Respiratory Therapist / Massachusetts
2026 data Massachusetts board official source

Massachusetts Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Massachusetts data shows for Respiratory Therapists

Massachusetts sets the entry bar for respiratory therapists at 2,135 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 Massachusetts's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Budget $177 to get started, plus $145 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For respiratory therapists, the reciprocity picture is: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

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

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Compare all states for Respiratory Therapist All Massachusetts licenses
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's requirements cover 2135 hours of education or training, the TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice) exam, and an initial fee of $177. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Massachusetts? ▼
Massachusetts licenses respiratory therapists who complete its requirements (2135 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Massachusetts licensing board.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Massachusetts require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the respiratory therapist licensing process in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts? ▼
Massachusetts ties continued respiratory therapist licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $145 renewal fee.

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.