Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Delaware
This guide details the steps to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Delaware, from meeting prerequisites to finding your first job. The process typically takes 8-12 weeks and costs between $800 and $2,500, covering training, exams, and certification.
In Delaware, the career of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) is marked by a promising job outlook and competitive salary, making it an appealing choice for those interested in the healthcare field. The median salary for CRTs in Delaware stands at $83,820 per year, which is compelling when compared to many other healthcare roles. Additionally, the national projection indicates a growth of 12.1% in this field by 2034, signaling strong future demand for respiratory therapists. This growth is driven by an aging population, increasing respiratory ailments, and the expanding scope of respiratory therapy in treating a variety of conditions.
Delaware offers a unique environment for respiratory therapists due to its specific state regulations and the structure of its healthcare system. The state mandates licensure for all respiratory therapists, ensuring that all practitioners meet uniform standards of professional competency. Delaware's healthcare system is anchored by several major hospitals and clinics that serve as major employers for respiratory therapists, including Christiana Care and Nemours Children's Health System. These institutions not only provide stable employment opportunities but also environments conducive to professional growth and specialization in respiratory care.
This guide provides a detailed roadmap for becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Delaware, covering all necessary steps from education to licensure. Readers will find specific information on accredited educational programs in Delaware, requirements for state licensure, and the examination process. Additionally, the guide offers insights into salary expectations and tips for navigating the local job market. By laying out these steps clearly, the guide aims to equip prospective respiratory therapists with the knowledge to successfully enter this rewarding career field in Delaware.
Licensing Authority
Delaware Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline
In Delaware, Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) must be licensed by the Delaware Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline. The process includes education, exams, and a background check.
Official Resources
Delaware Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Completion of an accredited respiratory care program
- Total Training Hours
- 120 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 80 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 40 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of legal U.S. residency
Certification Exam
- Exam
- National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) CRT Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies by testing location
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Delaware
tuition $500-$1,500, exam fee $200, background check $75, application fee $40, textbooks/supplies $50, scrubs $35
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Delaware's Prerequisites
Before beginning your path to becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Delaware, confirm you meet the basic prerequisites. These include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, and being in good physical health as evidenced by a recent TB test. Visit the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation's website to download the necessary checklist and forms.
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
Schedule a fingerprint-based background check through the Delaware State Police. This can be done by visiting their website and booking an appointment for fingerprinting. You will also need to complete a health screening, including a TB test, if not done recently. Background checks may take up to 4 weeks to process, so plan accordingly.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting as early as possible to avoid delays in processing.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved training program for respiratory therapy in Delaware. Visit the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation's website to access a list of approved programs. Choosing a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the certification exam, wasting both time and money. Ensure the program offers 80 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours, totaling 120 hours of training.
Tip
Check for additional accreditation such as from the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) to ensure quality education.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have selected an approved program, enroll and complete the required 120 hours of training, consisting of 80 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours. These programs are typically offered by community colleges or technical schools. Completion times can vary, but most programs are designed to be completed within a few months if attending full-time.
Tip
Ensure that the program's schedule fits your availability, considering part-time options if necessary.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam by reviewing the study materials and practice exams available on the NBRC website. The exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions covering topics learned during your training. You have three hours to complete the exam, and a passing score is required to move forward.
Tip
Focus on areas where practice exam scores are lower to improve your chances of passing the actual exam.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the CRT exam through the NBRC website. After registration, you will receive information on scheduling your exam at a local testing center, typically operated by Pearson VUE. It is advisable to schedule your exam soon after completing your training to ensure all knowledge is fresh.
Tip
Choose a testing date that gives you ample time for last-minute review but is close enough to capitalize on the momentum of your training.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the testing center early with two forms of ID and your exam confirmation. The CRT exam is computer-based and lasts three hours, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. If you fail the exam, you can schedule a retake; however, reviewing what areas need improvement before reattempting is crucial.
Tip
Ensure a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your CRT certification through the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation. This involves submitting proof of your passing score, completed training, and background check. The processing time can take up to 4 weeks. Once approved, your certification will appear in the Delaware state registry.
Tip
Double-check all documents for accuracy before submitting to avoid any processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your CRT certification via mail. Verify your certification status on the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation's online registry. This official recognition is crucial for legally practicing as a Respiratory Therapist in Delaware.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry for updates on your certification status.
Find Your First Job
With your certification in hand, start your job search. Utilize online job portals like Indeed or LinkedIn to find openings for Certified Respiratory Therapists in Delaware. Networking with professionals you met during your clinical hours can also provide job leads. Prepare for interviews by reviewing common industry questions and highlighting your training and certification.
Tip
Tailor your resume to highlight specific skills and experiences that align with the job descriptions you are applying for.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Hospitals
Some hospitals in Delaware offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring Respiratory Therapists. These programs sometimes cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the hospital for a specified period after certification.
Best for: Individuals looking to secure immediate employment post-certification
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Delaware 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: 160
Time Limit: 3 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: Pass/fail based on scaled scoring system
- • Patient Data Evaluation and Recommendations: 20%
- • Troubleshooting and Quality Control of Equipment, and Infection Control: 20%
- • Initiation and Modification of Interventions: 60%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The CRT does not include a practical skills test; it is solely a written examination.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter (ATT)
- ✓ Simple calculator (if preferred, check with the testing center)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as bags, watches, phones, or other electronic devices
- ✗ Food or drink
- ✗ Study materials or notes
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours. There is no break scheduled as there is no skills test.
Getting Your Results
Results are typically available within 48 hours via the online portal provided by the NBRC. Candidates will receive an email notification when their results are ready.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail the CRT exam, you can retake it after 60 days. The cost of each retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit to the number of retakes allowed in Delaware.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on mastering patient assessment and intervention topics, as these constitute the majority of the exam.
- 2. Practice time management by allocating approximately 1.1 minutes per question to complete the exam within the allotted time.
- 3. Use elimination methods in multiple-choice questions to narrow down the choices.
- 4. Review equipment troubleshooting as it is a significant part of the exam, despite being a smaller percentage of the content.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previous educational institutions or GED testing service · Varies · 2-4 weeks
Required for admission into respiratory therapy programs
Immunization Records
Primary care provider or previous school · May incur costs for obtaining copies or updating vaccinations · 1-2 weeks
Must include proof of MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and TB test
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or American Red Cross · Approximately $50-100 · Varies by course availability
Must be Healthcare Provider level certification
Background Check
Third-party service or through the educational institution · Approximately $50-100 · 1-2 weeks
Required for enrollment in most respiratory therapy programs
Application for Respiratory Therapy Program
From the educational institution offering the program · Application fees may apply · Immediate upon request
Ensure all sections are completed accurately
2During Training
Transcripts
From the educational institution where training is received · May incur a fee for official transcripts · 1-2 weeks
Required for certification application
Clinical Rotation Documentation
From the educational program's clinical coordinator · No cost · At the end of each rotation
Document hours and competencies achieved
Proof of Liability Insurance
Insurance provider or educational institution · Varies · Varies
Required for participation in clinical rotations
3For the Exam
NBRC Examination Application
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website · Examination fee (varies)
Apply after meeting eligibility requirements from accredited program
Examination Scheduling Permit
Received via email from NBRC after application approval · Included in examination fee
Required to schedule the exam at a testing center
Photo Identification
State or federal government (e.g., driver's license, passport) · Varies
Must be valid and government-issued for entry to testing center
4For Certification
Proof of Passing NBRC CRT Examination
NBRC · Included in exam fees
Official results sent by NBRC, required for state licensure
Delaware Respiratory Care Practitioner License Application
Delaware Division of Professional Regulation website · Licensure fee (varies)
Submit after passing the CRT examination
Fingerprinting and Background Check
Approved provider by Delaware Division of Professional Regulation · Approximately $69
Mandatory for state licensure
Proof of Legal Authorization to Work in the U.S.
Personal records · No cost
Such as a Social Security card or passport
After You're Certified: What's Next
After passing the CRT exam, verify your status on the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website. Contact the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation to ensure your certification is processed and obtain your official certificate.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Monster.com, LinkedIn, and specialty sites like the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) job board
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, emergency care centers, and long-term care facilities. Hospitals often offer structured training programs, while long-term care may provide more consistent schedules but potentially less diverse experience.
Resume Tip: Highlight any clinical rotations or internships, specify your certification, and detail relevant skills such as patient assessment and emergency response.
Interview Tip: Describe a challenging patient scenario and how you handled it.Explain why you chose respiratory therapy.Discuss how you stay updated with new treatments and technologies.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Delaware, entry-level Certified Respiratory Therapists typically earn between $50,000 and $60,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Passing the RRT examination after meeting clinical experience requirements
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adjusting to shift work, managing emotional stress from patient care, and staying current with technology and treatment advancements. Building a supportive network and continuing education can help manage these challenges.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in Delaware
In Delaware, Certified Respiratory Therapists earn a median annual salary of $83,820, which is higher than the national median. This reflects the demand and compensation level for respiratory therapy professionals within the state.
Entry Level
$59,180
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$83,820
$40.3/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$104,480
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · ++7.5% in Delaware
Salary by Metro Area
Major metro area in Delaware
Salary by Employer Type
The salary in Delaware is competitive, considering the state's cost of living, which is slightly above the national average. This balance makes it a financially viable option for many professionals.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth in Delaware is expected to align with national trends, potentially increasing with advancements in healthcare technology and demand for respiratory therapy services.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for Delaware to establish a baseline during negotiations.
- •Highlight relevant experience and special certifications to strengthen your position.
Job Market in Delaware
In Delaware, the job market for Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) is influenced by local healthcare demands and an aging population. While the national employment for CRTs is projected to grow by 12.1% from 2024 to 2034, Delaware's growth may diverge due to specific state healthcare policies and demographic trends. The state's hospitals and clinics, particularly in urban areas, are actively seeking qualified CRTs to address an increase in respiratory ailments.
Top Hiring Areas
Larger population and higher incidence of respiratory issues
State capital with several healthcare facilities
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring or late fall, aligning with fiscal healthcare hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Expansion of telehealth services offering remote employment opportunities
- Potential for policy-driven incentives for specialized respiratory care training
Challenges
- Limited number of training and certification programs in the state
- Competition for CRTs from neighboring states with higher wages
Training Programs in Delaware
Delaware offers several options for those seeking to become Certified Respiratory Therapists, including programs at community colleges and vocational schools.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $4,000 - $10,000 per year | In-person |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 - 24 months | $5,000 - $15,000 total | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Wilmington, Delaware
High exam pass rates and extensive clinical rotations
Online & Hybrid Options
Some Delaware programs offer hybrid formats combining online theory courses with in-person clinical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure eligibility for the CRT national exam.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for Delaware
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$121
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Respiratory care techniques, Patient care ethics
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Delaware offers reciprocity for CRTs licensed in other states, provided they meet Delaware's licensing standards and have no disciplinary actions.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current active license from another state
- No disciplinary actions
State Agreements
All U.S. states as long as conditions are met
Additional Exams
None required
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by reciprocity along with verification of current state licenses and fee.
Fees
Same as initial licensure fee: $209
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all sections of the application are completed fully to avoid delays.
Keep track of continuing education credits to ensure compliance at renewal.
Recommended Resources
Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy Exam Preparation Guide
This guide offers extensive practice questions and detailed explanations, aligning closely with CRT exam content.
Respiratory Care Exam Review
Focuses on simulation exams and targeted review questions to prepare candidates effectively for the CRT exam.
The Comprehensive Respiratory Therapist Exam Review
Covers key topics and offers test-taking strategies, including a mock exam for self-assessment.
Egan's Fundamentals of Respiratory Care
Provides foundational knowledge and clinical practice insights, essential for preparing for the CRT exam.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Used for assessing respiratory and cardiac function during training and exams.
Pulse Oximeter
Essential for monitoring oxygen saturation, a fundamental skill in respiratory therapy practice.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Delaware Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13