How to Become a Respiratory Therapist (2026)
Respiratory therapists help patients breathe easier, from newborns in intensive care to adults recovering from illness or injury.
Their specialized medical training focuses on assessing and treating breathing and lung disorders.
If you’re interested in healthcare, patient interaction, and technology-driven medical care, training to become a respiratory therapist offers a vital and respected career path.
Quick answers
At a glance
- Typical entry path: an accredited respiratory therapy program (often an associate degree in respiratory care)
- Time to qualify: 2-4 years, depending on degree path
- Credentials: NBRC exam (CRT or RRT) and a state license in nearly every state
- Costs listed on this page: $8,000-$25,000 for programs; $190-$390 for licensing exam fees
- Common settings: hospitals/ICU, emergency and trauma centers, outpatient clinics, sleep labs, and home healthcare
What does a respiratory therapist do?
Respiratory therapists evaluate and treat patients with breathing problems. They assess oxygen levels, operate ventilators, and provide therapies like oxygen and medications.
Where do respiratory therapists work?
Common work environments include hospitals and intensive care units, emergency and trauma centers, pulmonary rehabilitation facilities, sleep labs, outpatient clinics, and home healthcare or long-term care centers.
What education do you need to become a respiratory therapist?
Most respiratory therapists earn an associate degree in respiratory care by completing an accredited respiratory therapy program. A bachelor’s degree can support leadership or teaching roles.
Do respiratory therapists need certification and a license?
Graduates must pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam to earn Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials. Licensing is required in nearly every state.
How long does it take and how much does it cost?
This page lists training at 2-4 years, depending on the degree level. Program costs are listed at $8,000-$25,000, plus licensing exam fees of $190-$390.
Can respiratory therapists specialize?
Yes. This page notes advanced credentials in neonatal care, pulmonary rehabilitation, or sleep disorder specialties.
What Respiratory Therapists Do
Respiratory therapists evaluate and treat patients with breathing problems caused by chronic conditions, injuries, or emergencies. They work with physicians to deliver life-saving care and improve lung function.
Typical Responsibilities
- Assess lung capacity and oxygen levels
- Operate ventilators and respiratory equipment
- Administer oxygen, medications, and chest physiotherapy
- Develop treatment plans under physician supervision
- Educate patients about managing chronic conditions
- Respond to emergency breathing situations
Respiratory therapists are essential to modern healthcare, often serving as the first responders in critical care and trauma units.
Key Skills and Traits for Success
- Strong communication and empathy
- Attention to medical detail and accuracy
- Ability to stay calm under pressure
- Technical skill with monitoring and ventilator systems
- Knowledge of anatomy, biology, and pharmacology
- Commitment to patient safety and confidentiality
Common Work Environments
Respiratory therapists work in:
- Hospitals and intensive care units
- Emergency and trauma centers
- Pulmonary rehabilitation facilities
- Sleep labs and outpatient clinics
- Home healthcare and long-term care centers
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist (5 Steps)
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Take science and math classes such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy to prepare for respiratory care programs.
2. Complete an Accredited Respiratory Therapy Program
Most respiratory therapists earn an associate degree in respiratory care. Coursework includes cardiopulmonary physiology, pharmacology, and patient assessment.
3. Gain Clinical Experience
Hands-on training in hospitals and clinics provides real-world exposure to ventilator management, patient monitoring, and emergency care.
4. Get Certified and Licensed
Graduates must pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam to become a:
- Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Licensing is required in nearly every state and ensures professional competence and safety.
5. Continue Education and Specialize
Experienced therapists may pursue advanced credentials such as neonatal, pulmonary rehabilitation, or sleep disorder specialties.
Education and Certification Options
| Pathway | Typical Duration | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Required for entry-level licensing |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | Expands into leadership or teaching roles |
| Continuing Education | Ongoing | Maintains certification and specialization |
Career Growth and Advancement
With experience, respiratory therapists can advance into:
- Clinical Specialist: works in ICU or neonatal care
- Supervisor or Department Manager: oversees respiratory care teams
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist: supports long-term lung recovery
- Educator or Researcher: trains new therapists or contributes to clinical studies
Cost and Duration of Training
- Program Cost: $8,000-$25,000 depending on degree level and location
- Duration: 2-4 years
- Licensing Exam Fees: $190-$390 depending on credential
Many community colleges and technical schools offer accredited respiratory care programs with clinical rotations included.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- High demand and strong job security
- Rewarding, patient-centered work
- Varied clinical settings
- Opportunities for specialization
⚠️ Cons
- Emotionally demanding environments
- Shift work including nights and weekends
- Exposure to contagious illnesses
Quick Facts: Respiratory Therapist Salary, Education, and Outlook
Wage and Employment Charts
| Percentile | Annual wage |
|---|---|
| 10th | $63660 |
| 25th | $74520 |
| 50th (median) | $82280 |
| 75th | $98730 |
| 90th | $118050 |
| State | Median annual wage |
|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $111950 |
| New York | $107810 |
| California | $104820 |
| Massachusetts | $102170 |
| Washington | $101130 |
| New Jersey | $100810 |
| Oregon | $100560 |
| Minnesota | $98710 |
| Alaska | $97950 |
| New Hampshire | $95940 |
| Year | Employment |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 139600 |
| 2034 projected | 156400 |
| Percent change | +12.1% |
Workplace Safety Snapshot
BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses data (2023-2024) report approximately 135.8 days-away, restricted, or transfer cases per 10,000 full-time-equivalent workers in respiratory therapists (about 1.36 per 100 FTE). Source: BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, Table R98.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a respiratory therapist?
It typically takes typically 6 months to 2 years of training. The most common entry path is through a certificate or associate degree program. A high school diploma or GED is generally required to get started.
How much do respiratory therapists make?
The median annual salary for respiratory therapists is $82,280 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025). Entry-level workers earn around $63,660, while those in the 90th percentile earn over $118,050. Pay varies by state, experience, and specialization.
What is the job outlook for respiratory therapists?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 12.1% employment growth for this occupation from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than average. Approximately 8,800 job openings are expected each year due to growth, retirements, and workers leaving the field.
Do you need a college degree to become a respiratory therapist?
No. A college degree is not required to work as a respiratory therapist. Most people enter the field through a certificate or associate degree program. A high school diploma or GED is typically the only educational prerequisite.
Which states pay respiratory therapists the most?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 OEWS), the highest-paying states for respiratory therapists are District of Columbia, New York, and California. Median annual wages: District of Columbia ($111,950); New York ($107,810); California ($104,820).
Which states employ the most respiratory therapists?
BLS reports the largest concentrations of respiratory therapists in California, Texas, and Florida. Employment levels: California (18,650 workers); Texas (12,130 workers); Florida (8,820 workers) (May 2025).
How much do experienced respiratory therapists earn?
The top 10% of respiratory therapists earn more than $118,050 per year, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Experienced workers in this band typically hold senior credentials, supervisory roles, or specialty certifications.
What is entry-level pay for respiratory therapists?
BLS reports the bottom 10% of respiratory therapists earn under $63,660 per year. New workers often start near this level and see pay rise as they accumulate experience and credentials.
How many respiratory therapists work in the United States?
BLS reports approximately 139,790 respiratory therapists employed nationwide as of May 2025.
How many job openings are expected for respiratory therapists each year?
BLS projects approximately 8,800 openings per year for respiratory therapists from 2024 through 2034, including new positions, retirements, and workers transitioning out. The occupation is projected to grow 12.1% from 2024 to 2034, classified as much faster than average growth.
Is respiratory therapist a growing career?
Yes. BLS projects 12.1% employment growth for respiratory therapists between 2024 and 2034, classified as much faster than average. Employment is projected to rise from approximately 139,600 jobs in 2024 to 156,400 in 2034.
How much do respiratory therapists make per hour?
The median hourly wage for respiratory therapists is $39.56, according to BLS (May 2025). Hourly pay ranges from about $30.61 (bottom 10%) to $56.75 (top 10%).
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025)
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2024-2034
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (2023-2024, Table R98)
- U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, Davis-Bacon General Wage Determinations (2026)
Respiratory Therapist Salary by State
About this guide: Researched and written by the TradeCareerPath Editorial Team. Our editorial team researches and sources every trade career guide using BLS, DOL, and state licensing data. We follow the editorial standards documented at /editorial-policy/.