Respiratory Therapist / Florida
2026 data Florida board official source

Florida Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Florida data shows for Respiratory Therapists

Florida's path to respiratory therapist licensure runs through 2,122 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Florida folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $174, with renewal running $143 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 24 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, respiratory therapists should know: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Florida

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,122 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$174
Renewal Fee
$143
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Respiratory Therapist All Florida licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Florida licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Florida? ▼
In Florida, the license path calls for 2122 education/training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), and a $174 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Florida? ▼
Florida licenses respiratory therapists who complete its requirements (2122 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Florida licensing board.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Florida 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 Florida licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Florida require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for respiratory therapist licensing in Florida. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Respiratory Therapist in Florida? ▼
To stay licensed as a respiratory therapist in Florida, plan on 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $143.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.