Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
The Certified Respiratory Therapist credential certifies individuals to provide respiratory care under medical supervision. It validates the holder's knowledge and skills in therapeutic and diagnostic services for patients with cardiopulmonary issues.
Total Cost
Estimated Budget
Median Salary
Annual Earnings
Job Growth
10-Year Outlook
Training Hours
Total Program Duration
Who Needs This Credential?
This certification is required for respiratory therapists who seek to work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. It is especially necessary for those entering the profession.
Reciprocity varies by state. Some states have agreements that allow therapists to practice across state lines with minimal additional requirements, while others require specific state-level examinations.
Requirements
To become a Certified Respiratory Therapist, candidates must complete an accredited respiratory therapy educational program, pass a national exam, and meet specific health and legal standards. Eligibility also includes a minimum age requirement and educational prerequisites.
- Minimum Age
- 18
- Minimum Education
- Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy
- Training Hours
- Varies by program, typically includes clinical rotations
- Background Check
- Includes criminal history and verification of educational credentials
Other Requirements
How to Become CRT Certified
The process to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist involves around 5-7 steps and typically takes 2-4 years, depending on educational and training timelines. The path includes formal education, passing exams, and obtaining licensure.
Complete an Accredited Program
Enroll in and complete an associate degree or higher in respiratory therapy from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).
Choose a program that fits your career goals and budget.
Apply for the TMC Exam
After graduation, apply to take the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
Ensure all graduation documentation is ready to avoid delays.
Pass the TMC Exam
Achieve a passing score on the TMC Exam to qualify for the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE).
Study from a variety of sources like textbooks, practice tests, and review courses.
Apply for and Pass the CSE
If the high cut score is achieved on the TMC, apply and pass the CSE to become eligible for state licensure and the CRT credential.
Focus on practical application of knowledge and scenario-based practice.
Obtain Licensure
Apply for a state license in respiratory therapy, requirements vary by state but generally include passing the NBRC exams.
Check specific state requirements early to ensure compliance.
Maintain Certification
Maintain your CRT credential by meeting the Continuing Respiratory Care Education (CRCE) requirements set by the NBRC.
Plan continuing education activities throughout the credential period to avoid last-minute completion.
Cost Breakdown
The total cost for becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist varies primarily due to differences in training costs, which depend on the institution and program length. Financial aid is often available, and some employers may cover certification costs.
💰 Financial Aid Available
Some employers offer sponsorship for respiratory therapy certification, covering fees associated with training, exams, and applications.
Salary & Career Outlook
Entry Level
$52,000
Median Salary
$80,450
Experienced
$98,000
Job Outlook: 12.1%
The growth in respiratory therapy jobs is driven by an aging population with increased health needs, such as chronic respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma. Advances in biomedical technology and treatments also contribute to the demand for skilled therapists to manage complex respiratory conditions.
Exam Information
The Certified Respiratory Therapist exam assesses foundational knowledge and skills in respiratory care. Candidates face a written test structured around multiple-choice questions, focusing on real-world scenarios. Preparation involves reviewing core respiratory care concepts and practicing with sample questions.
Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) Examination
Administered by National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) • Fee: $190
Career Advancement Paths
Industry Insights
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
Certified Respiratory Therapists Face Modest Growth Amidst AI Integration
Current Employment
3,391,000
Projected
3,557,100
Growth Rate
+4.9%
New Positions
166,100
What's Driving Demand
The slight growth in respiratory therapist employment reflects an ongoing need driven by an aging society and increasing chronic respiratory conditions. Technological advancements in healthcare support this growth but do not drastically alter employment figures.
The field of respiratory therapy is set to see a modest employment increase from 457,300 in 2024 to 467,200 by 2034, reflecting a growth rate of 2.2%. This growth, while steady, is not particularly robust, suggesting a steady demand rather than a sharp increase. As AI and automation continue to evolve, the impact on this profession appears moderate, with technology primed to enhance rather than replace human skills in areas such as monitoring and quality control. Demographic trends, particularly an aging population, alongside policy changes in healthcare, will likely influence the demand for respiratory therapists. For those considering entering this field, adapting to AI-enhanced tools early could provide a significant competitive advantage, balancing out the relatively low median annual wage of $51,000.
Long-Term Outlook
AI & Automation
low disruption riskAI's role in respiratory therapy is more about augmentation than replacement. Tools like predictive analytics and monitoring software will enhance the efficiency and accuracy of therapists but are unlikely to replace human judgment and personalized patient care.
Ongoing, with significant integration expected over the next decade
Demographics
An aging population will boost demand for healthcare services, including respiratory therapy. Chronic conditions that impair respiratory function are more common in older adults, increasing the need for specialized respiratory care.
Key factor: Aging population
Policy & Regulation
Regulatory changes, particularly around Medicare and Medicaid, could expand or limit the scope of practice for respiratory therapists. These policies will directly affect job demand and service reimbursement rates.
Industry Shifts
Healthcare is moving towards more integrated care models and home-based settings, which may open new roles for respiratory therapists in managing care remotely or in patients' homes.
Top Skills
Quality Control Analysis
53/100Monitoring
50/100Critical Thinking
47/100Bottom Line
Certified Respiratory Therapists should embrace AI tools to remain competitive and effective in a field where technology complements critical human skills.
State-by-State Variations
Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) requirements differ significantly across states, reflecting variations in licensing criteria, continuing education requirements, and scope of practice regulations.
Most Strict
Most Accessible
Renewal Requirements
Certified Respiratory Therapists must renew their certification every two years to ensure they remain knowledgeable about current practices and technologies in respiratory care. Renewal includes continuing education credits and a fee, maintaining the quality and safety standards of the profession.
Renewal Period
every 2 years
Renewal Cost
$150
CE Hours
30 hours
CE Topics: Patient Care Management, Respiratory Health and Safety
Late renewal incurs additional fees and may require extra continuing education credits.
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Recommended Resources
Certified Respiratory Therapist Exam Prep Practice Test
Practice questions for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) Examination exam.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Study Guide
Comprehensive study guide covering all Certified Respiratory Therapist exam topics.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Certification All-in-One
Everything you need to prepare for Certified Respiratory Therapist certification.
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