When did PAs change from registered to licensed in New York?

• A. 2010
• B. 1999
• C. 2013
• D. 2005

Answer: (C)

In New York, the shift from registration to licensure for physician assistants happened in 2013. That year the state established a formal licensure framework under the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions, moving away from the older registered status. Licensure provides title protection for “Physician Assistant,” a defined scope of practice with supervision requirements, and standardized credentialing standards.

So, moving forward from that year, new applicants apply for a license (and existing registered PAs could convert to licensure), with requirements such as NCCPA certification, ongoing continuing education, and license renewal. This change aligns NY with the common national trend of licensing PAs to ensure consistent professional standards and public protection.