2026 data Alabama board official source

Alabama Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Alabama data shows for Respiratory Therapists

Alabama sets the entry bar for respiratory therapists at 1,811 training hours and a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice). A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Alabama's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

The initial price tag is $112, and renewal costs $97 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Alabama

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
1,811 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$112
Renewal Fee
$97
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Alabama licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Alabama?
In Alabama, the license path calls for 1811 education/training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), and a $112 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Alabama?
Certification as a respiratory therapist in Alabama means clearing the state's checklist: 1811 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Alabama licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Alabama from another state?
For respiratory therapists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Alabama licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Alabama require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing?
Background screening is part of the respiratory therapist licensing process in Alabama. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Respiratory Therapist in Alabama?
To stay licensed as a respiratory therapist in Alabama, plan on 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $97.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites