How to Become a Respiratory Therapist

5 steps to become a respiratory therapist

1. Take science prerequisites

   Anatomy, physiology, chemistry and microbiology are common.

2. Finish a CoARC-accredited program

   Associate or bachelor’s programs include hospital clinical rotations.

3. Pass the NBRC exams

   Earn the CRT, then the RRT by passing the Clinical Simulation exam.

4. Get your state license

   Apply in the state where you’ll work.

5. Specialize

   Pursue neonatal, critical care, pulmonary function or leadership roles.

Education and training requirements

Respiratory therapists need at least an associate degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). Bachelor’s degree programs are increasingly common. Graduates take the NBRC Therapist Multiple-Choice exam and, for the RRT, the Clinical Simulation exam.

Certifications and licenses

• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT): The advanced NBRC credential preferred by most hospitals.
• Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT): The entry-level NBRC credential.
• ACLS, PALS and NRP: Life-support certifications for adult, pediatric and neonatal emergencies.
• Specialty credentials: Such as NPS (neonatal/pediatric), ACCS (adult critical care) or RPFT (pulmonary function).

Skills to build now

Start with mechanical ventilation management, arterial blood gas sampling and interpretation, and aerosol and oxygen therapy, and practice calm under pressure and teamwork. Learning the respiratory therapist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.

Where the career can lead

1. Student Respiratory Therapist: Complete clinical rotations in hospitals.
2. Staff Respiratory Therapist: Provide treatments and manage ventilators.
3. Critical Care or Neonatal Specialist: Earn specialty credentials and work in ICUs.
4. Lead Therapist, Educator or Department Manager: Supervise staff, teach or manage respiratory care services.

Get a head start

Our self-paced Respiratory Therapist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.

Common questions about getting started

How long does it take to become a respiratory therapist?

Most people complete a two-year associate degree, then pass NBRC exams and get licensed.

How long does it take to become a respiratory therapist?

Most people need about 2 years of training. Respiratory therapists need at least an associate degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). Bachelor’s degree programs are increasingly common. Graduates take the NBRC Therapist Multiple-Choice exam and, for the RRT, the Clinical Simulation exam.

Do you need a degree to be a respiratory therapist?

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.

What certifications are available for respiratory therapists?

Common credentials include Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT), ACLS, PALS and NRP, and Specialty credentials. Every state except Alaska licenses respiratory therapists, usually requiring graduation from an accredited program and an NBRC credential.

Sources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1126 (Respiratory therapists).
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
• O*NET OnLine summary for Respiratory therapists (U.S. Department of Labor).
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.