(1)    The examining board shall conduct or arrange for examinations for physical therapist and physical therapist assistant licensure at least semiannually and at times and places determined by the examining board.

   (2)   

      (a)    Except as provided in sub. (3), examinations for physical therapist licensure shall consist of written or oral tests, or both, requiring applicants to demonstrate minimum competency in subjects substantially related to the practice of physical therapy.

      (b)    Examinations for physical therapist assistant licensure shall consist of written or oral tests, or both, requiring applicants to demonstrate minimum competency in the technical application of physical therapy services.

   (3)   Notwithstanding s. 448.53 (1) (f), the examining board may not require an applicant for physical therapist licensure to take an oral examination or an examination to test proficiency in the English language for the sole reason that the applicant was educated at a physical therapy school that is not in the United States if the applicant establishes, to the satisfaction of the examining board, that he or she satisfies the requirements under s. 448.53 (3).