Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Idaho
This guide details the steps to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Idaho, spanning from meeting initial prerequisites to finding your first job. The process typically takes 8-12 weeks and costs between $800 and $2,500. Key steps include verifying prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the national competency exam, and obtaining state certification.
In Idaho, the role of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) presents a promising career path, underscored by a median annual salary of $69,400 and a substantial projected job growth of 12.1% by 2034. With 139,600 respiratory therapists nationwide, the demand in Idaho is driven by an increasing need for healthcare services, especially in respiratory care amidst aging populations and respiratory ailments. This growth indicates not only job security but also opportunities for advancement and specialization within the field, making it a sound career choice for those interested in the healthcare sector.
Idaho offers a unique setting for respiratory therapists. State-specific licensing requirements ensure that practitioners meet local standards, with information available from two main sources. The healthcare environment in Idaho is diverse, ranging from urban hospitals in cities like Boise to rural clinics throughout the state, providing varied work settings and experiences. Major healthcare employers in Idaho include both public and private facilities that demand skilled CRTs to handle everything from routine care to emergency respiratory situations, influenced by regional health issues prevalent in the state.
This guide provides a detailed roadmap for becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Idaho. Readers will find specific steps on obtaining licensure, including educational requirements, examination processes, and maintaining certification. Detailed salary analysis adjusted for Idaho's cost of living and job market trends will help prospective CRTs understand what to expect financially. Additionally, insights into Idaho's major healthcare employers will aid in strategic career planning. By laying out these elements, the guide aims to equip readers with the necessary tools to pursue a successful career as a CRT in Idaho.
Licensing Authority
Idaho State Board of Medicine
In Idaho, Certified Respiratory Therapists must be licensed through the Idaho State Board of Medicine. This includes completing an approved educational program, passing national exams, and meeting additional state-specific requirements.
Official Resources
Idaho Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Completion of a board-approved Respiratory Care program
- 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
- Two certificates of professional recommendation
Certification Exam
- Exam
- National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) Exam
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Not specified
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Idaho
tuition $500-$2,000, 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–$2,500
Verify You Meet Idaho's Prerequisites
Before pursuing certification, ensure you meet Idaho's prerequisites for respiratory therapists. These include being at least 18 years old, holding a high school diploma or GED, and having no disqualifying criminal history. Visit the Idaho Board of Respiratory Care website to download the checklist of prerequisites and verify your eligibility. Processing times are typically 1-2 days.
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
Obtain a background check through the Idaho State Police and complete required health screenings, including a TB test and possibly a drug screening. Schedule your fingerprinting appointment via the Idaho State Police website and submit the necessary forms. Results typically take 2-3 weeks. Disqualifying criminal history includes felonies related to drug distribution or violence.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays in processing your application.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved respiratory therapy training program in Idaho. Approved programs meet specific curriculum standards necessary for certification. Attending a non-approved program will prevent you from sitting for the licensing exam. Visit the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) to find accredited programs in Idaho. Typical program duration is 6-12 months.
Tip
Check multiple programs for specifics like cost, location, and schedule to find the best fit for your needs.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Healthcare Facilities
Some hospitals and healthcare facilities in Idaho offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring respiratory therapists. These programs typically cover tuition in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after certification. This path is ideal for those who can secure a position and meet the employer's requirements.
Best for: Individuals seeking financial assistance and job security post-certification
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Idaho 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: Scaled score of 70
- • 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: None
Time Per Skill: N/A
The CRT exam does not include a practical skills component.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID
- ✓ NBRC confirmation notice
- ✓ Two number 2 pencils
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal electronic devices, including cell phones
- ✗ Notes or books
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours. No scheduled breaks.
Getting Your Results
Results are available immediately after the exam on the testing 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 exam fee. Unlimited attempts are allowed.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on the major topics with higher percentage values, as they contribute more to the overall score.
- 2. Practice time management by allocating approximately 1 minute per question to ensure completion within the allotted time.
- 3. Read each question carefully, especially the ones that provide patient scenarios, to ensure understanding of what is being asked.
- 4. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down the most likely correct answer.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institutions · Varies (usually a small fee for official transcripts) · 1-2 weeks
Required to enroll in a respiratory therapy program
Immunization Records
Personal medical records or doctor's office · May be free, but costs for missing vaccines apply · Depends on healthcare provider
Ensure all vaccinations are current, including MMR, Varicella, and Hepatitis B
Tuberculosis (TB) Test
Local clinic or health department · Approximately $20-$50 · Usually within 48-72 hours for results
Some programs require a yearly TB test
Background Check
Third-party services or through the training program · Approximately $50-$100 · 1-2 weeks
Required for enrollment in most accredited programs
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by class availability
Must be healthcare provider level
2During Training
Transcripts
From the respiratory therapy program · Varies (usually a small fee for official transcripts) · 1-2 weeks
Needed for certification application
Clinical Rotation Documentation
From the respiratory therapy program · No additional cost · At end of each rotation
Proof of completed clinical hours required for certification
Program Completion Certificate
From the respiratory therapy program · Included in program fees · At graduation
Required to sit for the CRT exam
3For the Exam
Exam Application
NBRC (National Board for Respiratory Care) website · Approximately $190
Application must be completed to schedule the CRT exam
Identification
Government-issued ID (e.g., driver's license, passport) · No additional cost unless renewal is needed
Needed for exam admission
4For Certification
CRT Exam Results
From NBRC, post-exam · Included in exam fee
Official results needed for state certification
Idaho State Respiratory Care License Application
Idaho Board of Medicine website · Approximately $100 application fee
Required to practice as a CRT in Idaho
Proof of Legal Presence
Government-issued birth certificate, passport, or similar · No additional cost unless documents need to be obtained
Needed for state license 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 from the Idaho Board of Respiratory Care. Update your CPR certification if necessary.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Idaho hospital career pages, Indeed.com, LinkedIn, and the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) job board
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. Hospitals often offer rotational shifts and exposure to diverse respiratory conditions, while long-term care focuses on chronic management and home health offers flexible scheduling and one-on-one patient care.
Resume Tip: Highlight your CRT certification, clinical rotations, and any relevant skills such as patient assessment and emergency care. Include soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss your clinical experience, how you handle stressful situations, and why you chose respiratory therapy. Be ready to demonstrate knowledge of respiratory equipment and patient care techniques.
Expected First-Year Salary
A new Certified Respiratory Therapist in Idaho can expect a salary range of $45,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on the employer and location within the state.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Passing the RRT examination after meeting the experience requirements
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adjusting to shift work, managing emotional stress from patient care, and staying updated with continuous medical education. Effective time management and seeking support from more experienced colleagues can help mitigate these challenges.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in Idaho
In Idaho, Certified Respiratory Therapists earn a median annual salary of $69,400, which is lower than the national median. This reflects a regional variance in wage scales.
Entry Level
$59,180
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$69,400
$33.37/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$85,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · -11.0% in Idaho
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of CRTs in Idaho
Competitive despite smaller population
Salary by Employer Type
Idaho's lower cost of living may offset the lower salaries compared to the national average.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.
Salary Growth Outlook
Moderate growth expected, driven by healthcare demand and population aging.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for similar roles in Idaho
- •Highlight specialized skills or certifications
Job Market in Idaho
The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) job market in Idaho shows a unique trend compared to the national growth rate of 12.1% from 2024 to 2034. With Idaho's aging population and rural healthcare needs, demand for respiratory therapists is expected to increase, potentially outpacing the national average. The state's focus on improving healthcare access in rural areas acts as a primary driver of this demand.
Top Hiring Areas
Major hospitals and healthcare centers
Growing healthcare services in northern Idaho
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with fiscal hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Expansion in telehealth services
- Specialization in pediatric and elderly care
Challenges
- Recruitment in rural areas
- Keeping pace with technological advancements in respiratory care
Training Programs in Idaho
Idaho offers several pathways for training as a Certified Respiratory Therapist, including community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $10,000 - $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18-24 months | $15,000 - $25,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Lewiston, Idaho
High exam pass rates and strong clinical partnerships
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats with online coursework and in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status and exam pass rates.
- •Consider program costs and available financial aid options.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for Idaho
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Annually or bi-annually
Renewal Fee
Not specified
CE Hours
Not specified hours
Work requirement: Not specified
CE Topics: Not specified
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Idaho offers reciprocity for respiratory therapists licensed in other states, subject to verification of credentials and possibly additional requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Verification of out-of-state license
- Compliance with Idaho's standards
State Agreements
Not specified
Additional Exams
Possible, depending on state of original licensure
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, including all required documents and fees.
Fees
Not specified
Processing Time: Not specified
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents and recommendations are up to date when applying.
Check the Idaho State Board of Medicine website regularly for updates on licensing requirements and fees.
Recommended Resources
Kettering National Seminars CRT Review
This review provides practice exams and detailed answers to prepare for the CRT exam.
LindseyJones CRT RRT Test Prep
Offers simulation software and practice questions that mirror the actual CRT exam format.
Respiratory Care Exam Review by Gary Persing
This guide focuses on core topics in respiratory care, with practice questions and exam tips.
Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy Exam Preparation Guide by Craig L. Scanlan
Covers a broad range of topics for the CRT exam, including test-taking strategies and review sections.
Stethoscope
Essential for assessing respiratory and cardiac function during training.
Pulse Oximeter
Used to monitor oxygen saturation levels, a fundamental skill in respiratory therapy.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Idaho Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13