Respiratory Therapist / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Illinois data shows for Respiratory Therapists

Illinois sets the entry bar for respiratory therapists at 2,419 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 Illinois's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $234, with renewal running $188 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.

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

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,419 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$234
Renewal Fee
$188
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 Illinois licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Illinois licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Illinois? ▼
Illinois requires 2419 education/training hours, passing an exam (TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)), and an initial fee of $234. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Illinois? ▼
Illinois licenses respiratory therapists who complete its requirements (2419 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Illinois licensing board.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Illinois from another state? ▼
Respiratory Therapist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Illinois licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Illinois require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
Yes, Illinois requires a criminal background check as part of the respiratory therapist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Respiratory Therapist in Illinois? ▼
Licensed respiratory therapists in Illinois must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $188.

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.