Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Illinois
Becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Illinois involves a structured process, including 1200 hours of state-approved training split equally between classroom and clinical settings, passing a competency exam, and fulfilling state certification requirements. The entire process can cost between $800 and $2,500 and takes approximately 4 to 20 weeks depending on the study mode.
The career of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Illinois is marked by a promising job outlook and rewarding salary prospects. In Illinois, the median salary for CRTs stands at $78,980 per year, aligning with a national trend that sees a projected growth of 12.1% in this field by 2034. This growth is fueled by an aging population, increased prevalence of respiratory conditions, and the ongoing advancements in treatment technologies. These factors combine to make a career in respiratory therapy a stable and lucrative option for those interested in the healthcare sector.
Illinois presents a unique environment for respiratory therapists due to its specific state regulations and diverse healthcare settings. The state mandates licensure for all respiratory therapists, ensuring that only qualified individuals practice. Illinois' major cities like Chicago, home to numerous high-ranking hospitals and healthcare facilities, offer abundant employment opportunities. Additionally, the state's varied demographic and climatic conditions contribute to a wide range of respiratory health challenges, thus increasing the demand for skilled respiratory therapists.
This guide provides an in-depth look at the pathway to becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Illinois. Readers will learn about the necessary educational requirements, the process of obtaining a state license, and the steps to achieve certification. The guide also covers detailed salary data and insights into the job market, helping prospective CRTs make informed decisions about their careers. By detailing these aspects, the guide aims to equip readers with all the necessary information to pursue a successful career as a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Illinois.
Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
In Illinois, Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) must meet specific licensing requirements managed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The process includes education, examinations, and background checks.
Official Resources
Illinois Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Associate's degree in Respiratory Care from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) or equivalent.
- Total Training Hours
- 1200 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 600 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 600 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Proof of legal U.S. residency or work authorization
Certification Exam
- Exam
- National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- USD 190
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Illinois
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $75, textbooks/supplies $50, scrubs $25
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Illinois's Prerequisites
Begin by confirming your eligibility to become a CRT in Illinois. You need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be free from communicable diseases as evidenced by a recent health screening. Visit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) website to access detailed requirements and necessary forms. Processing times for initial inquiries 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
Schedule a fingerprint-based background check through an Illinois-approved LiveScan vendor. You can find a list of vendors and their locations on the Illinois State Police website. Expect results within 1-3 weeks. Concurrently, complete a TB test and other health screenings at a local clinic. Document any disqualifications, such as criminal history, and apply for a waiver if necessary.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early in the morning to avoid long wait times.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved CRT training program by visiting the IDFPR website. Only programs listed there are recognized for certification purposes. Attending a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the certification exam. Programs typically offer both full-time and part-time options. Ensure the program you choose offers 600 classroom hours and 600 clinical hours as required.
Tip
Contact multiple programs to compare costs, schedules, and pass rates before enrolling.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have chosen an approved program, complete the enrollment process which may include interviews, entrance exams, and financial arrangements. The program will consist of 600 hours of classroom learning and 600 hours of clinical experience. Make sure to receive documentation certifying your completion of the program, which is required for the certification application.
Tip
Keep a personal log of your clinical hours in case of discrepancies with official records.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
After completing your training, prepare for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) CRT exam. The exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions covering patient data evaluation, equipment manipulation, infection control, and more. You have three hours to complete it. Utilize study guides and practice exams available on the NBRC website to ensure readiness.
Tip
Focus your studies on areas of weakness identified during your training program's mock exams.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the CRT exam through the NBRC website. You will need to provide proof of your educational completion and pay an exam fee of $200. After registration, you can schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. You can choose a date and location convenient for you, but it's advisable to schedule as soon as possible to secure your preferred slot.
Tip
Check for available testing slots prior to registration to better plan your schedule.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive early at the Pearson VUE center with two forms of ID. The CRT exam is computer-based and lasts three hours. If you fail, you can reschedule after 60 days and pay the exam fee again. Passing the exam is crucial as it qualifies you for state certification.
Tip
Ensure all personal information on your ID matches the registration details to avoid issues on test day.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your CRT certification through the IDFPR. You need to submit your exam results, proof of training completion, and a $75 application fee. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Upon approval, your certification will be posted on the Illinois state registry website.
Tip
Double-check your application for completeness to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is approved, you will receive your CRT certification via mail. Verify your certification status on the IDFPR website to ensure it is correctly listed in the state registry. This verification is often required by employers before you can begin working.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the IDFPR website for updates on your certification status.
Find Your First Job
With your CRT certification in hand, begin your job search. Utilize online job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized healthcare job portals. Consider also networking within local hospitals and clinics. Prepare your resume to highlight your certification, training, and any relevant experience. Be ready to discuss your training and certification process during interviews.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each job application to better align with the job requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Illinois 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 at least 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: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The CRT certification does not include a practical skills test.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport)
- ✓ NBRC Confirmation Notice
- ✓ Two number 2 pencils
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. No scheduled breaks.
Getting Your Results
Scores are available immediately after the exam on the computer screen. 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. Illinois allows unlimited attempts.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Prioritize studying the major topic areas by their percentage of the exam focus, especially interventions which account for 60%.
- 2. Practice time management by allocating approximately 1 minute per question to ensure completion.
- 3. Read each question carefully to identify key words that indicate the focus of the question before selecting an answer.
- 4. Use process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previous educational institutions or relevant state department · Varies (typically no cost for original, small fee for copies) · 1-4 weeks
Required for admission into accredited respiratory therapy programs
Criminal Background Check
Illinois State Police or approved third-party vendor · Approximately $50 · 2-3 weeks
Necessary for enrollment in clinical training components
Proof of Immunizations
Personal physician or local health department · Varies (depends on insurance and immunization status) · Depends on healthcare provider availability
Typically includes MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tdap
Tuberculosis Test Results
Personal physician or local health department · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Often required annually or biannually by training programs
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or American Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by class availability
Must be a healthcare provider level certification
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the respiratory therapy program's registrar · No cost typically · Immediate to 1 week
Needed for various externships and clinical placements
Clinical Rotation Logs
Provided and maintained through the training program · No cost · Ongoing throughout training
Essential for certification eligibility verification
Liability Insurance Proof
Through the educational institution or a private provider · Varies (often included in program fees) · Immediate upon payment
Required for participation in clinical rotations
3For the Exam
Application for the NBRC CRT Exam
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website · Approximately $190
Must be completed after meeting eligibility requirements from an accredited program
Photo ID
State or federal government (e.g., driver's license or passport) · Varies (cost of obtaining ID)
Needed for identity verification at the testing center
4For Certification
NBRC CRT Credential
Issued by the National Board for Respiratory Care upon passing the exam · Included in exam fee
Official certification required for state licensure application
Illinois Respiratory Care Practitioner License Application
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) website · Approximately $100 application fee
State-specific licensure required to practice
Proof of Continuing Education
From accredited CE providers, tracked after initial certification · Varies by provider
Required for license renewal, specifics depend on state requirements
After You're Certified: What's Next
Immediately after passing the CRT exam, verify your status on the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website. Ensure Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has your updated information for licensing. Obtain a physical copy of your CRT certificate for employment verification.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Monster.com, the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) job board, and hospital websites in Illinois
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private clinics. Hospitals often offer structured training and comprehensive benefits, while private clinics might provide more flexible hours and long-term care facilities could offer a more consistent patient interaction experience.
Resume Tip: Highlight your CRT certification, clinical rotations, and any relevant skills like patient assessment and emergency care. Include soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss your clinical experiences, how you handle stressful situations, and your knowledge of respiratory care protocols. Expect to answer why you chose respiratory therapy and how you stay updated with medical practices.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Illinois, the starting salary for a Certified Respiratory Therapist ranges from $45,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on the employer and location.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Passing the RRT examination after meeting clinical experience requirements
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Handling the emotional and physical stress of the job, managing time effectively during long shifts, and staying current with new treatments and technologies in respiratory care.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in Illinois
Certified Respiratory Therapists in Illinois earn a median salary of $78,980 annually, slightly above the national median. This indicates a competitive pay scale within the state for this profession.
Entry Level
$59,180
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$78,980
$37.97/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$104,480
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · ++1.3% in Illinois
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of CRTs
Lower than state median but competitive
Offers lower median salaries for CRTs
Salary by Employer Type
Illinois offers a median salary for CRTs that slightly exceeds the national average, which is generally adequate to meet the state's cost of living, although variations exist between metro areas.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans. Some employers may offer continuing education credits and flexible schedules.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for CRTs in Illinois is expected to align with national healthcare demand increases, particularly in specialized respiratory care for aging populations.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research current salary trends and benefits for CRTs in Illinois.
- •Highlight unique qualifications and experiences that enhance your value.
Job Market in Illinois
The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) job market in Illinois reflects national trends, with a strong demand driven by an aging population and heightened healthcare needs. The national employment for CRTs is projected to grow from 139,600 in 2024 to 156,400 in 2034, a growth rate of 12.1%. Illinois, with its large urban centers and extensive healthcare systems, likely mirrors or exceeds this growth rate due to demographic trends and regional health challenges.
Top Hiring Areas
Major healthcare centers and population density drive demand.
State capital with stable healthcare employment but smaller population base.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with budget cycles in major healthcare institutions
Opportunities
- Advancements in respiratory technology
- Expansion of roles in telemedicine and home health care
Challenges
- Shortage of qualified CRTs in rural areas
- Rising demand outpacing training capacities
Training Programs in Illinois
Illinois offers multiple 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 | $6,000 - $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 - 24 months | $20,000 - $30,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Chicago, Illinois
High exam pass rates and strong local hospital partnerships
Online & Hybrid Options
Some programs offer hybrid formats, combining online theory classes with in-person clinical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Check graduation and job placement rates to gauge program effectiveness.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for Illinois
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
USD 50
CE Hours
24 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Clinical practice updates, Patient safety
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Illinois offers reciprocity for CRTs licensed in other states, provided they meet Illinois standards and have passed the NBRC exam.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current out-of-state CRT license
- Proof of NBRC exam passage
State Agreements
All states, as long as the CRT meets Illinois standards
Additional Exams
No additional exams required if NBRC exam was passed
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement along with verification of out-of-state licensure and exam scores.
Fees
USD 100
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, especially proof of education and exam scores, are ready before applying to streamline the process.
Stay updated on continuing education requirements to avoid delays in renewal.
Recommended Resources
Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy Exam Preparation Guide
Offers a detailed review and practice exams similar to those on the CRT exam, covering key respiratory therapy topics.
Respiratory Care Exam Review: Review for the Entry Level and Advanced Exams
Provides practice questions and simulations for both the CRT and RRT exams, with explanations for each answer.
The Comprehensive Respiratory Therapist's Exam Review
Covers all essential content areas for the CRT exam, including detailed study guides and self-assessment sections.
Respiratory Therapy Exam Review
Focuses on core topics and offers test-taking strategies specific to the CRT certification process.
Stethoscope
Used for assessing lung sounds and heart rate, crucial for practical respiratory therapy training.
Pulse Oximeter
Essential for monitoring oxygen saturation and heart rate during respiratory therapy practice sessions.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Illinois Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13