Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in North Carolina
This guide provides a detailed path to becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in North Carolina, covering prerequisites, training, exams, and certification. 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 competency exam, and obtaining state certification.
The career of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in North Carolina offers substantial opportunities due to increasing demand and favorable economic conditions. With a median salary of $69,070 per year, CRTs in the state are compensated well above many other regions. The national workforce for respiratory therapists stands at 139,600, with an expected growth rate of 12.1% by 2034. This growth is reflective of an aging population and a rising incidence of respiratory conditions, affirming the stability and potential for advancement in this field.
North Carolina presents a distinctive environment for respiratory therapists due to its specific state regulations and diverse healthcare infrastructure. The state's numerous healthcare systems and hospitals are major employers for CRTs, with particular concentrations in urban areas such as Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro. These areas not only provide ample employment opportunities but also offer varied experiences in different clinical settings, from pediatric care to adult critical care, enhancing a therapist's breadth of expertise and professional development.
This guide aims to equip aspiring Certified Respiratory Therapists with detailed knowledge about obtaining licensure in North Carolina, the necessary steps to achieve certification, and realistic salary expectations. Readers will gain insight into the job market, understand the regional differences in employment opportunities, and learn about the key employers and healthcare facilities throughout the state. By providing this information, the guide intends to assist individuals in making informed decisions about pursuing a career as a CRT in North Carolina.
Licensing Authority
North Carolina Respiratory Care Board
In North Carolina, Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) must be licensed by the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board. Licensing requirements include completing an accredited training program, passing a national exam, and undergoing a background check.
Official Resources
North Carolina Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 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
- Submission of official transcripts
- Proof of legal U.S. residency
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) Exam
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- USD 190
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in North Carolina
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $30, textbooks/supplies $20, scrubs $0-$200
Fastest Path
8 weeks
Typical Timeline
12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet North Carolina's Prerequisites
Begin by confirming you meet the basic requirements for respiratory therapy training in North Carolina. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board website to download the prerequisite checklist. This process usually takes 1-2 days as you gather your documents, including a high school transcript and a government-issued ID.
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
North Carolina requires a comprehensive background check and health screenings for respiratory therapists. Schedule an appointment with a LiveScan service provider for fingerprinting, which costs about $50. You'll also need to provide TB test results from within the last 12 months and proof of immunizations. The background check results typically take 2-3 weeks to process. Disqualifying offenses and waiver applications are detailed on the state board's website.
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 therapy training program in North Carolina. Visit the North Carolina Community College System website to view a list of accredited programs. Ensure the program meets the required 120 hours of training, including 80 classroom hours and 40 clinical hours. Attending a non-approved program will render you ineligible for certification. Contact the programs directly to inquire about enrollment conditions, costs, and start dates.
Tip
Contact multiple programs to compare costs and schedules that best fit your needs.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Hospitals
Some hospitals in North Carolina 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 is ideal for individuals looking for financial aid and job security post-certification.
Best for: Individuals seeking financial aid and job security
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the North Carolina 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: Not applicable
Time Per Skill: Not applicable
Not applicable
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- ✓ NBRC confirmation notice
- ✓ Simple calculator (if preferred, as one is provided on the computer)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal items such as bags and electronics
- ✗ Notes or books
- ✗ Food or drink inside the testing room
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are provided immediately after the exam on screen and are available later online through the NBRC website. Official results are mailed within two weeks.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates may retake the exam after 60 days. The cost of retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit on the number of attempts in North Carolina.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Read each question carefully, especially focusing on terms like 'except' or 'not'.
- 2. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 3. Mark questions you are unsure about for review, but ensure to answer every question as there is no penalty for guessing.
- 4. Manage your time by keeping track of the remaining time and ensuring you have enough time to review marked questions.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From high school or GED program · Varies · Varies
Required for admission into respiratory therapy programs
Immunization Records
From personal physician or health department · May incur costs for copies or missing vaccinations · 1-2 weeks
Must include MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and TB test results
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers is required
Background Check
Third-party service or through the training program · Approximately $50 · 1-2 weeks
Required by most respiratory therapy programs for enrollment
2During Training
Official College Transcripts
From the registrar of the educational institution · Approximately $5-$15 per copy · 1-2 weeks
Needed for transfer credits or program prerequisites
Clinical Rotation Documentation
Provided by the respiratory therapy program · No cost · Issued upon completion of each rotation
Verification of clinical hours and experiences
Liability Insurance Proof
Insurance provider · Varies by provider and coverage amount · Immediate to a few days
Required for participation in clinical rotations
3For the Exam
NBRC Examination Application
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website · Examination fee approximately $190
Application must be completed to sit for the CRT exam
Photo Identification
State or government issued · Cost of ID varies by state
Required for identity verification at the testing center
Authorization to Test Letter
Received from NBRC after application approval · No additional cost
Must be presented on exam day
4For Certification
CRT Credential
Issued by NBRC after passing the exam · Included in exam fee
Official certification document needed for state licensure
State Licensure Application
North Carolina Respiratory Care Board website · Licensure fee approximately $100
Required to legally practice as a Respiratory Therapist in North Carolina
Proof of Legal Work Status
Personal documents such as Social Security card, passport · No cost unless obtaining new documents
Necessary for state licensure application
After You're Certified: What's Next
Confirm your status on the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website. Collect your CRT certificate from the board. Ensure your credentials are updated on your resume and professional profiles.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • North Carolina Hospital Association job board, Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and specialty sites like the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) job board
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities. Hospitals often offer structured training programs, while long-term care facilities may provide more hands-on experience with a diverse patient population.
Resume Tip: Highlight your clinical rotations, any specific respiratory treatments you are trained in, and key soft skills such as communication and teamwork. Include your certification and any relevant coursework.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss your clinical experiences, how you handle stressful situations, and your knowledge of respiratory care procedures. Expect questions on patient scenarios and safety protocols.
Expected First-Year Salary
A new Certified Respiratory Therapist in North Carolina can expect a starting salary ranging from $45,000 to $55,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Passing the RRT examination after meeting clinical experience requirements
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adjusting to irregular shifts and long hours, managing emotional stress from patient care, and staying updated with continuous medical advancements. Building a support network and seeking mentorship can be effective strategies for managing these challenges.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in North Carolina
In North Carolina, Certified Respiratory Therapists earn a median annual salary of $69,070, which is lower than the national median. Their hourly wage averages at $33.21.
Entry Level
$59,180
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$69,070
$33.21/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$104,480
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · -11.4% in North Carolina
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly higher than state median
Above state average, reflecting higher cost of living
Below state average
Salary by Employer Type
Given that North Carolina's cost of living is generally lower than the national average, the state's median respiratory therapist salary is considered competitive.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, paid leave, retirement plans, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth in this field is expected to align with healthcare sector trends and demand for respiratory care services.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight specialized skills or certifications
- •Reference regional salary data during discussions
Job Market in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the job market for Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) is adapting to growing healthcare demands, particularly due to an aging population and increased prevalence of respiratory conditions. While the national employment growth for CRTs is projected at 12.1% from 2024 to 2034, North Carolina's growth is anticipated to align closely with this trend, influenced by its substantial healthcare sector and expanding elderly demographic.
Top Hiring Areas
High population and concentration of medical centers
Presence of research hospitals and universities
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, coinciding with budget cycles of major hospitals
Opportunities
- Expansion in telehealth services
- Potential for advanced roles in specialized respiratory care
Challenges
- Competition from neighboring states with higher wages
- Limited public awareness about the role of CRTs
Training Programs in North Carolina
North Carolina offers diverse Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) training programs primarily through community colleges and vocational schools. These programs prepare students for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) CRT exam and are designed to meet state licensure requirements.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $5,000 to $10,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 to 24 months | $10,000 to $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Fayetteville, North Carolina
High exam pass rates and strong clinical partnerships
Online & Hybrid Options
Some community colleges offer hybrid options combining online theory with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status and check its NBRC exam pass rate.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for North Carolina
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
USD 100
CE Hours
24 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Clinical practice updates, Ethics
Out-of-State Reciprocity
North Carolina offers reciprocity for CRTs licensed in other states. Applicants must meet North Carolina's requirements and may need to pass additional exams depending on their original state's standards.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current valid license from another state
- Proof of equivalent education and training
State Agreements
Specific states not listed; evaluated on a case-by-case basis
Additional Exams
Possible, depending on originating state's licensing standards
Application Process
Submit a completed application form, fee, and supporting documents
Fees
USD 125
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, especially proof of training and legal residency, are accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays.
Review study materials for the CRT exam thoroughly, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Recommended Resources
Kettering National Seminars CRT/RRT Review
Provides a comprehensive set of practice questions and simulations tailored to the CRT exam.
LindseyJones CRT RRT Test Prep
Offers detailed practice exams and study materials, focusing on critical thinking and test strategies.
Respiratory Care Exam Review by Gary Persing
This guide covers a wide range of topics relevant to the CRT exam, including detailed explanations and review questions.
Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy Exam Preparation Guide by Craig L. Scanlan
A thorough review resource with a focus on both the CRT and RRT exams, featuring in-depth content and self-assessment tools.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Needed for auscultation training and practice, essential for respiratory assessments.
Pulse Oximeter
Used to monitor oxygen saturation, a fundamental skill in respiratory therapy.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- North Carolina Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13