Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in New York
This guide details the steps to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in New York, focusing on the specific requirements and procedures set by the state. The process involves meeting prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the required exam, and obtaining state certification. The total path duration is typically 6 to 12 months, with total costs ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on chosen programs and materials.
The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) career in New York presents a promising opportunity for those interested in the healthcare field. Currently, New York boasts a median salary of $98,640 per year for CRTs, significantly higher than many other regions. Nationally, the field includes 139,600 workers, with an expected growth rate of 12.1% by 2034. This growth is indicative of the increasing demand for respiratory therapy services, particularly in a post-pandemic world where respiratory care has gained heightened visibility and importance.
New York offers a unique environment for respiratory therapists due to its specific state regulations and diverse healthcare settings. The state requires licensure for respiratory therapists, ensuring that all practitioners meet stringent standards of professionalism and competence. New York's extensive network of world-renowned hospitals and healthcare facilities, from urban centers like New York City to the rural reaches of upstate, provides a varied landscape for employment. Additionally, the state's high population density and aging demographic create a steady demand for respiratory care services, making it a strategic location for career growth in this field.
This guide will provide detailed insights into the process of becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in New York. Readers will learn about the necessary educational requirements, the steps for obtaining state licensure, and realistic salary expectations based on regional data. Additionally, the guide will offer an overview of the job market in New York, including potential employers and practical tips for securing a position in this rewarding field. By outlining these steps and providing clear, factual information, the guide aims to equip prospective CRTs with the knowledge needed to pursue their career confidently.
Licensing Authority
New York State Board for Respiratory Therapy
In New York, Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) must obtain licensure through the New York State Board for Respiratory Therapy. The process involves education, examinations, and background checks.
Official Resources
New York Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Associate's degree or higher in respiratory therapy from a CoARC accredited program
- 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 lawful presence in the US
Certification Exam
- Exam
- National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist Exam
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- USD 190
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in New York
tuition $1500-$4000, exam fee $200, background check $85, application fee $40, textbooks/supplies $150, scrubs $25
Fastest Path
6 months
Typical Timeline
8-12 months
Estimated Cost
$2000–$5000
Verify You Meet New York's Prerequisites
Before embarking on the path to becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in New York, verify that you meet the state prerequisites. These include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, and being in good physical health. Visit the New York State Board for Respiratory Therapy website to review detailed requirements and download any necessary forms. This step is crucial as it determines your eligibility to enroll in an approved training program and sit for the certification exam.
Tip
Ensure all documents are up-to-date and readily available to avoid delays.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Complete a background check and health screenings as required by New York state regulations. This includes an FBI fingerprint check and screenings for tuberculosis and other communicable diseases. Visit Identogo by MorphoTrust USA to schedule your fingerprinting appointment. Results typically take 2-3 weeks. Disqualifying criminal offenses may prevent certification, but waivers can be applied for in certain circumstances. This step must be completed before enrolling in a training program.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to accommodate processing times.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved respiratory therapy training program in New York. The program must include 600 classroom hours and 600 clinical hours, totaling 1200 hours. Visit the New York State Education Department's Office of the Professions website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program will result in the inability to sit for the certification exam, thus wasting time and money.
Tip
Consider program location, cost, and schedule when making your choice.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you have selected an approved program, enroll and complete the required 1200 hours of training, split evenly between classroom instruction and clinical experience. This training is crucial to gain the necessary skills and knowledge for the certification exam. Ensure that all hours are documented and verified by the program, as this will be required when applying for certification. Completion times can vary based on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Tip
Maintain a good attendance record to ensure you meet the hour requirements.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Prepare for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam. This exam is a critical step in obtaining your certification. It includes 160 multiple-choice questions covering topics learned during your training. Utilize study guides and practice exams available through the NBRC website. A passing score is 70%. If you fail, you can reschedule after 60 days.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams to track your improvement and readiness for the actual test.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the CRT exam through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website. You will need to provide proof of your completed training and pay an exam fee of $200. Once registered, you can schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. It is advisable to schedule your exam soon after completing your training while the information is still fresh.
Tip
Choose a testing center and time that minimizes stress and travel.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of your exam, arrive at the Pearson VUE testing center with two forms of ID. The CRT exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions and you will have three hours to complete it. A score of 70% or higher is required to pass. If you fail, review the sections where improvement is needed and reschedule your exam. You can attempt the exam up to three times in a year.
Tip
Arrive early to the testing center to allow ample time for check-in procedures.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the CRT exam, apply for your state certification through the New York State Board for Respiratory Therapy. Complete the application form available on their website, attach proof of passing the exam and your training completion certificate, and pay the $40 application fee. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks. Once processed, your certification will appear in the New York State Respiratory Therapist Registry.
Tip
Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid processing delays.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is approved, you will receive your Certified Respiratory Therapist certification by mail. Verify your certification status on the New York State Respiratory Therapist Registry website. This verification is necessary as it confirms your legal status to work as a CRT in New York. Employers will check this registry to confirm your credentials.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and registry for updates on your certification status.
Find Your First Job
With your certification in hand, begin your job search. Utilize online job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized healthcare job portals. Networking with professionals in the field through LinkedIn and attending industry conferences can also be beneficial. Prepare your resume to highlight your training, certification, and any relevant experience. Be ready to discuss your practical skills and knowledge in interviews.
Tip
Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application to better align with the job requirements.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training Programs
Some healthcare facilities in New York offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring respiratory therapists. These programs often cover tuition costs in exchange for a commitment to work at the facility for a specified period after certification. This path can significantly reduce education expenses.
Best for: Individuals looking to minimize upfront education costs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the New York 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
- ✓ NBRC confirmation notice
- ✓ Two No. 2 pencils
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, etc.)
- ✗ Food or drink
- ✗ Personal belongings (bags, hats, coats)
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are available immediately after the exam. Official results mailed within two weeks.
If You Don't Pass
Can retake after 60 days. Cost of retake is the same as initial test fee. Unlimited attempts allowed.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on the major topic areas, especially 'Initiation and Modification of Interventions' which makes up 60% of the exam.
- 2. Practice time management to ensure you can answer all questions within the allotted 3 hours.
- 3. Read each question carefully to avoid mistakes due to misunderstanding.
- 4. Use elimination methods to narrow down choices in multiple-choice questions.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institutions · Varies (typically no cost for copies) · 1-4 weeks
Required to enroll in respiratory therapy programs
Immunization Records
Personal physician or health department · Varies · 1-3 weeks
Ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date, including MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B
Tuberculosis Test Results
Healthcare provider · Approximately $20-$100 · 1-2 days
TB skin test or IGRA; must be recent (within the last year)
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by class availability
Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers is typically required
Proof of Legal U.S. Residency or Citizenship
Personal records · Immediate
Copy of passport, birth certificate, or green card
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the respiratory therapy program · Immediate
Document confirming enrollment in an accredited program
Clinical Rotation Assignments
From the respiratory therapy program · Immediate
Details of clinical placements necessary for practical experience
Liability Insurance
Insurance provider or through the educational institution · Varies (approximately $30-$50 per year) · 1-2 weeks
Required for clinical rotations; may be provided by the school
Academic Transcripts
From the respiratory therapy program · Varies (typically $5-$15 per copy) · 1-2 weeks
Official transcripts may be required for certification application
3For the Exam
NBRC Examination Application
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website · Examination fee approximately $190
Must apply to take the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam
Photo Identification
Personal possession
Valid government-issued ID required on exam day
4For Certification
NBRC CRT Credential
Issued by NBRC after passing the exam · Included in examination fee
Official certification as a Certified Respiratory Therapist
New York State License Application
New York State Education Department's Office of the Professions · License fee approximately $294
Application for state licensure is separate from national certification
Child Abuse Reporting Certificate
Approved providers listed on NYSED website · Approximately $30-$50
Mandatory training for healthcare providers in New York
Infection Control Certificate
Approved providers listed on NYSED website · Approximately $30-$50
Required infection control training for licensure
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. Apply for your New York State license through the Office of the Professions. Ensure your CPR certification is up-to-date, as this is often a prerequisite for employment.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Glassdoor, and specialized healthcare job boards like Health eCareers. Networking with professionals in the field through LinkedIn and attending local healthcare job fairs can also be beneficial.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private clinics. Hospitals often offer rotational programs that expose new CRTs to various departments. Long-term care facilities might provide more stable hours but potentially less diversity in cases. Private clinics can offer specialized experience but might require more experience.
Resume Tip: Highlight any clinical rotations and specific skills such as ventilator management or patient assessment. Include any relevant certifications and your license number. Emphasize soft skills like communication and teamwork, crucial in healthcare settings.
Interview Tip: Describe a time when you had to handle a stressful situation and how you managed it.Explain how you would handle a patient who is difficult to ventilate.Discuss the importance of patient education in respiratory care.
Expected First-Year Salary
In New York, starting salaries for CRTs typically range 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 administered by the NBRC, which requires additional clinical experience and knowledge.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • New CRTs often face challenges such as adjusting to the emotional demands of working with severely ill patients, managing night shifts, and balancing patient load with detailed documentation requirements. Building a support network with colleagues and seeking mentorship can help manage these challenges.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in New York
Certified Respiratory Therapists in New York earn a median salary of $98,640 annually, significantly higher than the national median. This reflects the state's higher cost of living and demand for skilled healthcare professionals.
Entry Level
$59,180
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$98,640
$47.42/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$104,480
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · ++26.5% in New York
Salary by Metro Area
High demand in urban healthcare settings
Lower than NYC but above national average
Salary by Employer Type
While salaries are high, New York's cost of living can significantly offset these gains, particularly in urban areas like NYC.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Expected to grow with ongoing healthcare advancements and increased demand for respiratory care.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight specialized skills and certifications
- •Reference prevailing wage data and high cost of living adjustments
Job Market in New York
In New York, the demand for Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) aligns closely with the national growth rate of 12.1% from 2024 to 2034. The state's large aging population and high rates of respiratory illnesses drive the need for CRTs. New York's extensive healthcare system, including numerous specialized respiratory clinics, further amplifies this demand.
Top Hiring Areas
High population density and numerous hospitals
Growing healthcare sector but lower population density than NYC
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring or late fall, aligning with fiscal hiring cycles of major hospitals
Opportunities
- Expansion in telehealth roles
- Increased demand in geriatric respiratory care
Challenges
- High competition in metropolitan areas
- Need for continuous professional development due to technological advancements in respiratory care
Training Programs in New York
New York offers several Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) training programs across various educational settings, including community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $4,000 to $15,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 to 24 months | $5,000 to $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Troy, New York
High national board exam pass rates
Online & Hybrid Options
Some community colleges offer hybrid options combining online theory with in-person practical sessions.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify accreditation status to ensure eligibility for certification exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for New York
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 3 years
Renewal Fee
USD 165
CE Hours
30 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Respiratory care practices, Patient safety
Out-of-State Reciprocity
New York offers reciprocity for CRTs licensed in other states, provided they meet New York's educational and examination standards.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current certification by the NBRC
- Proof of equivalent educational requirements
State Agreements
All states, contingent upon meeting New York standards
Additional Exams
None
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement along with verification of out-of-state licensure
Fees
USD 294
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, especially from educational and training programs, are directly sent by the institutions to avoid delays.
Review the NBRC exam topics thoroughly to ensure passing on the first attempt.
Recommended Resources
The Comprehensive Respiratory Therapist Exam Review
Covers both TMC and CSE portions of the CRT exam with practice questions and simulations.
Respiratory Care Exam Review - 5th Edition by Gary Persing
Offers detailed explanations and a variety of practice exams to prepare for the CRT credentialing.
Kettering National Seminars CRT/RRT Review
Provides a thorough review of subjects and practice questions tailored for the CRT exam.
Oakes' Respiratory Care Pocket Guide
A handy reference for quick review of respiratory care facts and formulas.
3M Littmann Classic III Monitoring Stethoscope
Essential for assessing respiratory and cardiac function during training and examinations.
Pulse Oximeter
Used to measure oxygen saturation and pulse rate, critical for respiratory therapy training.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- New York Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13