Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Hawaii
Becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Hawaii involves several steps, including completing a state-approved training program, passing a competency exam, and registering with the state board. The total path can take anywhere from 8 to 20 weeks depending on the mode of study, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500.
The career of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Hawaii offers promising prospects, with a healthy demand and substantial rewards. In Hawaii, the median salary for this role is $90,860 per year, significantly higher than in many other states. The national workforce for CRTs stands at 139,600, with an expected growth rate of 12.1% by 2034. These figures indicate a robust job market for respiratory therapists in Hawaii, making it an attractive career choice for those interested in the healthcare field.
Hawaii presents a unique environment for respiratory therapists due to its specific state regulations and geographic factors. The state requires licensing for respiratory therapists, ensuring that practitioners meet certain standards of professionalism and competence. Hawaii's diverse population and its distinct health challenges, such as higher rates of respiratory issues due to volcanic smog (vog), create specific demands for respiratory care. Major healthcare providers like The Queen's Health Systems and Hawaii Pacific Health are significant employers in the region, offering various opportunities for CRTs.
This guide will provide detailed information on how to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Hawaii. Readers will learn about the licensing requirements, including the necessary steps to obtain certification and the sources from which to get licensing data. The guide will also cover salary expectations across different regions in Hawaii and insights into the job market for CRTs. By providing these details, the guide aims to equip prospective respiratory therapists with the knowledge needed to pursue their careers in this rewarding field.
Licensing Authority
Hawaii State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs, Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, Respiratory Therapist Program
In Hawaii, to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT), applicants must meet specific age, citizenship, and educational criteria, pass a national certification exam, and pay relevant fees. Licensing is managed by the Hawaii State Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs.
Official Resources
Hawaii Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Degree required
- Total Training Hours
- Not specified hours
- Classroom Hours
- Not specified hours
- Clinical Hours
- Not specified hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- U.S. citizenship or work authorization
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Certified Respiratory Therapist exam (CRT)
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Not specified
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Hawaii
tuition $500-$2000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $25, textbooks/supplies $25, scrubs $0-$200
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2500
Verify You Meet Hawaii's Prerequisites
Before beginning your journey to become a CRT, 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. Visit the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs' Professional and Vocational Licensing (PVL) to check detailed requirements. Gather your high school diploma, a government-issued ID, and health clearance documents.
Tip
Keep digital and physical copies of all your documents for easy submission.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Obtain a Hawaii state police background check and complete necessary health screenings, including a TB test and possibly a drug screening. Schedule an appointment with a local police department for fingerprinting. Visit the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center online to start your background check application. Results typically take 2-4 weeks. Disqualifying crimes include felonies related to medical practice.
Tip
Schedule your health screenings while waiting for your background check to save time.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved respiratory therapist training program in Hawaii. Programs not approved by the state board will not qualify you to take the certification exam. Visit the Hawaii State Board of Respiratory Care website to find a list of approved programs. Ensure the program covers the required classroom and clinical hours as specified by state regulations.
Tip
Contact programs directly to ask about class schedules and financial aid opportunities.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Enroll in your chosen approved program. Complete the required classroom and clinical hours. Classroom learning will cover respiratory care theory and practice, while clinical hours provide hands-on experience under supervision. Keep records of your attendance and performance as these will be required when applying for the CRT exam and state certification.
Tip
Ensure you receive a certificate of completion or similar document from your training program.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) CRT exam. This exam tests knowledge and skills in respiratory care. It includes 160 multiple-choice questions with a three-hour time limit. Study materials and practice exams are available on the NBRC website. Understanding the exam format and practicing with sample questions can greatly improve your chances of passing.
Tip
Focus on areas of weakness indicated by practice exam results to improve efficiently.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the CRT exam through the NBRC website. Choose a test date and location that fits your schedule. The exam fee is $200. After registration, you will receive an Authorization to Test letter, which you must bring to the testing center along with two forms of ID. Testing centers in Hawaii can be located via the NBRC website.
Tip
Register for the exam as soon as you feel prepared to avoid delays in testing availability.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the testing center early with your Authorization to Test letter and IDs. The CRT exam is computer-based and lasts three hours. If you fail, you can reschedule after 60 days for an additional fee. Passing the exam is crucial as it is required for state certification.
Tip
Get 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 with the Hawaii State Board of Respiratory Care. Submit your exam results, proof of training completion, and any other required documents. The application fee is $25. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your name will be added to the state registry of Certified Respiratory Therapists.
Tip
Double-check your application for any missing information to avoid 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 status on the Hawaii State Board of Respiratory Care's online registry. This certification is essential for employment as it validates your qualifications to employers and is required by state law for practicing respiratory therapists.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry to confirm your certification status.
Find Your First Job
With your certification in hand, you can now apply for positions as a Certified Respiratory Therapist. Use job search engines like Indeed or LinkedIn to find opportunities in Hawaii. Additionally, local hospitals and clinics often post job openings on their websites. Prepare your resume to highlight your certification, training, and any relevant experience.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each job application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Hospitals
Some hospitals in Hawaii offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring respiratory therapists. These programs often cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the hospital for a specified period after certification. This path can reduce education costs and secure immediate employment post-certification.
Best for: Individuals seeking to minimize upfront education costs and secure immediate employment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Hawaii 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: Pass/fail determined by scaled score
- • Patient Data Evaluation and Recommendations: 25%
- • Troubleshooting and Quality Control of Equipment and Infection Control: 25%
- • Initiation and Modification of Interventions: 50%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: N/A
Time Per Skill: N/A
N/A
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- ✓ NBRC confirmation letter
- ✓ Simple analog watch (no smartwatches allowed)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal belongings (bags, purses)
- ✗ Electronic devices (phones, calculators)
- ✗ Food or drink (except for clear water bottles)
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours. No separate skills test.
Getting Your Results
Results are provided immediately after the exam via the testing center's computer. Official results are mailed within two weeks.
If You Don't Pass
Retake is allowed after 60 days. Cost of retake is the same as the initial test fee. Unlimited attempts are allowed.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, especially the ones that involve patient scenarios, to ensure understanding of what is being asked.
- 2. Manage time efficiently, aiming to answer each question within about 1.5 minutes to allow time for review.
- 3. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. Focus on major topic areas more heavily represented in the exam, such as interventions and patient data evaluation.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
Original issuing institution · Varies (typically $0-$50) · 1-4 weeks
Required for admission into respiratory therapy programs
Official Transcripts
Previous educational institutions · Varies (typically $5-$20 per transcript) · 1-3 weeks
For college or university courses previously taken
Proof of Immunizations
Personal physician or health department · Varies · Depends on health service availability
Includes MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Influenza, and COVID-19
TB Test Results
Healthcare provider · Approx. $20-$100 · 1-3 days
Must be recent, typically within the last year
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approx. $50-$100
Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers is required
Background Check
Third-party service or school-provided service · Approx. $50-$100 · 1-2 weeks
Required by most respiratory therapy programs for clinical placement
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
Respiratory therapy program office · Usually free · Immediate to 1 week
Needed for various administrative purposes during training
Clinical Rotation Assignments
Program coordinator · None · Varies by program schedule
Document detailing clinical placement locations and durations
Liability Insurance Proof
Insurance provider or school program · Varies (typically included in tuition or fees) · Immediate to 1 week
Required for participation in clinical rotations
3For the Exam
NBRC CRT Exam Application
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website · Exam fee approx. $190
Application must be completed to sit for the CRT exam
Eligibility Confirmation from School
Respiratory therapy program office · Usually free
Confirms completion of an accredited program
Government-Issued Photo ID
State or federal government · Varies
Needed for identification on the day of the exam
4For Certification
CRT Credential
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) · Included in exam fee
Issued upon passing the CRT exam
State License Application
Hawaii Professional and Vocational Licensing Division · License fee approx. $100
Required to legally practice in Hawaii
Proof of Passing the CRT Exam
NBRC · Usually free, fee for additional copies
Needed for state licensure application
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your certification status on the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website. Obtain a copy of your CRT certificate. Ensure your license application with the Hawaii State Department of Health is in process or completed.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed, Glassdoor, HealthJobsNationwide.com, and the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) job board specifically for Hawaii
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. Hospitals offer a variety of cases and typically have higher staffing needs. Long-term care facilities may provide more stable hours but potentially less diverse experience. Home health agencies offer flexibility and one-on-one patient interaction.
Resume Tip: Highlight your clinical rotations, any special projects or research during your schooling, and specific respiratory care skills. Include soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Describe a challenging patient care situation and how you handled it.Explain how you stay updated with the latest respiratory care techniques.Discuss a time you worked effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Hawaii, the starting salary for a CRT ranges from $50,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on the employer and location within the state.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Passing the RRT examination after meeting clinical experience requirements
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adjusting to the emotional demands of patient care, managing time effectively during busy shifts, and staying current with continuous medical education.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in Hawaii
Certified Respiratory Therapists in Hawaii earn a median salary of $90,860 per year, significantly higher than the national median. The cost of living and demand for healthcare services in the state are factors influencing these wages.
Entry Level
$65,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$90,860
$43.68/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$105,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · ++16.5% in Hawaii
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of CRTs in Hawaii.
Salary by Employer Type
Although salaries for CRTs in Hawaii are above national averages, the state's high cost of living may offset these higher wages, affecting overall purchasing power.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid vacations, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Projected steady growth in salary due to increasing demand for respiratory care, particularly for the elderly population.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight specialized skills or certifications.
- •Research typical salaries for the area and role.
Job Market in Hawaii
In Hawaii, the job market for Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) is influenced by the state's unique healthcare needs and demographic trends. Despite the national employment growth rate of 12.1% for CRTs from 2024 to 2034, Hawaii's growth may vary due to its aging population and high tourist influx, which can lead to seasonal spikes in healthcare demand. The state's isolated geographic location also impacts the availability and training of healthcare professionals.
Top Hiring Areas
Largest population center with multiple hospitals
Popular tourist destination with seasonal healthcare needs
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring or late fall, aligning with hiring cycles post-tourist seasons
Opportunities
- Expansion of telehealth services
- Specialization in sleep disorder treatments
Challenges
- Limited educational and training facilities in-state
- High cost of living impacting retention
Training Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii offers a limited but focused selection of Certified Respiratory Therapist training programs. These programs are primarily available through community colleges and include both classroom learning and clinical experience.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | Approximately $5,000 to $10,000 per year | In-person |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 to 24 months | Approximately $20,000 to $30,000 total | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies, typically 1-2 years | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Honolulu, Hawaii
Well-established program with strong local hospital affiliations
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure eligibility for national certification exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for Hawaii
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Not specified
Renewal Fee
$80
CE Hours
None
Work requirement: Not specified
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Hawaii allows reciprocity for Certified Respiratory Therapists from other states, subject to verification of credentials and possibly additional requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Verification of active and valid out-of-state license
- Compliance with Hawaii's state-specific requirements
State Agreements
Not specified
Additional Exams
Possible depending on the state
Application Process
Submit an application along with proof of out-of-state licensure and any other required documentation.
Fees
Not specified
Processing Time: Not specified
Licensing Tips
Ensure all personal information and required documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Stay updated with Hawaii's licensing requirements as they may change.
Recommended Resources
Respiratory Care Exam Review
Provides a detailed overview and practice questions similar to those on the CRT exam, focusing on assessment and management.
LindseyJones CRT RRT Test Prep
Online simulations and practice exams that replicate the actual CRT test format, including timed tests.
Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy Exam Preparation Guide
Covers all essential content areas for the CRT exam, with practice questions and exam-taking strategies.
The Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Care Pocket Guide
Specifically useful for those looking to enhance their knowledge in neonatal and pediatric care for the CRT exams.
3M Littmann Classic III Monitoring Stethoscope
Necessary for auscultation training and practice, a fundamental skill for respiratory therapists.
Pulse Oximeter
Used to monitor oxygen saturation, a critical parameter for respiratory therapy, during training sessions.
As an Amazon Associate, CredentialGuide earns from qualifying purchases.
Stay Updated
Get notified when Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) requirements change in your state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Find Certified Respiratory Therapist Programs in Hawaii
Get free program information sent to your inbox
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities in Hawaii.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Hawaii Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13