Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Texas
This guide outlines the steps to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) in Texas, detailing the process from meeting prerequisites to obtaining certification and securing employment. The path involves specific training hours, examinations, and state registration, with a total cost ranging from $800 to $2,500 and a timeline from 4 to 20 weeks depending on the study mode.
In Texas, the role of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) is not only in high demand but also highly rewarding, with a median annual salary of $76,450. This figure stands out in the healthcare sector, underpinning the financial viability of this career path. With a national workforce of 139,600 respiratory therapists, the projected growth rate of 12.1% by 2034 indicates a robust job market. This growth is driven by an aging population, increased prevalence of respiratory conditions, and heightened healthcare needs, making respiratory therapy a prudent career choice in Texas.
Texas offers a unique environment for Certified Respiratory Therapists due to specific state regulations and a diverse healthcare infrastructure. The state mandates specific licensing requirements that ensure all practicing therapists meet high standards of professional competence. Major healthcare systems across Texas, including Baylor Scott & White, Texas Health Resources, and Methodist Health System, frequently seek skilled respiratory therapists. Additionally, regional factors such as high pollution levels in urban areas like Houston and Dallas contribute to a greater demand for respiratory care, further enhancing job opportunities in these areas.
This guide provides detailed insights into becoming a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Texas. Readers will learn about the licensing process, necessary educational qualifications, and the steps required to earn certification. The guide also covers salary expectations across different regions within the state and offers a realistic view of the job market for respiratory therapists. By presenting this information, the guide aims to equip aspiring therapists with the knowledge needed to successfully enter and navigate the profession in Texas.
Licensing Authority
Texas Medical Board
In Texas, Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) must be licensed through the Texas Medical Board. The process includes education, examinations, and a background check.
Official Resources
Texas Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Completion of an accredited respiratory care 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
- NBRC-CRT (National Board for Respiratory Care - Certified Respiratory Therapist)
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- 190 USD
How to Become a Certified Respiratory Therapist in Texas
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $25, textbooks/supplies $25, scrubs $0-$200
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Texas's Prerequisites
Check if you meet the prerequisites for becoming a CRT in Texas. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Request your high school transcript or GED certificate as proof of education. This process can be done online or by contacting your high school or GED program directly. Expect to pay a fee for transcript requests, which varies by institution.
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 Texas Department of Public Safety. This includes an FBI fingerprint check. Visit a local LiveScan provider to have your fingerprints electronically submitted. Results typically take 2-3 weeks. Concurrently, complete health screenings including a TB test and possibly a drug screening, depending on program requirements. Disqualifying criminal records might include violent crimes or drug offenses; consult the Texas Medical Board for specifics.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early in the process to avoid delays in background check results.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Identify a state-approved respiratory therapist training program in Texas. Only graduates from approved programs are eligible to sit for the certification exam. Visit the Texas Medical Board website to access a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program results in ineligibility for certification, wasting both time and money. Programs typically offer a mix of classroom and clinical training, totaling 120 hours.
Tip
Check for additional program accreditations or partnerships with medical facilities for better clinical placement opportunities.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you've chosen an approved program, enroll and complete both the classroom and clinical components of the training. The program should consist of 60 classroom hours and 60 clinical hours. Ensure that you attend all sessions and meet all performance criteria. Programs may offer flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate working students. Completion usually requires passing both practical and written assessments provided by the training program.
Tip
Maintain a log of your clinical hours in case verification is needed during the certification application process.
Prepare for the Competency Exam
Start preparing for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam. This exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions covering patient data evaluation, troubleshooting, clinical procedures, and equipment. Use study guides and practice exams available online. The NBRC website offers resources and practice exams. Allocate at least 4-6 weeks for exam preparation.
Tip
Focus on areas of weakness by taking multiple practice exams to track improvement.
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 will receive an authorization to test, allowing you to schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. Exam dates are available throughout the year, and you can choose a date and location that best fits your schedule.
Tip
Choose an exam date that allows ample time for preparation but is soon enough to keep the information fresh.
Take and Pass the Exam
Arrive at the Pearson VUE testing center on your scheduled exam date with two forms of government-issued photo ID. The CRT exam is computer-based and lasts 3 hours. If you fail, you can reschedule after 60 days and pay a retest fee. Passing the exam is essential for proceeding to certification. Results are typically available immediately after the exam.
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 certification with the Texas Medical Board. You must submit an application form, proof of passing the exam, and a fee of $25. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Upon approval, your CRT certification will be listed in the Texas state registry. This certification is necessary to legally work as a Respiratory Therapist in Texas.
Tip
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid processing 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 Texas Medical Board's online registry. This verification is crucial for employers confirming your credentials. Typically, your certification appears in the registry within a week of approval.
Tip
Regularly check the mail and the online registry to confirm the receipt and accuracy of your certification information.
Find Your First Job
With certification in hand, begin your job search. Utilize online job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized healthcare job portals. Additionally, networking with professionals during your clinical training can be beneficial. Prepare your resume to highlight your certification, education, and any relevant experience. Typical starting salaries for CRTs in Texas range from $45,000 to $55,000 annually.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each job application to align with the specific requirements and duties of the position.
Alternative Training Paths
Employer-Sponsored Training at Hospitals
Some hospitals in Texas offer employer-sponsored training programs for aspiring respiratory therapists. These programs typically cover the cost of education in exchange for a commitment to work at the hospital for a specified period post-certification. This path can reduce educational expenses but may limit job mobility initially.
Best for: Individuals looking to reduce upfront educational costs and who are open to committing to a single employer for the initial years of their career.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Texas 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 Admission Ticket
- ✓ Basic calculator (if preferred, check NBRC guidelines)
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal belongings (e.g., bags, hats)
- ✗ Electronic devices (e.g., smartphones, smartwatches)
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are provided on screen immediately after the exam. 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 test fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes allowed in Texas.
Exam Strategies
- 1. During the written test, focus on the patient care scenarios as they constitute the majority of the exam.
- 2. Manage your time efficiently, aiming to spend no more than one minute per question initially.
- 3. Mark questions you are unsure about for review, but ensure to answer all questions as there is no penalty for guessing.
- 4. Read each question carefully, paying special attention to words like 'not' or 'except', which can completely change what the question is asking.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
High School or GED Issuing Authority · Varies (typically $0-$50) · 1-4 weeks
Required for admission into accredited respiratory therapy programs
Official College Transcripts
Previous Colleges/Universities attended · Varies (typically $5-$20 per transcript) · 1-2 weeks
For those who have attended college, to verify prerequisites and transfer credits
Immunization Records
Personal physician or health department · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Must include proof of MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and Tdap
Tuberculosis Test Results
Healthcare provider · Approximately $20-$100 · 1-3 days
Required to ensure the safety of clinical environments; must be current within the year
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · Approximately $50-$100 · Single course duration
Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification is required
Criminal Background Check
Third-party services or state bureau · Approximately $10-$50 · 1-3 weeks
Some programs require this prior to admission
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
Respiratory Therapy Program Office · Typically $0 · Immediate to 1 week
Needed for various purposes such as scholarships and internships
Liability Insurance
Insurance providers · Approximately $30-$100 annually · Immediate online
Required for clinical rotations
Health Insurance Proof
Personal health insurance provider · Cost of health insurance · Immediate to 1 week
Many programs require students to have health insurance
Clinical Rotation Assignments
Program Coordinator · Typically $0 · Varies by program schedule
Document outlining clinical rotation schedules and locations
3For the Exam
NBRC Exam Application
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website · Approximately $190
Application to take the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination
Proof of Program Completion
Respiratory Therapy Program Office · Typically $0-$10
Official document or letter confirming graduation or eligibility to graduate
Identification
State or federal government · Varies (state ID typically $10-$25)
Valid government-issued photo ID required for exam entry
4For Certification
CRT Credential
National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) · Included in exam fee
Issued upon passing the TMC Examination with high enough scores to earn CRT credential
Texas Respiratory Care Practitioner License Application
Texas Medical Board · Approximately $150
Required to practice as a Respiratory Therapist in Texas
Jurisprudence Exam Completion Certificate
Texas Medical Board website · Approximately $34
Exam tests knowledge of Texas laws relating to respiratory care
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your certification status on the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) website. Obtain your official CRT certificate from the Texas Medical Board. Ensure your CPR certification is up to date.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, Monster.com, and the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) job board specifically for respiratory therapy positions in Texas
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Major hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities. Hospitals often offer structured training programs, while rehabilitation centers may provide more patient interaction and diverse cases. Long-term care facilities typically involve chronic care management.
Resume Tip: Highlight your CRT certification, clinical rotations, and any relevant skills such as patient assessments, use of ventilators, and emergency response. Include soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Interview Tip: Describe a challenging patient case and how you handled it.Explain how you stay updated with respiratory care techniques.Discuss your experience with ventilators or other respiratory equipment.Provide an example of how you've worked effectively in a healthcare team.
Expected First-Year Salary
In Texas, a new Certified Respiratory Therapist can expect a salary range from $45,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on the facility and location within the state.
Career Advancement Path
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Passing the RRT examination administered by the NBRC, after gaining experience and meeting specific clinical prerequisites.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Handling emotionally taxing situations with severe or terminal patients, managing time effectively during high-stress scenarios, staying updated with the latest treatment protocols, and navigating workplace dynamics in diverse medical teams.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Salary in Texas
In Texas, Certified Respiratory Therapists earn a median salary of $76,450 annually, slightly below the national median. This reflects the competitive nature of healthcare salaries within the state.
Entry Level
$59,180
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$76,450
$36.75/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$104,480
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$77,960 national · -1.9% in Texas
Salary by Metro Area
Above state median, high demand area
Slightly below state median, competitive market
Below state median, lower cost of living
Salary by Employer Type
Texas offers a lower cost of living compared to many states, which somewhat compensates for the slightly lower salaries in respiratory therapy.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and continuing education opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth is expected to align with national healthcare demand increases and inflation adjustments.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in your specific Texas metro area
- •Highlight specialized skills and certifications
Job Market in Texas
The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) job market in Texas is experiencing growth due to the state's large and aging population, which increases demand for healthcare services including respiratory care. Texas's growth in healthcare facilities and investments in medical technology also amplify the need for CRTs. This growth aligns with the national trend, where the employment of CRTs is expected to rise by 12.1% from 2024 to 2034.
Top Hiring Areas
Home to large medical centers and research facilities
Rapid expansion of healthcare services and facilities
Growing healthcare sector but slightly lower demand compared to Houston and Dallas/Fort Worth
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with fiscal hiring cycles of major hospitals
Opportunities
- Continuing education and specialization in areas like pediatric respiratory care
- Positions in rapidly growing suburban healthcare facilities
Challenges
- Shortage of trained CRTs in rural areas
- High competition for positions in major urban centers
Training Programs in Texas
Texas offers a variety of Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) training programs, primarily through community colleges, vocational schools, and some employer-sponsored initiatives. These programs prepare students for the CRT exam and are designed to meet the specific requirements set by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) and Texas state regulations.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $4,000 to $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18 to 24 months | $5,000 to $25,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Dallas, Texas
High pass rates and strong clinical partnerships
Houston, Texas
Extensive hands-on training
Online & Hybrid Options
Several community colleges offer hybrid formats combining online theory courses with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure quality and state recognition.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Certified Respiratory Therapist program info for Texas
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
65 USD
CE Hours
24 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Clinical practice updates, Patient safety
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Texas allows reciprocity for CRTs licensed in other states, subject to verification and additional requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Current certification by the NBRC
- Active license in good standing in another state
State Agreements
All states, as long as the current license is in good standing and NBRC certified
Additional Exams
No additional exams required
Application Process
Submit the application for licensure by endorsement, including verification of out-of-state license
Fees
150 USD
Processing Time: 4 to 6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents, especially proof of education and test scores, are ready before applying to streamline the process.
Regularly check the Texas Medical Board website for updates on licensing requirements and renewal procedures.
Recommended Resources
Comprehensive Respiratory Therapy Exam Preparation Guide
This guide provides extensive coverage of CRT exam topics and includes practice questions to aid in preparation.
Respiratory Care Exam Review (4th Edition) by Gary Persing
Offers review questions and simulations tailored to the content of the CRT exam.
The Comprehensive Respiratory Therapist's Exam Review (6th Edition)
Covers key concepts and includes exam-specific chapters, aligning closely with CRT exam standards.
Respiratory Care Made Incredibly Easy
Simplifies complex concepts in respiratory care, useful for foundational understanding and CRT exam prep.
Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Essential for respiratory assessments, this stethoscope provides high acoustic sensitivity.
Pulse Oximeter
Necessary for measuring oxygen saturation, a critical parameter for respiratory therapists to monitor.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- Texas Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13