Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Maryland
This guide outlines the steps to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Maryland, detailing the process from verifying prerequisites to finding your first job. The journey involves specific training, exams, and certification processes, typically taking 8-12 weeks if pursued full-time. Key steps include completing state-approved training, passing the required exams, and obtaining state certification.
The role of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Maryland offers significant opportunities due to a robust demand for healthcare professionals in this field. With a median salary of $83,500 per year, CRTs in Maryland earn substantially, reflecting the critical nature of their work in respiratory care. The national projection indicates a growth of 12.1% by 2034 in this profession, suggesting a stable and expanding job market. This growth is driven by an aging population and an increased prevalence of respiratory conditions, making respiratory therapy a prudent career choice for those interested in a secure and rewarding healthcare career.
Maryland presents a unique environment for Certified Respiratory Therapists due to specific state regulations and a dynamic healthcare sector. The state requires licensure for respiratory therapists, ensuring that professionals meet standardized qualifications. Maryland's major healthcare employers, including renowned hospitals and medical centers, offer various employment opportunities. Regional factors such as high population density in areas like Baltimore and its surroundings also contribute to the higher demand for respiratory care services, influencing employment prospects and potential earnings for CRTs in the state.
This guide provides detailed insights into becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Maryland. Readers will learn about the licensing requirements, including the necessary steps to obtain and maintain certification specific to Maryland. The guide also covers salary expectations, highlighting factors that influence earning potential and job market trends within the state. By outlining the process and requirements, this guide aims to equip prospective CRTs with the knowledge needed to pursue and succeed in this healthcare profession in Maryland.
Licensing Authority
Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene~Board of Respiratory Therapy
In Maryland, Certified Respiratory Therapists must register with the Maryland State Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene's Board of Respiratory Therapy. Licensing includes completing an accredited program, passing a national exam, and meeting background check requirements.
Official Resources
Maryland Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Completion of an accredited respiratory therapy educational program
- 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
- National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist Exam
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Variable
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Maryland
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 Maryland's Prerequisites
Begin by confirming you meet the basic requirements to become a CRT in Maryland. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Gather your high school diploma or GED certificate, and a government-issued photo ID. Visit the Maryland Board of Respiratory Care Examiners website for detailed information on prerequisites and to download any necessary 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 and complete a background check through the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. This will include a fingerprint scan that can be done at authorized LiveScan locations. You must also complete a health screening, which includes a TB test and possibly a drug screening. Check the Maryland Board's website for specific health requirements and approved LiveScan service providers.
Tip
Schedule your LiveScan appointment online to minimize waiting times at the service center.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved training program for respiratory therapy in Maryland. Approved programs meet specific curriculum standards necessary for certification eligibility. Attending a non-approved program will result in ineligibility to sit for the certification exam. Visit the Maryland Higher Education Commission's website to access a list of approved programs and ensure your chosen program meets the 60 classroom and 60 clinical hours requirement.
Tip
Review each program's completion rates and post-graduation employment statistics to choose the best one.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have chosen an approved program, complete the enrollment process, which may include an application form, proof of education, and payment of tuition fees. The training consists of 60 classroom hours and 60 clinical hours. Ensure you attend all sessions and meet all program requirements to be eligible for the certification exam. Check with your program coordinator for any specific attendance policies or graduation requirements.
Tip
Keep a log of your clinical hours in case of discrepancies with the program's records.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Begin preparing for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam. The exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions covering patient assessment, clinical knowledge, and respiratory care practices, with a three-hour time limit. Utilize study guides and practice exams available on the NBRC website. Familiarize yourself with the exam format and content areas to improve your chances of passing.
Tip
Focus your study on areas where practice tests show you are weak.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the CRT exam through the NBRC's online portal. You will need to provide proof of completion of your training program and pay the examination fee. Once registered, you will receive an authorization to test, allowing you to schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. Choose a testing date that gives you ample time for preparation but is soon enough to keep the information fresh.
Tip
Check for available testing dates and locations before registering to ensure your preferred options are available.
Take and Pass the Exam
Arrive at the Pearson VUE testing center on your scheduled exam date with two forms of ID. The CRT exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions to be completed in three hours. If you fail the exam, you can re-register and pay the fee again. Passing the exam is crucial as it is a significant step towards obtaining your CRT certification in Maryland.
Tip
Arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes early to complete necessary pre-exam procedures.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your CRT certification with the Maryland Board of Respiratory Care Examiners. Complete the application form, attach the exam results, and pay the application fee. Processing usually takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your certification will appear in the Maryland Respiratory Care Practitioner Registry, which is publicly accessible for verification by employers.
Tip
Ensure all sections of the application are filled out completely to avoid 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 Maryland Respiratory Care Practitioner Registry. This verification is important for employers and is required when applying for respiratory therapy positions. Keep your certification details accessible for job applications and interviews.
Tip
Print a copy of your certification for your records and future use.
Find Your First Job
Start your job search by visiting online job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized healthcare job portals. Tailor your resume to highlight your CRT certification, education, and any relevant clinical experience. Consider applying to hospitals, private clinics, and long-term care facilities. Networking with professionals in the respiratory therapy field can also lead to job opportunities.
Tip
Attend job fairs and industry conferences to network with healthcare professionals and potential employers.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Hospitals
Some hospitals in Maryland 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 be a cost-effective way to receive training and secure immediate employment.
Best for: Individuals looking for a direct pathway into employment with minimized upfront costs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Maryland 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: 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
- ✓ Two No. 2 pencils
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Cell phones
- ✗ Smart watches
- ✗ Personal calculators
- ✗ Food or drink
- ✗ Study materials
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours.
Getting Your Results
Scores are available immediately after the exam on the testing center's computer. Official results are mailed within two weeks.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after 60 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes in Maryland.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Prioritize studying areas with higher percentage weights, especially 'Initiation and Modification of Interventions'.
- 2. During the test, mark questions you are unsure about for review, but be mindful of the time limit.
- 3. Read each question carefully, especially the wording, to avoid mistakes on similar sounding terms.
- 4. Practice with sample questions from the NBRC website to familiarize yourself with the format and question style.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From your high school or the GED testing service · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Required for admission into respiratory therapy programs
Official Transcripts
From previous educational institutions · Approximately $5-$15 per transcript · 1-2 weeks
Used for credit transfers and to meet prerequisites
Proof of Immunizations
From your healthcare provider or previous school · Varies · Depends on health provider's schedule
Commonly required: MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Tdap, and annual flu shot
TB Test Results
From a local clinic or healthcare provider · Approximately $20-$50 · 48-72 hours after test administration
Often required annually or biennially
CPR Certification
From the American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Must be a healthcare provider level certification
Background Check
Through an approved agency or school's admissions office · Approximately $50-$100 · 1-2 weeks
Required for clinical placements
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the registrar of the respiratory therapy program · No cost · Immediately to a few days
Needed for various external scholarships or programs
Liability Insurance
Through the educational institution or a private provider · Approximately $30-$50 annually · Varies by provider
Required for clinical rotations
Clinical Rotation Assignments
From the program coordinator · No cost · Issued each semester
Essential for tracking clinical hours and experiences
3For the Exam
NBRC Eligibility Confirmation
From the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website after application · No additional cost
Confirms eligibility to sit for the CRT exam
Exam Fee Payment Receipt
From the NBRC website after payment · Approximately $190
Required to schedule the exam
Scheduled Exam Date Confirmation
From the testing center or NBRC website · No additional cost
Confirms date, time, and location of the CRT exam
4For Certification
CRT Exam Results
Available through the NBRC online portal · No additional cost
Proof of passing the CRT examination
Application for State Licensure
From the Maryland Board of Physicians website · Approximately $100 application fee
Required to legally practice as a Respiratory Therapist in Maryland
Fingerprinting and Criminal Background Check
Through an approved Maryland fingerprinting service · Approximately $50-$75
Mandatory for state licensure
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 and apply for licensure with the Maryland Board of Physicians. Update your resume with your new certification.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed, Glassdoor, and the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) job board specifically for Maryland positions
- • Hospital websites' careers sections
- • LinkedIn and state-specific healthcare job forums
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals (high volume, diverse respiratory conditions)
- • Long-term care facilities (steady work, less acute cases)
- • Home health agencies (flexible scheduling, one-on-one patient care)
- • Pulmonary rehabilitation centers (specialized care, patient education focus)
Resume Tip: Highlight your CRT certification prominently. Include any clinical rotations or internships, emphasizing skills and responsibilities. Mention soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Describe a time you handled a stressful situation.What techniques do you use for effective patient communication?How do you stay updated with new respiratory care techniques?Explain how you would handle a non-compliant patient.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Maryland, starting salaries for CRTs range from $50,000 to $60,000 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
- • Adjusting to the emotional demands of patient care, especially in severe cases.
- • Managing time effectively during busy shifts.
- • Keeping up with technological and treatment advancements in respiratory care.
- • Building rapport with patients and other healthcare team members.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in Maryland
Certified Respiratory Therapists in Maryland earn a median annual salary of $83,500, which is higher than the national median. This reflects the state's competitive pay scales in the healthcare sector.
Entry Level
$59,180
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$83,500
$40.14/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$104,480
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · ++7.1% in Maryland
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly higher than state median due to urban setting.
Competitive salaries reflective of proximity to specialized medical facilities.
Salary by Employer Type
While Maryland offers competitive salaries for CRTs, its cost of living is higher than many other states, which might offset the higher wages.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and potential for tuition reimbursement or continuing education credits.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth is expected to align with growing demand for respiratory services, particularly in urban and suburban areas.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight any specialized skills or certifications beyond basic CRT requirements.
- •Discuss continuing education and professional development completed.
Job Market in Maryland
In Maryland, the job market for Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) is influenced by the state's aging population and robust healthcare sector. With national employment for CRTs expected to grow from 139,600 in 2024 to 156,400 in 2034, Maryland's market aligns closely with this 12.1% growth rate. The state's high concentration of medical facilities and ongoing healthcare reforms support this steady demand.
Top Hiring Areas
Home to multiple large hospitals and medical centers
Growing suburban areas with increasing healthcare needs
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with fiscal hiring cycles
Opportunities
- Expansion of telehealth services
- Specialization in pediatric and geriatric respiratory care
Challenges
- Competition from neighboring states with higher wages
- Rapid technological changes requiring continual education
Training Programs in Maryland
Maryland offers several options 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 | $5,000 - $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18-24 months | $10,000 - $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Cumberland, Maryland
High pass rates and hands-on training facilities
Online & Hybrid Options
Hybrid options are available, combining online theory with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure quality and recognition in the field.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for Maryland
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
Variable
CE Hours
24 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Clinical practices, Patient care
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Maryland offers reciprocity for respiratory therapists licensed in other states, subject to verification of credentials and possibly additional requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current valid license from another state
- Proof of equivalent education and training
State Agreements
States that meet Maryland's licensing standards
Additional Exams
Depends on state of origin
Application Process
Submit an application along with proof of current licensure and other required documents
Fees
Variable
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
Respiratory Care Exam Review
Provides a detailed review and practice questions simulating the actual CRT exam format.
Kettering National Seminars CRT/RRT Review
Offers comprehensive test simulations and study materials specifically tailored for the CRT and RRT exams.
Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy Exam Preparation Guide
Covers all essential topics for the CRT exam with practice questions and detailed explanations.
The Comprehensive Respiratory Therapist's Exam Review
Highlights key concepts and includes practice exams to prepare candidates for success on the CRT test.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Used for assessing respiratory and cardiac function during training and clinical practice.
Pulse Oximeter
Essential for monitoring oxygen saturation, a fundamental skill in respiratory therapy.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Maryland Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13