(1) An applicant for licensure as a physical therapist assistant shall meet the requirements of section 16174 and, except as otherwise provided in subsection (2), all of the following requirements, as applicable:

    (a) Is a graduate of a program for the training of physical therapist assistants approved by the board.

    (b) If graduated from a program described in subdivision (a) after January 1, 2008, has passed an examination approved by the board.

    (2) For the purposes of subsection (1)(a), the board shall approve a physical therapist assistant training program from the United States military or from outside of the United States if that training program is determined to be substantially equivalent to physical therapist assistant entry level training in the United States by a credentials evaluation organization approved by the American physical therapy association or is listed as a credentialing organization in 8 CFR 212.15(e).