Respiratory Therapist / Massachusetts
2026 data Massachusetts board official source

Massachusetts Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

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

Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Massachusetts data shows for Respiratory Therapists

To practice as a respiratory therapist in Massachusetts, the state licensing board requires 2,135 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice) examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Massachusetts's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $177, with renewal running $145 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Massachusetts

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,135 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$177
Renewal Fee
$145
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Massachusetts licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires 2135 education/training hours, passing an exam (TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)), and an initial fee of $177. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Massachusetts?
To become a licensed respiratory therapist in Massachusetts, you must meet the state's requirements including 2135 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Massachusetts licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Massachusetts from another state?
Massachusetts has reciprocity provisions: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Massachusetts licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Massachusetts require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing?
Yes, Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
Licensed respiratory therapists in Massachusetts must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $145.

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

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