Whether you're at the start of your journey or seeking to enhance your profession as a Respiratory Therapist (RT), learning about the state licensure process is essential. This guide is your comprehensive companion, supplying you with a clear and in-depth understanding of Respiratory Therapist licensure across the United States.
Respiratory Therapy is an allied health profession that empowers individuals to overcome respiratory difficulties, enhancing and maintaining their ability to breathe and overall quality of life. If you're interested in learning more about what this role involves, we invite you to explore our Respiratory Therapist Career Guide.
This field is anticipated to see significant growth in the near future. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a strong 14% rise in RT employment from 2021 to 2031, well above the average for all occupations. By stepping into the world of RT, you're entering a healthcare space ripe with opportunities. Let's dive into all you need to know about your Respiratory Therapist license in each state.
- General Requirements to Become a Respiratory Therapist
- Potential for a Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact?
- Respiratory Therapist Licensure Requirements by State
- Key Points to Remember About Respiratory Therapy Licensure
General Requirements to Become a Respiratory Therapist
If you have aspirations to become a Respiratory Therapist, here is a straightforward breakdown of the steps you'll need to follow:
- Education: You will need to graduate from a Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC)-accredited Respiratory Therapist education program. These programs typically last for four years (eight semesters) for a Bachelor's degree. Key subject areas in the Respiratory Therapist curriculum often include anatomy, physiology, respiratory care procedures, pathophysiology, microbiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, and medical gas therapy.
- Clinical Education: As a Respiratory Therapy student, you will spend a significant portion of your program in full-time clinical education experiences. This critical phase provides a practical platform for applying the knowledge and skills you've developed in the classroom.
- Licensure Examination: Upon completing your education and clinical training, you must pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination to be eligible for licensure to practice.
- Initial License Application and Fees: Lastly, with the examination successfully passed, you'll need to complete your initial Respiratory Therapist license application and pay the respective fee for the state or jurisdiction where you intend to practice.
Potential for a Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact?
Respiratory Therapists do not currently have a compact license agreement in place. However, the American Association for Respiratory Care has recently begun discussing the potential for such an agreement.
A compact license agreement is a reciprocal understanding between multiple states that allows a healthcare professional licensed in one state to practice in any other state that's part of the agreement, without needing to acquire additional licenses.
This arrangement simplifies the process for professionals who wish to practice in different states and can particularly benefit those who live near state borders and those providing telehealth services across state lines. It should be noted that while the idea is under discussion, the implementation of a compact license agreement for Respiratory Therapists will require legislative action, collaboration and agreement among the participating states.
In the upcoming section, we will look at the licensure requirements on a state-by-state basis to offer a comprehensive overview of what's needed to secure and maintain your license in each state.
Respiratory Therapist Licensure Requirements by State
If you're an experienced RT looking for new opportunities, or a new graduate looking for an adventure, our available positions can help you find the perfect role. Below we review each state's requirements and license information. At Trusted, we provide support throughout your journey, ensuring that you can focus on providing high-quality patient care.
Explore our available positions for Respiratory Therapists today, and let us help you further your career in this rewarding field.
Alabama
Temporary/Limited Permit: Board may issue a 6-month temporary license renewable once for an additional 6-month period to persons who have graduated from an approved program and who have applied for and are awaiting competency examination.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $75 renewal fee. 24 CE hours are required each renewal period.
More Information: Alabama State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Alaska
Currently, there is no license needed in Alaska. RTs only have to provide proof that they have completed a respiratory program at a college or university.
Arizona
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license available.
Initial Licensing Fee: $273
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $153 renewal fee. 20 total CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Arizona State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Arkansas
Temporary/Limited Permit: May issue a temporary permit to persons not licensed in other states, but who otherwise meet qualifications for licensure. Expires at the date of the next board meeting unless the board ratifies or extends the decision. There is a $2 fee for a temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $4
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $2 renewal fee. 12 CE hours are required annually.
More Information: Arkansas State Board of Respiratory Therapy
California
Temporary/Limited Permit: May work under the supervision of a CA-licensed RT if they have met educational requirements for licensure.
Initial Licensing Fee: $300
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $300 renewal fee. 30 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: California State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Colorado
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $85
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $24 renewal fee. There's no CE requirement.
More Information: Colorado State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Connecticut
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary permit can be issued to a person who completed education and applied for licensure. Permit is valid until applicant takes examination.
Initial Licensing Fee: $190
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $105 renewal fee. 10 hours of CE hours are required every year.
More Information: Connecticut State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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Delaware
Temporary/Limited Permit: A student temporary permit can be issued no more than 20 weeks prior to graduation from approved RC program. Ceases on graduation date.
Initial Licensing Fee: $143
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $101 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every year.
More Information: Delaware State Board of Respiratory Therapy
District of Columbia
Temporary/Limited Permit: A student or applicant whose first application for licensure has been submitted to the Board may practice respiratory therapy under the direct supervision of a licensed RCP who collaborates with a licensed physician.
Initial Licensing Fee: $254
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $169 renewal fee. 16 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: District of Columbia State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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Florida
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $105
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $95 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Florida State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Georgia
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary permit is available to individuals licensed in another state or graduate of an approved program pending completion of all other requirements for certification for a period of 12 months. Temporary permits may not be renewed.
Initial Licensing Fee: $150
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $105 renewal fee. 30 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Georgia State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Hawaii
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $340
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 3 years with a $270 renewal fee. No CE requirement.
More Information: Hawaii State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Idaho
Temporary/Limited Permit: Person who does not meet requirements for licensure and who is not exempt shall apply for a temporary permit. Authorized to practice under supervision of an RCP or physician for one year. Can be renewed one time for one additional year
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $65 renewal fee. 12 hours of CE hours are required yearly.
More Information: Idaho State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Illinois
Temporary/Limited Permit: A person may practice if they have applied for a license and have complied with all provisions except for the passing of an examination, but not to exceed 6 months.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $100 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Illinois State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Indiana
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary permit available for individuals currently licensed in another state or recent graduates who will be required to take the examination within 6 months after graduation.
Initial Licensing Fee: $50
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $50 renewal fee. 15 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Indiana State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Iowa
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $75
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $75 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Iowa State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Kansas
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary license available to applicants who meet the requirements for licensure except examination. Temporary licenses shall expire six months from date of issue or when licensure application is approved.
Initial Licensing Fee: $80
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $75 renewal fee. 12 hours of CE hours are required every year.
More Information: Kansas State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Kentucky
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary certificate may be issued to the graduate for a period not to exceed 6 months. Certificate expires after 6 months or upon failure of the exam.
Initial Licensing Fee: $150
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $90 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Kentucky State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Louisiana
Temporary/Limited Permit: Persons who are waiting on the NBRC examination may receive up to 6-month temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $125
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $85 renewal fee. `0 hours of CE hours are required every year.
More Information: Louisiana State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Maine
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary license is available to individuals who can prove completion of an approved program and submit an affidavit from a supervisor from the proposed place of employment.
Initial Licensing Fee: $135
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $135 renewal fee. There's no CE requirement.
More Information: Maine State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Maryland
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $200
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $176 renewal fee. 16 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Maryland State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Massachusetts
Temporary/Limited Permit: Limited license is available to current student or graduate of approved program who is eligible to sit for the exam. Must be under supervision of a licensed RT. Term of the temporary license is one year or when the holder of license fails licensure examination or receives initial license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $260
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $110 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Massachusetts State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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Michigan
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $183
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $162 renewal fee. There's no CE requirement.
More Information: Michigan State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Minnesota
Temporary/Limited Permit: Board may issue a temporary permit to an applicant if the application for licensure is complete, all applicable requirements have been met, and a nonrefundable fee has been paid. Permit remains valid until the Board makes a decision regarding the therapist's application.
Initial Licensing Fee: $223
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $90 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Minnesota State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Mississippi
Temporary/Limited Permit: Board may issue a temporary permit for a period of 6 months to an applicant pending the compliance of the requirements for licensure. Applicants must be a student in an approved program who expects to graduate within 30 days of the application and who is eligible to sit for the examination.
Initial Licensing Fee: $75
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $100 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Mississippi State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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Missouri
Temporary/Limited Permit: Student/temporary permits available to those enrolled in/graduated from approved school who complete the background check for up to six months after graduation date.
Initial Licensing Fee: $40
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $30 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Missouri State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Montana
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $75 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Montana State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Nebraska
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $118
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $118 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Nebraska State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Nevada
Temporary/Limited Permit: Any person who has earned HS diploma/GED and has completed an approved RT program can practice as an intern for not more than 12 months after graduation.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100 Application, $275 Initial Registration fee
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $200 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Nevada State Board of Respiratory Therapy
New Hampshire
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $165
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $165 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: New Hampshire State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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New Jersey
Temporary/Limited Permit: New graduates who are only waiting to take the examination can apply for a temporary license. The temporary license is valid for six months and not renewable.
Initial Licensing Fee: $125 Application fee, $160 Initial license fee.
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $160 renewal fee. 30 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: New Jersey State Board of Respiratory Therapy
New Mexico
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $150
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $150 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: New Mexico State Board of Respiratory Therapy
New York
Temporary/Limited Permit: You may apply for a limited permit if you meet all other requirements for licensure in NY state except the licensing examination.
Initial Licensing Fee: $294
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 3 years with a $237 renewal fee. 30 hours of CE hours are required every 3 years.
More Information: New York State Board of Respiratory Therapy
North Carolina
Temporary/Limited Permit: Upon application and payment of the required fees, the Board may grant a temporary license to a person who, at the time of application, submits required items while awaiting official copies of the items from the issuing agency. Temporary license shall be valid for a period not to exceed 90 days from the date of application.
Initial Licensing Fee: $125
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $75 renewal fee. 12 hours of CE hours are required every year.
More Information: North Carolina State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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North Dakota
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $80
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $80 renewal fee. 10 hours of CE hours are required every year.
More Information: North Dakota State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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Ohio
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $75
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $75 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Ohio State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Oklahoma
Temporary/Limited Permit: Provisional licenses are available to a person licensed in another state OR a graduate of an approved program who has applied to take the examination. Licenses are issued for 6 months.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $75 renewal fee. 12 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Oklahoma State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Oregon
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $100 renewal fee. 7 hours of CE hours are required every year.
More Information: Oregon State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Pennsylvania
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $30
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 3 years with a $25 renewal fee. 30 hours of CE hours are required every 3 years.
More Information: Pennsylvania State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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Rhode Island
Temporary/Limited Permit: Every graduate of an approved program who has filed an application for licensure may perform as an RT under the supervision of a licensed RCP. Valid for 90 days.
Initial Licensing Fee: $60
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $60 renewal fee. 12 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Rhode Island State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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South Carolina
Temporary/Limited Permit: The board may issue a temporary license if all licensing requirements have been met.
Initial Licensing Fee: $120
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $75 renewal fee. 30 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: South Carolina State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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South Dakota
Temporary/Limited Permit: The Board may grant a temporary permit to a new graduate. A temporary permit is nonrenewable and terminates 3 months from the date when the applicant becomes eligible to take the licensure exam or upon applicant's failure to pass the exam, whichever occurs first.
Initial Licensing Fee: $75
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $60 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: South Dakota State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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Tennessee
Temporary/Limited Permit: Temporary license is available to applicants who have filed their application with the Board and whose application file includes all required documentation except proof of their examination passage. A temporary license can be issued for no more than 6 months.
Initial Licensing Fee: $150
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $175 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Tennessee State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Texas
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary permit is valid for not more than 12 months and the applicant must be supervised by a licensed RT.
Initial Licensing Fee: $125
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $106 renewal fee. 24 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Texas State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Utah
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $60
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $52 renewal fee. There is no CE requirement.
More Information: Utah State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Vermont
Temporary/Limited Permit: A temporary license without examination may be issued to a person who applies for the first time and meets all other qualifications.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $240 renewal fee. 12 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Vermont State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Virginia
Temporary/Limited Permit: No temporary license.
Initial Licensing Fee: $135
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $135 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Virginia State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Washington
Temporary/Limited Permit: An individual who has completed an approved program is eligible for temporary practice. The individual must submit an application and sit for the examination within 90 days of graduation and be under the supervision of a licensed RT.
Initial Licensing Fee: $140
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $110 renewal fee. 30 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: Washington State Board of Respiratory Therapy
West Virginia
Temporary/Limited Permit: The Board may issue a temporary permit for a period of 6 months to an applicant who is currently practicing in another state and is completing requirements for licensure in West Virginia.
Initial Licensing Fee: $200
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $65 renewal fee. 20 hours of CE hours are required every 2 years.
More Information: West Virginia State Board of Respiratory Therapy
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Wisconsin
Temporary/Limited Permit: Applicants certified to practice in another state may apply to the board for a temporary certificate for a period not to exceed 3 months and cannot be renewed.
Initial Licensing Fee: $150
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 2 years with a $170 renewal fee. There's no CE requirement.
More Information: Wisconsin State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Wyoming
Temporary/Limited Permit: The Board may issue a temporary permit to an applicant currently licensed in another state, or the applicant meets licensure requirements, is currently enrolled in an approved program and is expected to graduate within 30 days of application. Permit is valid for 6 months and may be renewed only once for an additional six months.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually with a $100 renewal fee. 8 hours of CE hours are required every year.
More Information: Wyoming State Board of Respiratory Therapy
Key Points to Remember About Respiratory Therapy Licensure
Embarking on your career as a licensed Respiratory Therapist requires thoughtful planning and deliberation, but remember, you're free to practice wherever you find most suitable! Here are some practical pointers to assist you in this journey:
- State Applications: As a Respiratory Therapist, your options aren't limited to one state. You can apply for licensure to practice in numerous states, providing you the freedom to choose your work location. However, it's important to remember that each state has its unique licensure requirements. Stay informed by routinely checking each state board's website for the latest information. Keep in mind that a compact license agreement might be available in the future.
- Organization is Key: The licensure process can be less overwhelming with good organization. Keep all your documents related to licensure, exams, and health requirements in a well-organized file. The licensure process generally includes a state or federal criminal background check, official academic transcripts, and evidence of passing the state's laws and regulations exam related to respiratory therapy practice.
- Job Search: Don't hesitate to begin your job search and attend interviews even before you graduate - some states might even allow you to take the exam prior to your graduation date! Be sure to check out our resume and interview guide so that you’re as prepared as possible!
- Communication is crucial: Always keep prospective employers updated about your licensure status. Some states offer a temporary license for recent graduates with certain supervision rules. However, if you fail to pass the necessary examination or your license isn't issued, you'll need to wait until your permanent license is secured before you can start practicing.
- Licensure Timing: Be aware that license processing times can vary significantly from state to state. You might need to consider this and the availability of a temporary license as you plan your employment. You can always check directly with the board to understand their processing time and how to track your application.
Becoming a licensed Respiratory Therapist is a journey that requires careful planning, adherence to each state's individual requirements, and patience as you navigate the licensure landscape. But remember, you're setting off on an exciting path, and these insights can serve as your guide, helping you realize your career dreams.
Your RT Journey Starts Here: Sign Up with Trusted Today!
We hope this comprehensive guide has been useful in mapping out the path ahead. As you embark on or continue your journey as a Respiratory Therapist, remember that the adventure is just as significant as the destination.
So, why wait? Expand your horizons and seize the unique opportunity to travel and work as a Respiratory Therapist. Sign up with Trusted today!
