Respiratory Therapist / North Dakota
2026 data North Dakota board official source

North Dakota Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the North Dakota data shows for Respiratory Therapists

North Dakota's path to respiratory therapist licensure runs through 1,608 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. North Dakota folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $72, with renewal running $66 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.

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

Licensing Requirements in North Dakota

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
1,608 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$72
Renewal Fee
$66
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Dakota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in North Dakota?
In North Dakota, the license path calls for 1608 education/training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), and a $72 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in North Dakota?
North Dakota licenses respiratory therapists who complete its requirements (1608 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the North Dakota licensing board.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to North Dakota from another state?
Reciprocity for respiratory therapists nationally works like this: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into North Dakota. Verify the specifics with the North Dakota licensing board.
Does North Dakota require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing?
Background screening is part of the respiratory therapist licensing process in North Dakota. 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 North Dakota?
Licensed respiratory therapists in North Dakota must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $66.

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