Respiratory Therapist / Maryland
2026 data Maryland board official source

Maryland Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

PlainCredential home → About this data

Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Maryland data shows for Respiratory Therapists

Maryland's path to respiratory therapist licensure runs through 2,162 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. Maryland folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Budget $182 to get started, plus $149 at each renewal 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 Maryland

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,162 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$182
Renewal Fee
$149
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Compare & Explore

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Maryland? ▼
Maryland requires 2162 education/training hours, passing an exam (TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)), and an initial fee of $182. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Maryland? ▼
To become a licensed respiratory therapist in Maryland, you must meet the state's requirements including 2162 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Maryland licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Maryland from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for respiratory therapists: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Maryland licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Maryland require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
Yes, Maryland 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 Maryland? ▼
Licensed respiratory therapists in Maryland must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $149.

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.