Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Arizona
This guide details the steps to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Arizona, focusing on the required 120 hours of training split equally between classroom and clinical settings. The process, typically spanning 8-12 weeks, involves prerequisites verification, state-approved training, exams, and state registration. Costs range from $800 to $2,500, depending on choices regarding training programs and materials.
In Arizona, the career of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) offers significant opportunities due to a robust demand for healthcare professionals specialized in respiratory care. The median annual salary for CRTs in Arizona stands at $74,520, reflecting the critical role these professionals play in healthcare settings. With a national workforce of 139,600 respiratory therapists, projected to grow by 12.1% by 2034, Arizona presents promising career prospects for aspiring CRTs. This growth is driven by an aging population and increasing respiratory ailments, highlighting the stability and necessity of this profession in the state.
Arizona's distinctive regulatory and healthcare environment further enhances the appeal for CRTs. The state's specific licensing requirements ensure that only qualified individuals practice, maintaining high professional standards. Arizona hosts a variety of major healthcare employers, including renowned hospitals and specialized respiratory clinics, which are concentrated in urban areas like Phoenix and Tucson. These regions offer diverse employment opportunities due to their larger populations and advanced medical facilities. Additionally, Arizona's warm, dry climate is beneficial for patients with certain respiratory conditions, potentially increasing the demand for specialized respiratory care.
This guide provides detailed insights into the process of becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Arizona. Readers will learn about the necessary educational qualifications, the steps to obtain state certification, and the continuing education requirements to maintain licensure. The guide also covers salary ranges, with specific attention to regional variations within Arizona, and discusses the job market dynamics, including areas with the highest demand for CRTs. By presenting factual and direct information, this guide aims to equip prospective respiratory therapists with the knowledge needed to successfully enter and thrive in this rewarding field.
Licensing Authority
Arizona Board of Respiratory Care Examiners
In Arizona, Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) must be licensed through the Arizona Board of Respiratory Care Examiners. The process includes completing an accredited program, passing a national exam, and meeting specific state requirements.
Official Resources
Arizona Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Completion of high school or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 120 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 60 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 60 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of legal U.S. residency
Certification Exam
- Exam
- NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- $190
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Arizona
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $0-$200, scrubs $0-$50
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Arizona's Prerequisites
Before pursuing certification, confirm you meet the basic requirements: you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Start by obtaining copies of your high school diploma and any relevant health records. Processing these documents can take up to two weeks if requested by mail.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Arizona requires a fingerprint-based background check and a health screening, including a TB test, to ensure public safety. Schedule your fingerprinting at an authorized location and complete your TB test through a local clinic. Fingerprint results typically take 2-4 weeks to process. Disqualifying criminal records may require additional steps, such as applying for a waiver.
Tip
Schedule fingerprinting early in the process to avoid delays in application processing.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved training program that meets the 120-hour requirement, split equally between classroom and clinical hours. Attending a non-approved program disqualifies you from sitting for the certification exam. Use the official state website to verify program accreditation before enrollment to avoid wasted resources.
Tip
Verify each potential program through the state's official site to ensure it's approved.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Enroll in your chosen state-approved program, completing 60 classroom hours and 60 clinical hours as mandated. Ensure you receive proper documentation upon completion, as this is required for exam registration. The program will likely offer guidance on preparing for the certification exam as part of its curriculum.
Tip
Keep all receipts and documents from your training program for exam registration and future reference.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
After completing your training, begin preparing for the CRT competency exam. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering respiratory care fundamentals. You have 3 hours to complete it. Study materials and practice exams are available through various online platforms. A passing score is 70%.
Tip
Utilize free practice exams available online to familiarize yourself with the exam format and question types.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the CRT exam through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website. You will need to provide proof of your training completion and pay the exam fee. Once registered, you can schedule your exam at a local testing center, administered by Pearson VUE. Exam dates are available throughout the year.
Tip
Schedule your exam for a date that allows ample time for review and preparation.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the designated Pearson VUE center with two forms of ID. The CRT exam is computer-based, consisting of 100 questions to be completed in 3 hours. If you fail, you can reschedule after a 30-day waiting period. Passing the exam is crucial for the next step of certification.
Tip
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to the testing center to complete necessary pre-exam procedures.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your CRT certification through the Arizona State Board of Respiratory Care Examiners. Submit your exam results, proof of training, and any additional required documents. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your certification will appear in the Arizona state registry.
Tip
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your official CRT certification. Verify your status on the Arizona state registry online to ensure your credentials are correctly listed. This verification is often required by employers before you can begin working.
Tip
Regularly check the registry until your information appears to ensure there are no errors.
Find Your First Job
With your certification in hand, begin your job search. Utilize online job boards, hospital websites, and networking within the respiratory care community. Prepare your resume to highlight your newly acquired CRT credentials and any relevant clinical experience from your training.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each job application to better align with the specific requirements and duties of the position.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training Programs
Some healthcare facilities in Arizona offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring respiratory therapists. These programs sometimes cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after certification.
Best for: Individuals looking for financial aid and job security post-certification
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Arizona Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) Examination administered by National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)
Written Test
Questions: 140
Time Limit: 3 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Scaled score of at least 70
- • Patient Data Evaluation and Recommendations: 20%
- • Troubleshooting and Quality Control of Equipment and Infection Control: 22%
- • Initiation and Modification of Interventions: 58%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The CRT certification does not include a skills test component.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- ✓ NBRC confirmation letter with your candidate ID
- ✓ Simple calculator (if preferred, though a digital calculator is provided on the computer)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as mobile phones, bags, or books
- ✗ Food or drink inside the testing room
- ✗ Notes or study materials
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are available immediately after the exam on your testing screen and later accessible through the NBRC online portal. Official results are mailed within two weeks.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail, you can retake the exam after 60 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial test fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes allowed in Arizona.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, especially the ones that include not, except, or least, as they can significantly change the meaning.
- 2. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down your choices.
- 3. Manage your time effectively, aiming to answer each question within about 1 minute and 20 seconds to allow for review.
- 4. Mark questions you are unsure about for review, but make sure to have an answer selected in case time runs out.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institutions or GED testing services · Varies · Varies
Required for admission into respiratory therapy programs
Immunization Records
From personal physician or health department · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Include Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, and TB test
Criminal Background Check
Third-party services or local police department · Approximately $50 · 1-3 weeks
Some programs require this before admission
Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $85 · Varies; typically one-day courses available
Must be current throughout training
2During Training
Official Transcripts
From the respiratory therapy program · Approximately $10 per request · 1-2 weeks
Needed for certification application
Clinical Rotation Documentation
From the respiratory therapy program · No cost · At end of each rotation
Proof of completed clinical hours as required by certification standards
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $85 · Varies; typically one-day courses available
Ensure it remains current throughout training
3For the Exam
NBRC Examination Application
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website · Approximately $190
Submit application for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam
Photo Identification
State or government issued · Varies
Needed for identity verification on the day of the exam
4For Certification
CRT Credential
Issued by NBRC after passing the exam · Included in exam fee
Required to apply for state licensure
State Licensure Application
Arizona State Board of Respiratory Care Examiners · Approximately $300
Must be submitted with proof of CRT credential for state certification
Fingerprint Clearance Card
Arizona Department of Public Safety · Approximately $65
Required for state licensure, processing can take several weeks
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your certification status on the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website. Obtain a physical copy of your CRT certificate from the Arizona Board of Respiratory Care Examiners. Ensure your contact information is updated in their system.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Monster.com, the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) job board, and hospital websites such as Banner Health and Dignity Health
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. Hospitals offer structured environments with opportunities for varied patient care. Long-term care facilities often provide stable hours but may offer less diversity in respiratory cases. Home health positions can offer flexibility and autonomy in patient management.
Resume Tip: Highlight any clinical rotations and specific skills acquired during your training. Include soft skills like communication and teamwork, which are critical in healthcare. Certifications such as Basic Life Support (BLS) should be prominently displayed.
Interview Tip: Describe a challenging patient case and how you managed it.Explain how you handle stressful situations.Discuss your experience with respiratory equipment.Share your understanding of patient safety and infection control protocols.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Arizona, the starting salary for a CRT ranges from $45,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on the employer and location within the state.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Completion of an advanced level exam administered by the NBRC, after gaining experience and possibly additional coursework depending on the educational program.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Handling the emotional and physical stress of the job, managing time effectively in a fast-paced environment, staying updated with the continuous advancements in respiratory technology and treatment methods.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in Arizona
In Arizona, Certified Respiratory Therapists earn a median annual salary of $74,520, which is slightly below the national median. Hourly, this translates to $35.83.
Entry Level
$59,180
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$74,520
$35.83/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$90,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · -4.4% in Arizona
Salary by Metro Area
Highest median salary in the state
Slightly below state median
Salary by Employer Type
Arizona's cost of living is generally lower than the national average, making the CRT salary more competitive in terms of purchasing power.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Projected salary growth aligns with increasing demand for healthcare services and advancements in respiratory care.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight specialized skills and certifications
- •Discuss the impact of your work on patient outcomes
Job Market in Arizona
The job market for Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) in Arizona is expected to grow, influenced by an aging population and increased prevalence of respiratory conditions. With the national CRT employment projected to rise by 12.1% from 2024 to 2034, Arizona's growth is anticipated to align closely with or slightly exceed this rate due to its large retiree community and higher incidences of respiratory issues such as asthma and COPD.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest population center with numerous healthcare facilities.
Growing healthcare sector with several hospitals.
Affluent population with access to specialized healthcare services.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early fall and late spring when hiring cycles typically peak
Opportunities
- Expansion of services in rural and underserved areas
- Integration of telehealth services in respiratory care
Challenges
- Competing with neighboring states with similar or higher demand for CRTs
- Adapting to rapid technological advancements in respiratory treatment
Training Programs in Arizona
Arizona offers a variety of Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored initiatives. These programs prepare students for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) CRT exam.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $4,000 to $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 to 24 months | $5,000 to $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Tucson, Arizona
High pass rates and hands-on training
Phoenix, Arizona
Affordable tuition and comprehensive support services
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats combining online theory with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify program accreditation to ensure eligibility for the CRT exam.
- •Consider program length and cost in relation to personal circumstances and career goals.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for Arizona
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$100
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Respiratory care techniques, Patient care ethics
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Arizona allows reciprocity for respiratory therapists licensed in other states, provided they meet Arizona's standards and have no disciplinary actions.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current valid license from another state
- Proof of equivalent education and examination standards
State Agreements
Arizona does not specify particular states with formal agreements; evaluation is case-by-case.
Additional Exams
No additional exams required if current license and NBRC credentials are in good standing
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement along with required documentation and fees.
Fees
$300
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents submitted for the licensing process are up-to-date and accurately filled out to avoid delays.
Keep track of continuing education credits regularly to ensure compliance at the time of license renewal.
Recommended Resources
Respiratory Care Exam Review
Offers a focused review of the CRT exam with practice questions and detailed answers.
Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy Exam Preparation Guide
Includes a wide range of practice exams and study tools tailored for the CRT certification.
The Comprehensive Respiratory Therapist's Exam Review
Covers all the core topics of respiratory care, including a practice CRT exam.
Perinatal and Pediatric Respiratory Care
Provides specialized knowledge for those focusing on respiratory care for infants and children.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Essential for auscultation training and practice, used widely in clinical settings.
Pulse Oximeter
Necessary for monitoring oxygen saturation, a fundamental skill in respiratory therapy.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Arizona Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13