What is the regulatory term currently used for PAs in states and the District of Columbia?

• A. Certified
• B. Registered
• C. Licensed
• D. Credentialed

Answer: (C)

In practice, physician assistants are regulated by state medical boards, and the legal authorization to practice is granted through licensure. The license is the official permission to diagnose and treat patients within a defined scope of practice, and it is what appears as the credential indicating you’re legally practicing in that state or district. The national certificate you earn from the certifying body (PA-C) confirms you met national standards, but it doesn’t by itself grant the right to practice—licensure does. Some states also require ongoing certification maintenance, but the regulatory term used on state records and licenses is “licensed.” Terms like “certified” refer to the national credential, not the state license, while “registered” and “credentialed” are not the standard regulatory terms used for PA practice in most jurisdictions.