: Food sources
- Proteins, Amino Acids and Peptides: Nutritional concepts: Digestion
- Enzymes - 12% of the Chemistry domain
- Enzymes: Classification and function
- Enzymes: Kinetics and regulation
- Hormones - 13% of the Chemistry domain
- Hormones: Metabolic effects of specific hormones
- Hormones: Metabolic effects of specific hormones: Carbohydrate metabolism
- Hormones: Metabolic effects of specific hormones: Lipid metabolism
- Hormones: Metabolic effects of specific hormones: Protein metabolism
- Hormones: General properties
- Hormones: General properties: Chemistry
- Hormones: General properties: Mechanism of action
- Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids - 12% of the Chemistry domain
- Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids: Metabolism of purines and pyrimidines
- Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids: Chemistry
- Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids: Chemistry: Structure
- Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids: Chemistry: Properties
- Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids: Chemistry: Function
- Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids: DNA, RNA and protein synthesis
- Vitamins and Minerals - 13% of the Chemistry domain
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chemistry
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chemistry: Structure
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chemistry: Properties
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chemistry: Function
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chemistry: Coenzyme precursors
- Vitamins and Minerals: Nutritional concepts
- Vitamins and Minerals: Nutritional concepts: Food sources
- Vitamins and Minerals: Nutritional concepts: Absorption and metabolism
- Vitamins and Minerals: Nutritional concepts: Storage
- Biochemical Energetics - 12% of the Chemistry domain
- Biochemical Energetics: Basic Concepts
- Biochemical Energetics: Basic Concepts: High-energy phosphate compounds
- Biochemical Energetics: Basic Concepts: Oxidation-reduction reactions
- Biochemical Energetics: Citric acid cycle
- Biochemical Energetics: Oxidative phosphorylation and electron transport system
Pathology (16%)
- Fundamentals of Pathology - 15% of the Pathology domain
- Fundamentals of Pathology: Disease at the cellular level
- Fundamentals of Pathology: Inflammation and repair
- Fundamentals of Pathology: Neoplasia
- Fundamentals of Pathology: Hemodynamic disorders
- Genetic and Congenital Disorders - 10% of the Pathology domain
- Genetic and Congenital Disorders: Chromosomal disorders
- Genetic and Congenital Disorders: Inborn errors of metabolism
- Genetic and Congenital Disorders: Congenital disorders
- Disorders of the Immune System - 14% of the Pathology domain
- Disorders of the Immune System: Hypersensitivity reactions
- Disorders of the Immune System: Autoimmune diseases
- Disorders of the Immune System: Immunologic deficiencies
- Environmental and Nutritional Diseases - 13% of the Pathology domain
- Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System - 16% of the Pathology domain
- Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System: Bone
- Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System: Joint
- Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System: Muscle
- Disorders of the Nervous System - 16% of the Pathology domain
- Disorders of the Nervous System: Central nervous system
- Disorders of the Nervous System: Peripheral nervous system
- Diseases of the Organ Systems - 16% of the Pathology domain
- Diseases of the Organ Systems: Cardiovascular
- Diseases of the Organ Systems: Gastrointestinal
- Diseases of the Organ Systems: Respiratory
- Diseases of the Organ Systems: Genitourinary
- Diseases of the Organ Systems: Endocrine
- Diseases of the Organ Systems: Blood and lymphatics
Microbiology (11%)
- Immunology - 18% of the Microbiology domain
- Immunology: Cells of the immune system
- Immunology: Antigens, antibodies and complement
- Immunology: Hypersensitivities and immunopathologies
- Immunology: Immunization/vaccination
- Immunology: Assessment of immune responses/serology
- Bacteria - 18% of the Microbiology domain
- Bacteria: Structure and biochemical characteristics
- Bacteria: Resistance, genetics, antigenicity, and pathogenicity
- Bacteria: Communicable and infectious diseases
- Bacteria: Reservoirs of infection and modes of transmission
- Viruses and Prions - 18% of the Microbiology domain
- Viruses and Prions: Structure and biochemical characteristics
- Viruses and Prions: Resistance, genetics, antigenicity, and pathogenicity
- Viruses and Prions: Communicable and infectious diseases
- Viruses and Prions: Reservoirs of infection and modes of transmission
- Fungi - 15% of the Microbiology domain
- Fungi: Structure and biochemical characteristics
- Fungi: Resistance, genetics, antigenicity, and pathogenicity
- Fungi: Communicable and infectious diseases
- Fungi: Reservoirs of infection and modes of transmission
- Parasites - 15% of the Microbiology domain
- Parasites: Structure and biochemical characteristics
- Parasites: Resistance, genetics, antigenicity, and pathogenicity
- Parasites: Communicable and infectious diseases
- Parasites: Reservoirs of infection and modes of transmission
- Epidemiology and Disease Control - 16% of the Microbiology domain
- Epidemiology and Disease Control: Health agencies and reporting/monitoring
- Epidemiology and Disease Control: Prevention, identification and control methods for communicable diseases
- Epidemiology and Disease Control: Population health assessments
- Epidemiology and Disease Control: Emerging diseases
Examination sources
- NBCE 2024 Part I Test Plan
2024 Part I Test Plan, page 1 title
- NBCE 2024 Part I Test Plan
I test plan page 1, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part I Test Plan
I test plan page 2, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part I Test Plan
I test plan page 3, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part I Test Plan
I test plan page 4, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part I Test Plan
I test plan page 5, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part I Test Plan
I test plan page 6, domain heading
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, document title
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 2, "Where can I find the new test plans?" answer
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 2, "How should students prepare for the changes to the Part I and Part II?" answer
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 2, "Would the number of items or questions per domain change?" answer
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 2, Test Plans and Content, forward-only paragraph, third sentence
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, Retakes, first answer, second sentence
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, Retakes, third bullet
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, Scoring Process answer
- NBCE announcement - Computer-Based Testing Advancement and Development (CBT) and Part IV Advancement and Development (PAD)
CBT Advancement and Development, Proposed Solution paragraph
- NBCE home page (www.nbce.org)
NBCE home page, EXAMINEES / MyNBCE.ORG menu, first item
- NBCE - Links to NBCE Exams
Links to NBCE Exams, Parts I, II, III, and Physiotherapy Exams heading paragraph
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 3, Applications and Scheduling, "What will scheduling look like from the student perspective?"
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, Release of Scores answer
NBCE Part II
- Provider
- Prometric
- Format
- Computer-based examination; items are presented grouped by domain with one timer for all six domains, an optional break halfway through, and forward-only navigation. The NBCE grades across all six domains and reports one Part II score; individual domains are not scored.
- Exam questions
- 255 items
- Passing score
- 375
Examination outline
General Diagnosis (19%)
- Case History - 12% of the General Diagnosis domain
- Vital Signs - 6% of the General Diagnosis domain
- Head and Neck Examination/Findings - 9% of the General Diagnosis domain
- Head and Neck Examination/Findings: Eye
- Head and Neck Examination/Findings: Ear
- Head and Neck Examination/Findings: Nose and sinuses
- Head and Neck Examination/Findings: Mouth and throat
- Head and Neck Examination/Findings: Neck
- Thorax Examination/Findings (including heart and lungs) - 8% of the General Diagnosis domain
- Thorax Examination/Findings (including heart and lungs): Inspection
- Thorax Examination/Findings (including heart and lungs): Auscultation
- Thorax Examination/Findings (including heart and lungs): Percussion
- Thorax Examination/Findings (including heart and lungs): Palpation
- Abdominal Examination/Findings - 8% of the General Diagnosis domain
- Abdominal Examination/Findings: Inspection
- Abdominal Examination/Findings: Auscultation
- Abdominal Examination/Findings: Percussion
- Abdominal Examination/Findings: Palpation
- Rectal and Male Urogenital Examination/Findings - 6% of the General Diagnosis domain
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression - 40% of the General Diagnosis domain
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Eyes, ears, nose and throat
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Respiratory diseases
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Cardiovascular diseases
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Blood and lymphatic diseases
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Gastrointestinal diseases
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Genitourinary diseases
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Endocrine and metabolic disorders
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Immunological disorders
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Nutritional disorders
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Infectious diseases
- Laboratory Interpretation - 11% of the General Diagnosis domain
- Laboratory Interpretation: Urinalysis
- Laboratory Interpretation: Hematology
- Laboratory Interpretation: Chemistry/serology
- Laboratory Interpretation: Special studies
Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis (20%)
- Case History - 18% of the Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis domain
- Posture and Gait Assessment - 10% of the Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis domain
- Orthopedic Examination - 21% of the Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis domain
- Orthopedic Examination: Cervical spine
- Orthopedic Examination: Thoracic spine
- Orthopedic Examination: Lumbar spine and pelvis
- Orthopedic Examination: Extremities
- Neurologic Examination - 21% of the Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis domain
- Neurologic Examination: Cranial nerve/CNS testing
- Neurologic Examination: Motor testing
- Neurologic Examination: Sensory testing
- Neurologic Examination: Reflex testing
- Neurologic Examination: Reflex testing: Superficial reflexes
- Neurologic Examination: Reflex testing: Deep tendon reflexes
- Neurologic Examination: Reflex testing: Pathological reflexes
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression - 30% of the Neuromusculoskeletal Diagnosis domain
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: CNS disorders
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Peripheral neurologic/neurovascular disorders
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Muscular disorders
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Bone and joint disorders
Diagnostic Imaging (17%)
- Imaging Technology - 5% of the Diagnostic Imaging domain
- Imaging Technology: Physics and principles
- Imaging Technology: Quality assurance
- Imaging Technology: Radiographic imaging
- Imaging Technology: Radiologic protection
- Radiographic Positioning and Normal Anatomy - 20% of the Diagnostic Imaging domain
- Radiographic Positioning and Normal Anatomy: Spine and pelvis
- Radiographic Positioning and Normal Anatomy: Extremities
- Radiographic Positioning and Normal Anatomy: Thorax and abdomen
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression - 50% of the Diagnostic Imaging domain
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Congenital anomalies and normal variants
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Trauma
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Arthritides
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Tumors/tumor-like processes
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Nutritional, metabolic and endocrine conditions
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Hematologic conditions
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Infectious conditions
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Miscellaneous skeletal conditions
- Imaging Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Thoracic and abdominal conditions
- Methods of Interpretation - 10% of the Diagnostic Imaging domain
- Methods of Interpretation: Biomechanical analysis/mensuration procedures
- Methods of Interpretation: Imaging evaluation (including common misinterpretations)
- Clinical Applications of Special Imaging - 15% of the Diagnostic Imaging domain
- Clinical Applications of Special Imaging: MRI
- Clinical Applications of Special Imaging: CT
- Clinical Applications of Special Imaging: Miscellaneous
Principles of Chiropractic (14%)
- The Chiropractic Paradigm - 23% of the Principles of Chiropractic domain
- The Chiropractic Paradigm: Core concepts
- The Chiropractic Paradigm: Research principles and methods
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions - 26% of the Principles of Chiropractic domain
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions: Dysafferentation (proprioceptive insult)/somatosomatic reflex models
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions: Neural compression/traction models
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions: Visceral reflex models
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions: Vascular insufficiency models
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions: Axonal aberration/trophic models
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions: Neuroimmunomodulation models
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions: Biomechanical models
- Concepts of Subluxation and Spinal Lesions: Other
- Basic Science Concepts in Chiropractic - 25% of the Principles of Chiropractic domain
- Basic Science Concepts in Chiropractic: Anatomical
- Basic Science Concepts in Chiropractic: Pathophysiological
- Basic Science Concepts in Chiropractic: Biomechanical
- Applied Chiropractic Principles - 26% of the Principles of Chiropractic domain
- Applied Chiropractic Principles: Subluxation etiologies
- Applied Chiropractic Principles: General effects of adjustment and manipulation
- Applied Chiropractic Principles: Wellness
Chiropractic Practice (17%)
- Spinal Analysis and Patient Evaluation - 25% of the Chiropractic Practice domain
- Spinal Analysis and Patient Evaluation: Case history and observation findings
- Spinal Analysis and Patient Evaluation: Manual examination of the spine and extremities
- Spinal Analysis and Patient Evaluation: Diagnostic procedures
- Chiropractic Adjustive Technique - 26% of the Chiropractic Practice domain
- Chiropractic Adjustive Technique: Cervical techniques
- Chiropractic Adjustive Technique: Thoracic techniques
- Chiropractic Adjustive Technique: Lumbar techniques
- Chiropractic Adjustive Technique: Pelvic techniques
- Chiropractic Adjustive Technique: Costal and extremity techniques
- Patient Care - 27% of the Chiropractic Practice domain
- Patient Care: Case management
- Patient Care: Contraindications for treatment
- Patient Care: Home care, prevention and rehabilitation
- Community Health and Wellness - 12% of the Chiropractic Practice domain
- Community Health and Wellness: Public health organizations
- Community Health and Wellness: Healthy People initiatives
- Community Health and Wellness: Screening activities for health promotion
- Community Health and Wellness: Tobacco, alcohol, and substance abuse
- Community Health and Wellness: Exercise and healthy diet for obesity
- Community Health and Wellness: Behavior theories and lifestyle change
- Community Health and Wellness: Wellness counseling
- Occupational and Environmental Health - 10% of the Chiropractic Practice domain
- Occupational and Environmental Health: Work-based health risks
- Occupational and Environmental Health: Worker protection and ergonomics
- Occupational and Environmental Health: Injury and violence
- Occupational and Environmental Health: Impact of environment on human health
- Occupational and Environmental Health: Pollution and wastes
Associated Clinical Sciences (13%)
- Geriatrics - 15% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
- Geriatrics: Anatomic and physiologic process of aging
- Geriatrics: Geriatric disorders and case management
- Dermatology - 11% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
- Dermatology: Types of skin lesions
- Dermatology: Microbial infections
- Dermatology: Tumors
- Dermatology: Dermatitis
- Dermatology: Scaling diseases
- Dermatology: Vesicular and bullous diseases
- Dermatology: Pigmentary disorders
- Dermatology: Inflammatory reactions
- Dermatology: Disorders of hair follicles and sebaceous glands
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases - 8% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Gonorrhea
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Syphilis
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases: AIDS
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Chlamydia
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Herpes
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Other
- Toxicology - 10% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
- Toxicology: Pharmacology
- Toxicology: Poisoning
- Toxicology: Environmental and occupational toxicology
- Emergency Procedures - 13% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
- Emergency Procedures: Cardiopulmonary arrest
- Emergency Procedures: Poisoning
- Emergency Procedures: Thermal injuries
- Emergency Procedures: Shock
- Emergency Procedures: Head and spinal injuries
- Emergency Procedures: Choking
- Emergency Procedures: Fractures, dislocations, strains and sprains
- Emergency Procedures: Other
- Psychology - 11% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
- Psychology: Theories and general concepts
- Psychology: Mental and emotional disorders
- Psychology: Assessment methods and case management
- Gynecology and Obstetrics - 11% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
- Gynecology and Obstetrics: Gynecological examination
- Gynecology and Obstetrics: Breast examination and disorders
- Gynecology and Obstetrics: Gynecological disease and abnormalities
- Gynecology and Obstetrics: Pregnancy
- Gynecology and Obstetrics: Labor and delivery
- Gynecology and Obstetrics: Postpartum
- Gynecology and Obstetrics: Obstetric disorders
- Pediatrics - 14% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
- Pediatrics: Care of newborn
- Pediatrics: Growth and development
- Pediatrics: Congenital disorders
- Pediatrics: Childhood infectious diseases
- Pediatrics: Pathological conditions and childhood injuries
- Pediatrics: Emotional disorders and learning disabilities
- Pediatrics: Nutritional problems
- Jurisprudence, Ethics and Basic Economics - 7% of the Associated Clinical Sciences domain
Examination sources
- NBCE 2024 Part II Test Plan
2024 Part II Test Plan, page 1 title
- NBCE 2024 Part II Test Plan
II test plan page 1, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part II Test Plan
II test plan page 2, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part II Test Plan
II test plan page 3, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part II Test Plan
II test plan page 4, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part II Test Plan
II test plan page 5, domain heading
- NBCE 2024 Part II Test Plan
II test plan page 6, domain heading
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, document title
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 2, "Where can I find the new test plans?" answer
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 2, "How should students prepare for the changes to the Part I and Part II?" answer
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 2, "Would the number of items or questions per domain change?" answer
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 2, Test Plans and Content, forward-only paragraph, third sentence
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, Retakes, first answer, second sentence
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, Retakes, third bullet
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, Scoring Process answer
- NBCE announcement - Computer-Based Testing Advancement and Development (CBT) and Part IV Advancement and Development (PAD)
CBT Advancement and Development, Proposed Solution paragraph
- NBCE home page (www.nbce.org)
NBCE home page, EXAMINEES / MyNBCE.ORG menu, first item
- NBCE - Links to NBCE Exams
Links to NBCE Exams, Parts I, II, III, and Physiotherapy Exams heading paragraph
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 3, Applications and Scheduling, "What will scheduling look like from the student perspective?"
- NBCE - Changes to Computer-Based Testing to be Implemented in August 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ page 1, Release of Scores answer
Part III
- Provider
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners; computer-based testing at chiropractic colleges and Prometric testing centers
- Format
- Computer-based examination with three item types that equally contribute to the total exam score: traditional multiple-choice (TMCQ, 1 response), extended multiple-choice cases (EMCQ, case presentation followed by a question requiring 2 responses) and diagnostic imaging interpretation (DXI, imaging set followed by a question requiring 1 response). Applications coded V2PT3 take this version with DXI; applications coded PT3 take the version without DXI, whose published test plan covers the same nine clinical categories without the DXI portion (category weightings on that plan: Case History 11%, Physical Examination 9%, Neuromusculoskeletal Examination 11%, Diagnostic Imaging 11%, Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies 7%, Diagnosis or Clinical Impression 14%, Chiropractic Techniques 14%, Supportive Interventions 8%, Case Management 15%). The NBCE states that almost every examinee takes the version with DXI.
- Exam questions
- 80 traditional multiple-choice questions, 20 extended multiple-choice case presentations and 30 diagnostic imaging interpretation sets
- Time limit
- 4 hours testing time; 4 hours 31 minutes appointment including tutorial, end-of-exam survey and optional 15-minute break
- Passing score
- 375
- Exam fee
- $710
Examination outline
Traditional multiple-choice (TMCQ) and extended multiple-choice cases (EMCQ): nine categories of clinical competency (80%)
- Case History - 11% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Case History: Chief complaint
- Case History: Present illness
- Case History: Past history
- Case History: Family history
- Case History: Personal and social history
- Case History: Review of systems
- Physical Examination - 8% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Physical Examination: General survey
- Physical Examination: Head and neck examination
- Physical Examination: Thorax and lung examination
- Physical Examination: Cardiovascular examination
- Physical Examination: Breast and axilla examination
- Physical Examination: Abdominal examination
- Physical Examination: Urogenital examination
- Physical Examination: Rectal examination
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination - 12% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination: Posture and gait analysis
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination: Standard spinal and extremity orthopedic procedures
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination: Standard neurological testing procedures
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination: Peripheral vascular examination procedures
- Diagnostic Imaging - 11% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Diagnostic Imaging: Indications and contraindications for diagnostic imaging procedures
- Diagnostic Imaging: Patient protection and positioning
- Diagnostic Imaging: Normal anatomy
- Diagnostic Imaging: Description and interpretation of images
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies - 7% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Urinalysis
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Hematology
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Serology
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Blood chemistries
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Stool analysis
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Joint fluid analysis
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Electrophysiologic recordings (EEG, ECG, EMG, and NCV)
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression - 16% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Patient history
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Physical and neuromusculoskeletal examinations
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Diagnostic imaging
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Clinical laboratory and special studies
- Chiropractic Techniques - 11% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Chiropractic Techniques: Indications and contraindications for chiropractic care
- Chiropractic Techniques: Spinal adjustive techniques
- Chiropractic Techniques: Extremity adjustive techniques
- Chiropractic Techniques: Skeletal biomechanics
- Supportive Interventions - 9% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Supportive Interventions: Physiotherapy modalities
- Supportive Interventions: Nutrition and diet
- Supportive Interventions: Corrective exercises and rehabilitation
- Supportive Interventions: Protective body mechanics and ergonomics
- Supportive Interventions: Patient education and self-care
- Supportive Interventions: Wellness and lifestyle counseling
- Case Management - 15% of the TMCQ/EMCQ content
- Case Management: Formulation of a treatment plan and prognosis
- Case Management: Appropriate procedures for case follow-up and review
- Case Management: Patient referral and/or co-management
- Case Management: Clinical documentation and informed consent
Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (DXI): six categories (20%)
- DXI - Arthritic Disorders - 30% of the DXI content
- DXI - Arthritic Disorders: Degenerative
- DXI - Arthritic Disorders: Inflammatory
- DXI - Arthritic Disorders: Metabolic/Crystalline
- DXI - Congenital Anomalies and Skeletal Variants - 15% of the DXI content
- DXI - Congenital Anomalies and Skeletal Variants: Spinal
- DXI - Congenital Anomalies and Skeletal Variants: Extraspinal
- DXI - Congenital Anomalies and Skeletal Variants: Scoliosis
- DXI - Trauma - 10% of the DXI content
- DXI - Trauma: Skeletal
- DXI - Trauma: Soft tissue
- DXI - Tumors and Tumor-like Processes - 20% of the DXI content
- DXI - Tumors and Tumor-like Processes: Benign
- DXI - Tumors and Tumor-like Processes: Primary malignant
- DXI - Tumors and Tumor-like Processes: Metastatic
- DXI - Tumors and Tumor-like Processes: Tumor-like
- DXI - Miscellaneous Osteoarticular - 15% of the DXI content
- DXI - Miscellaneous Osteoarticular: Hematological/Vascular
- DXI - Miscellaneous Osteoarticular: Infections
- DXI - Miscellaneous Osteoarticular: Nutritional/Metabolic
- DXI - Miscellaneous Osteoarticular: Endocrine
- DXI - Soft Tissue - 10% of the DXI content
- DXI - Soft Tissue: Chest
- DXI - Soft Tissue: Abdomen
- DXI - Soft Tissue: Miscellaneous
Examination sources
- NBCE — Part III Test Plan (WITH Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation/DXI)
Introductory paragraph, 80% TMCQ/EMCQ portion
- NBCE — Part III Test Plan (WITH Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation/DXI)
DXI portion, 20% of exam content
- NBCE — Part III Test Plan (WITH Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation/DXI)
Final DXI category
- NBCE — Part III Exam
What Is A Passing Score For Part III?
- NBCE — Part III Exam
Part III WITH Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation (DXI), item types
- NBCE — Part III Exam
Exam Update Details, application code V2PT3
- NBCE — Part III Exam
Exam Update Details, application code PT3
- NBCE — Part III Exam
Please Note
- NBCE — Part III Test Plan (WITHOUT Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation/DXI)
Page heading
- NBCE — Part III Exam
Who Can Take Part III?
- NBCE — Part III Exam
Part III Fees
- NBCE — Dates & Deadlines: CBT Exams
2026 Administrations – CBT, heading
- NBCE — Dates & Deadlines: CBT Exams
2026 Administrations – CBT, first administration row
Part IV
This assessment does not have a question bank.
- Provider
- NBCE Assessment Center, Greeley, Colorado
- Format
- Eight stations with simulated patients: seven case management encounters followed by a written SOAP note, graded on Patient Evaluations, Patient Examination, Clinical Decision Making & Case Management, Interpersonal & Communication Skills and Documentation, with content areas Musculoskeletal System, Neurological Conditions, Cardiovascular/Pulmonary Conditions, Gastrointestinal Conditions, Endocrine Conditions, Renal/Urological Conditions and Malignant Conditions; and one technique station with ten chiropractic adjustments (doctor position, patient position, line of drive) covering cervical, thoracic, lumbar, pelvic/sacral and extremity adjusting. Encounters are video-recorded for scoring. Offered Friday through Sunday, 48 weeks a year; after May 17, 2026 only at the NBCE Assessment Center.
Examination sources
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
Content Areas slide, first listed area
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
Content Areas slide, last listed area
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
Grading Domains slide, heading
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
Grading Domains, Technique Station slide
- NBCE Part IV Exam Transition graphic
Transition graphic, NBCE Assessment Center in Greeley ONLY column, test format row
- NBCE Annual Report 2025
Annual Report 2025 page 5, Part IV Pilot Exams, left column
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
What's Changing? slide, Documentation
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
What's Changing? slide, Video Recording
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
What's Changing? slide, Patient Encounters
- NBCE Part IV Advancement and Development Project - Overview of Changes to the Part IV Exam
Overview of Changes, What is changing, Format bullet, first sentence
- NBCE Annual Report 2025
Annual Report 2025 page 12, Launching the New Part IV Exam, technique station sentence
- NBCE Part IV Advancement and Development Project - Overview of Changes to the Part IV Exam
Page 5, "How soon will an examinee be able to retake the Part IV after failing?" answer
- NBCE Annual Report 2025
Annual Report 2025 page 12, right column, final line of the transition paragraph
- NBCE Annual Report 2025
Annual Report 2025 page 5, right column, Student Countdown Navigation paragraph
- NBCE home page (www.nbce.org)
NBCE home page, EXAMINEES / MyNBCE.ORG menu, second item
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
What to Expect, Scheduling your exam, Online Portal
- NBCE - What's Changing in Part IV? Elevating Chiropractic Assessment (webinar slides)
What to Expect, Scheduling your exam, Testing Days
- NBCE Part IV Exam Transition graphic
Transition graphic, NBCE Assessment Center in Greeley ONLY column, timeline row, first line
- NBCE Part IV Exam Transition graphic
Transition graphic, NBCE Assessment Center in Greeley ONLY column, timeline row, second line
Physiotherapy
- Provider
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners; computer-based testing at chiropractic colleges and Prometric testing centers
- Format
- Elective, computer-based multiple-choice examination; may be taken individually or in conjunction with other NBCE examinations; candidates must have completed 120 hours of instruction in physiotherapy
- Exam questions
- 90 standard multiple-choice questions
- Time limit
- 75 minutes testing time; 90-minute testing appointment
- Passing score
- NBCE-recommended passing score of 375; individual states may require a higher passing score
- Exam fee
- $450
Examination outline
Thermotherapy (10%)
- Thermotherapy: Hot moist packs
- Thermotherapy: Ultrasound
- Thermotherapy: Cryotherapy
Electrotherapy (10%)
- Electrotherapy: Interferential current
- Electrotherapy: High voltage therapy
- Electrotherapy: Electrical muscle stimulation
- Electrotherapy: TENS
- Electrotherapy: Microcurrent
Mechanotherapy (10%)
- Mechanotherapy: Cervical/lumbar traction
- Mechanotherapy: Massage, vibration and trigger point therapy
- Mechanotherapy: Bracing/orthotics
- Mechanotherapy: Taping
Phototherapy (7%)
- Phototherapy: Low Level Laser
- Phototherapy: Ultraviolet
Functional Assessment (11%)
- Functional Assessment: Gait
- Functional Assessment: Movement patterns
- Functional Assessment: Muscle imbalances
Exercise Physiology (8%)
- Exercise Physiology: Neurobiology of training and conditioning
- Exercise Physiology: Biochemistry of training and conditioning
Endurance Training (8%)
- Endurance Training: Aerobic capacity and adaption
- Endurance Training: Cardiovascular rehabilitation
Muscle Rehabilitation (11%)
- Muscle Rehabilitation: Stretching
- Muscle Rehabilitation: Strengthening
Neuromuscular Rehabilitation (11%)
- Neuromuscular Rehabilitation: Balance and alignment
- Neuromuscular Rehabilitation: Coordinated movement patterns
- Neuromuscular Rehabilitation: Core/spine stabilization
Disorder-specific Rehabilitation (14%)
- Disorder-specific Rehabilitation: Spine and pelvis
- Disorder-specific Rehabilitation: Upper extremities
- Disorder-specific Rehabilitation: Lower extremities
Examination sources
- NBCE — Physiotherapy Test Plan
Thermotherapy category
- NBCE — Physiotherapy Test Plan
Phototherapy category
- NBCE — Physiotherapy Test Plan
Disorder-specific Rehabilitation category
- NBCE — Physiotherapy Exam
What Is The Physiotherapy Exam?
- NBCE — Physiotherapy Exam
What Is A Passing Score?
- NBCE — Physiotherapy Exam
Who Can Take Physiotherapy? — instruction
- NBCE — Physiotherapy Exam
Who Can Take Physiotherapy? — separate sitting
- NBCE — Dates & Deadlines: CBT Exams
2026 Administrations – CBT, heading
- NBCE — Dates & Deadlines: CBT Exams
2026 Administrations – CBT, first administration row
Special Purposes Examination for Chiropractic
- Provider
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners; administered at Prometric Testing Centers throughout North America
- Format
- Post-licensure multiple-choice examination in two parts, 100 traditional multiple-choice questions (TMCQ) and 40 extended multiple-choice cases (EMCQ), addressing the general clinical knowledge and understanding required for chiropractic practice; offered six times per year; both sessions must be completed to receive a score. Candidates must hold or have held a chiropractic license and need authorization from a state board or international licensing agency.
- Exam questions
- 100 traditional multiple-choice questions and 40 extended multiple-choice cases
- Time limit
- Approximately three hours, in two equal sessions of 90 minutes each
- Passing score
- NBCE-recommended passing score of 375; use of SPEC scores is at the discretion of individual state licensing boards
- Exam fee
- $1,500 exam fee/retake fee
Examination outline
Case History (11%)
- Case History: Chief complaint
- Case History: Present illness
- Case History: Past history
- Case History: Family history
- Case History: Personal and social history
- Case History: Review of systems
Physical Examination (8%)
- Physical Examination: General survey
- Physical Examination: Head and neck examination
- Physical Examination: Thorax and lung examination
- Physical Examination: Cardiovascular examination
- Physical Examination: Breast and axilla examination
- Physical Examination: Abdominal examination
- Physical Examination: Urogenital examination
- Physical Examination: Rectal examination
Neuromusculoskeletal Examination (12%)
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination: Posture and gait analysis
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination: Standard spinal and extremity orthopedic procedures
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination: Standard neurological testing procedures
- Neuromusculoskeletal Examination: Peripheral vascular examination procedures
Diagnostic Imaging (12%)
- Diagnostic Imaging: Indications and contraindications for diagnostic imaging procedures
- Diagnostic Imaging: Patient protection and positioning
- Diagnostic Imaging: Normal anatomy
- Diagnostic Imaging: Description and interpretation of images
Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies (6%)
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Urinalysis
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Hematology
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Serology
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Blood chemistries
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Stool analysis
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Joint fluid analysis
- Clinical Laboratory and Special Studies: Electrophysiologic recordings (EEG, ECG, EMG, and NCV)
Diagnosis or Clinical Impression (17%)
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Patient history
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Physical and neuromusculoskeletal examinations
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Diagnostic imaging
- Diagnosis or Clinical Impression: Clinical laboratory and special studies
Chiropractic Techniques (9%)
- Chiropractic Techniques: Indications and contraindications for chiropractic care
- Chiropractic Techniques: Spinal adjustive techniques
- Chiropractic Techniques: Extremity adjustive techniques
- Chiropractic Techniques: Skeletal biomechanics
Supportive Interventions (10%)
- Supportive Interventions: Physiotherapy modalities
- Supportive Interventions: Nutrition and diet
- Supportive Interventions: Corrective exercises and rehabilitation
- Supportive Interventions: Protective body mechanics and ergonomics
- Supportive Interventions: Patient education and self-care
- Supportive Interventions: Wellness and lifestyle counseling
Case Management (15%)
- Case Management: Formulation of a treatment plan and prognosis
- Case Management: Appropriate procedures for case follow-up and review
- Case Management: Patient referral and/or co-management
- Case Management: Clinical documentation and informed consent
Examination sources
- NBCE — SPEC Test Plan
First category
- NBCE — SPEC Test Plan
Final category
- NBCE — SPEC
What Is SPEC?, sessions
- NBCE — SPEC
What Is A Passing Score?
- NBCE — SPEC Test Plan
Introductory paragraph
- NBCE — SPEC
Who Can Take SPEC? — license
- NBCE — SPEC
Who Can Take SPEC? — authorization
- NBCE — SPEC
2026 Examination Dates, first row